Dhow Countries Music Festival

About

The Dhow Countries Music Festival is East Africa's premier celebration of Swahili and Indian Ocean musical traditions, held annually in Zanzibar's enchanting Stone Town. This vibrant week-long festival brings together musicians from countries connected by historic dhow sailing routes, creating a magical cultural immersion for families. Kids will be captivated by the colorful performances, diverse rhythms, and the opportunity to experience authentic East African culture in a family-friendly festival atmosphere.

What to Expect

Families can expect multiple daily performances across various outdoor and indoor venues throughout Stone Town and Zanzibar, featuring traditional taarab music, ngoma drumming, contemporary Swahili fusion, and performances from countries including Oman, India, Madagascar, and Mozambique. The festival atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming to children, with afternoon and early evening concerts particularly suitable for families. Expect warm tropical weather, enthusiastic crowds mixing locals and international visitors, and the chance to explore Stone Town's historic streets between performances. Many concerts are free or low-cost, held in atmospheric locations like the Old Fort amphitheater, beachfront venues, and cultural centers.

Highlights for Kids

• Watching traditional ngoma drummers and dancers in colorful costumes perform high-energy routines
• Exploring the atmospheric Old Fort venue with its open-air amphitheater and historic coral stone walls
• Experiencing musical instruments from across the Indian Ocean region, from Omani ouds to Malagasy valiha
• Discovering Stone Town's winding alleys and carved wooden doors while walking between festival venues
• Participating in daytime workshops where children can learn traditional rhythms or try playing African instruments

Pro Tips for Families

1. Book accommodation in Stone Town well in advance as the festival draws international visitors; stay within walking distance of venues to easily return to your hotel for rest breaks between performances
2. Attend the free outdoor concerts at the Old Fort first to gauge your children's interest before purchasing tickets to longer indoor performances
3. Bring lightweight rain jackets as February is within Zanzibar's rainy season, though showers are typically brief; also pack sun protection, insect repellent, and hand sanitizer
4. Pick up a festival program early and plan your schedule around the family-friendly afternoon workshops and performances, which often include interactive elements where children can try instruments

Best Time to Visit

Afternoon performances between 3-6 PM are ideal for families, offering cooler temperatures and age-appropriate showtimes before evening. The festival's opening weekend typically features the most family-oriented programming and workshops. Midweek days are less crowded than weekends, making it easier to find good viewing spots with children. Avoid the late-night concerts (starting after 9 PM) unless you have older teens.

Food & Drinks

Stone Town offers excellent local dining options including kid-friendly grilled meats, fresh seafood, samosas, and tropical fruits from street vendors near festival venues. The Old Fort venue has food stalls during performances serving Zanzibari pizza (a local crepe-like specialty kids enjoy), fruit juices, and snacks. For safer options for sensitive stomachs, stick to established restaurants like Lukmaan Restaurant or 6 Degrees South, both offering familiar items alongside local cuisine. Always drink bottled water and bring refillable bottles as the tropical heat requires constant hydration. Many venues allow outside food, so consider packing familiar snacks for younger children.

Parking & Access

Stone Town's narrow historic streets are largely pedestrian-only, making cars impractical; most visitors reach venues on foot from nearby hotels or via short taxi rides (arrange returns in advance as taxis can be scarce during performances). The walking distances between venues are generally manageable (5-15 minutes) but cobblestone streets and uneven surfaces make strollers challenging—baby carriers are recommended for young children. Ferries connect Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar (2 hours) or take a 20-minute flight; book transportation well ahead during festival dates. From Zanzibar airport, taxis to Stone Town take 15-20 minutes and should be arranged through your accommodation for reliable pricing.