Festivals & Events in Tunis

Practical travel guide for Tunis, Tunisia

Festivals & Events in Tunis

Annual Events & Festivals

Major Festivals

Carthage International Festival (July-August): Tunisia's premier cultural event featuring world-class musicians, theater, dance, and cinema at the ancient Roman Theater of Carthage. Performances from Arab, African, and international artists.

Tunis International Book Fair (March/April): Major literary event attracting publishers and authors from across the Arab world and Mediterranean.

Medina Festival (Spring/Summer): Cultural celebrations within the historic Medina featuring traditional music, crafts demonstrations, and street performances.

Jazz à Carthage (Autumn): International jazz festival at Carthage archaeological sites.

National Holidays

  • New Year's Day: January 1
  • Revolution and Youth Day: January 14 (commemorates 2011 Jasmine Revolution)
  • Independence Day: March 20 (from France, 1956)
  • Martyrs' Day: April 9
  • Labour Day: May 1
  • Republic Day: July 25
  • Women's Day: August 13
  • Evacuation Day: October 15 (last French troops left, 1963)

Islamic Holidays (Dates vary by lunar calendar)

  • Eid al-Fitr: 3-day celebration ending Ramadan
  • Eid al-Adha: 4-day Festival of Sacrifice
  • Islamic New Year (Muharram)
  • Prophet's Birthday (Mawlid)
  • Ramadan: Month of fasting (business hours change, restaurants close during day)

Tip: During national holidays and religious festivals, museums and attractions may have reduced hours or close. Banks and government offices close. However, festivals create vibrant street atmosphere and special cultural experiences.

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