March Festivals and Events in Africa include a grueling marathon in the Sahara desert; Africa's largest film festival in Burkina Faso; a colorful spring festival in Mauritius, a guitar festival in Tunsia and a music festival in South Africa.
Find out more about when and where these festivals are happening below, and click on the headings to get to the official festival web sites.
1. 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: 19 February - 1 March (2009)
2. FESPACO - Film Festival
Fespaco
The Panafrican Film and TV Festival of Ouagadougou (FESPACO) is Africa's largest film festival. FESPACO's theme for 2009 is "African cinema: tourism and cultural heritage". The festival celebrates its 40th anniversary this year.
Where: Ougadougou, Burkina Faso
When: 28 February - 7 March (2009)
3. Cape Town Festival
Does this city ever sleep? Not in the summer apparently. The Cape Town Festival will fill every arts and culture venue in the city. Performing artists and youth from around the globe will be sharing their music, dance, poetry, comedy and theater. Where: Cape Town, South Africa
When: 20 March - 22 March (2009)
4. Holi
Holi is a Hindu festival of color celebrated in great style in Mauritius. This has always been my favorite Hindu holiday. Basically you have license to spray any passer-by with colorful dyes from head to toe. It's a wonderful way to welcome the spring. Read more about Holi ... Where: Mauritius
When: 11 March (2009)
5. Splashy Fen Music Festival
The Splashy Fen Music festival is one of South Africa's longest running festivals. Musicians and artists from all over South Africa gather for a long weekend of cultural fun. This outdoor festival is held in the beautiful Drakensberg Mountains. Where: Spashy Fen, South Africa
When: 20 - 24 March (2008)
6. The Marathon Des Sables
The Sand Marathon covers 151 miles and is run over 6 days; it's a grueling race. Set in the Moroccan desert, around 600 competitors from 30 countries take part every year. Competitors carry all their equipment themselves and cook their own meals. Most competitors run for charity. Where: Sahara Desert, Morocco
When: 26 March - 6 April (2009)
7. Mediterranean Guitar Festival
This is the 6th year for this successful Mediterranean guitar festival which features guitarists from all over the world. The festival was inspired by Tunisian fans of the legendary Django Reinhardt. Where: Tunis, Tunisia
When: March (annual)
