See below for when and where these festivals are taking place. Click on the headings to go directly to the festival web sites.
1. Africa Cup of Nations
Africa Cup of Nations is one of the continent's biggest sporting events. The soccer tournament is held every two years. Sixteen national teams made it through the preliminary stages. If you're traveling in Africa during the Cup, you'll know when the matches are being played because countries literally come to a standstill to watch or listen to the games. The next Cup of Nations will be held in 2013, hosted by South Africa.
Where: South Africa When: 19 January - 2 February (2013)
2. Festival on the Niger
The Festival sur le Niger is a cultural festival which celebrates the music and traditions of the Segou region with several well known West African artists invited as special guests.
Where: Segou, Mali
When: Due to unrest in Mali, there are no dates for 2013
3. Sauti za Busara (Sounds of Wisdom) Swahili Music Festival
Busara Music
This five-day festival showcases regional music, theatre and dance. It brings together people of all ages and backgrounds in celebration of the wealth and variety of Swahili culture. If your interested in a tour that includes the festival click here
Where: Stonetown and Kendwa Beach, Zanzibar ,Tanzania
When: 14 - 17 February (2013)
4. Cape Town Pride
One of South Africa's biggest gay events; a 10 day extravaganza celebrating gay pride and diversity. A giant parade on the second Saturday is the focal point amidst many parties, art shows and fashion shows.
Where: Cape Town, South Africa
When: 22 February - 3 March (2013)
5. FESPACO
The Panafrican Film and TV Festival of Ouagadougou (FESPACO) is Africa's largest film festival. The festival is held every two years.
.Where: Ougadougou, Burkina Faso
When: February 22 - March 2 (2013)
6. Marrakech Biennale
The Marrakech Biennale is an international contemporary arts festival, that kicks off with five days of performances, talks, debates and film screenings. The three-month long "Higher Atlas" visual arts exhibition will be based in the ruined El Badi Palace with satellite events around the city. A week-long installation involving nine African video artists called Medin-O-RAMA will also take place. More about Morocco's Festivals, and What to See and Do in Marrakech.
Where: Marrakech, Morocco
When: February - June (2014)
