Not-to-be-missed events

Every year, the carnival lights up Nouméa’s city centre from Place Bir Hakeim to Place des Cocotiers, featuring floats, colourful costumes, music, dance, and a magnificent fireworks display that enchants over 20,000 people.

Every year, the fair takes place on one of the three Loyalty Islands (Maré, Lifou and Ouvéa). In 2024, Ouvéa, in the Nyimëhë tribe, will be the venue for an immersion in Kanak culture! The flavours of the islands will be showcased at a large local market, where you can taste and buy a wide range of fresh local produce. Competitions, games and events are organised throughout the weekend, including a fashion show, election of the Misses, singing and dancing shows, hikes, tours, canoe races and other water-based activities.

One of New Caledonia’s most famous agricultural fairs, the Foire de Koumac et du Nord takes place over 3 days in the town of the same name. Highly acclaimed by the country’s breeders, producers and farmers, the event attracts over 15,000 visitors. It’s the perfect opportunity to plan a trip to the Far North and immerse yourself in the world of the Broussards (French cowboys) of Western New Caledonia!

What better place to celebrate the beach than Lifou, the largest of the Loyalty Islands? The Luengöni tribe, with one of the most beautiful stretches of sand on the island, is an ideal location for this convivial event. On the agenda: musical entertainment, film screenings, local art and food. The festival is organised around the Loyalty Islands Triathlon. Numerous sporting activities complete the event: beach volleyball, swimming, scuba diving, beach soccer…

Every year, the Loyalty Island of Maré celebrates the avocado and… the wajuyu – or snapper – over a colourful weekend. It’s an opportunity to discover the island in a whole new light, with Kanak customary ceremonies, tastings of this famous fish, fishing demonstrations and sightseeing tours organised by the locals. Take advantage of the festival to try out tribal hospitality and taste the famous bougna!

Another popular event with Caledonians is the Beef Festival “Fête du bœuf” in Païta, which takes place over a weekend at the end of the year. It’s a great opportunity for young and old to discover local arts and crafts, especially leatherwork, and to sample beef and venison dishes, as well as farm-fresh produce and fun events such as the rodeo! Hosted on the farm or in a gîte, you’ll soon discover the traditions of New Caledonia’s stockmen!

Come and join us in Maré, specifically in the Eni tribe, for a celebration of the coastal festival! It’s a unique opportunity to explore and relish fresh seafood, enjoy lobster with the locals, and engage in conversations about the customs and everyday life of the Kanak tribe.

Experience a tropical Christmas in a picturesque setting! Each year, the Nouméa Town Hall goes above and beyond to revive the enchantment of Christmas. Starting from mid-December, the heart of the city and its waterfront areas adorn themselves with their most splendid Christmas decorations and come alive with the festive sounds of Christmas performances, including carol singing, storytelling, and Santa Claus attractions. It’s a guarantee of fantastic family enjoyment!