Tahiti Festivals and Events


Tahiti Tere Faati
January 26, 2013
The Tahiti Tourism office organizes this out-of-the-ordinary circle island tour aboard "le truck" (traditional Tahitian bus) for a day filled with live music and stops at various points of interest, as well as "ahima'a" a sumptuous Tahitian meal. A great day of fun! Tickets on sale at the Tahiti Tourism office in Papeete.
January Tahiti
Venus - James Cook Exhibition
December 4, 2012 - May 11, 2013
Location: Museum of Tahiti and Her Islands, Tahiti. A tribute to Captain Cook's travels to the Islands of Tahiti and the observation of his transit of Venus in 1769. Exhibition includes lectures, original prints and Polynesian antiques that recount the stories of that period. For more information: http://www.museetahiti.pf
January Tahiti
Chinese New Year
February 10-16, 2013
Location: Papeete, Tahiti. The local Chinese community celebrate the year of the "water snake" through a variety of events: parade, dances, etc...
February Tahiti
Polynesian Art Jewelry
February 7-14, 2013
Location: Former Presidency of French Polynesia, Papeete, Tahiti. Over thirty artisans presenting their best Tahitian jewelry pieces made from mother of pearl, pearls, shells, carved bones, natural fibers, etc... A fashion show orchestrated by Italian stylist Alberto V will showcase the most creative pieces. This fashion show will be held on February 8, 2013 at 7:00pm.
February Tahiti
Moorea Marathon
February 16, 2013
Location: Temae, Moorea. Ranked amongst the Top 40 Finest Exotic Marathons, The Moorea Marathon is a not-to-be missed event. A great challenge to take in a heavenly vacation destination! More information: http://eng.mooreamarathon.com
February Moorea
10th Annual FIFO - Pacific International Documentary Film Festival
February 11-17, 2013
Location: Cultural Center "Fare Tahiti Nui" in Papeete, Tahiti. A festival that brings together the region's film and television industry and promotes projects to world-renowned documentary buyers. The Pacific International Documentary Film Festival focuses on digital project where a committee selects the best documentaries. More informationt: http://en.fifo-tahiti.com
February Tahiti
Werner Bringold Photography Exhibition
February 22 - March 8, 2013
Location: Centre des Metiers d'Arts (Arts and Craft School), Papeete, Tahiti. Exhibition of works and images featuring the islands of Tahiti in the 80's from Verner Bringold, a Swiss, journalist who worked for "Les Nouvelles", one of Tahiti's newspapers for many years.
February Tahiti
3rd Annual Shell Exhibition
February 6-13, 2013
Location: Parc Bougainville, Papeete, Tahiti. Shells and jewelry made with shells will be the stars of this exhibition.
February Tahiti
INTERNATIONAL ARI'I HOE NO PAPEETE
March 1-2, 2013
Location: Mahina, Papeete and Hitia'a, Tahiti. For the first time, thanks to the Tahitian Kayak Association, Tahiti will be included in a world circuit of races organized by the International Federation of Canoe. The event will include outrigger canoe and kayaks races and stand up paddle. More information: http://www.ijspf.pf
March Tahiti
Arts & Crafts Festival
March 18-23, 2013
Location: Former Presidency of French Polynesia, Papeete, Tahiti. A new festival offering the opportunity to discover the unique arts and crafts from each of the five archipelagos of French Polynesia: Society Islands, Marquesas, Tuamotu, Austral and Gambier.
March Tahiti
Tahiti Guitar Festival
March 7-9, 2013
Location: Le Meridien Tahiti. Guitar fans and professionals gather at the Le Meridien Tahiti for 3 evenings of great music. The theme for this year's edition is: "Celtic Encounter". More information: www.tahitifestivalguitare.org
March Tahiti
TE RARA'A Weaving Exhibition
March 1-10, 2013
Location: Papeete, Tahiti. The Austral Archipelago located in the southern part of French Polynesia is known for its exceptional woven items. "Te Rara'a" exhibition will feature stunning woven hats, bags, "peue" carpets, fans, etc... Join the "mamas" for some demonstrations and a contest that will reward the most skilled.
March Tahiti
Weaving Exhbition
March 27 - April 7, 2013
Location: French Polynesia's Assembly Hall. Visitors will discover the traditional art of weaving through a variety of demonstrations and showcase of creative pieces, such as hats, fans, bags, etc... Learn all about the different weaving techniques and browse through the great selection of products from the Austral Islands.
March Tahiti
POLYNESIE 1ere VA'A RACE
TBA
Location: Tahiti - Moorea. This canoe race sponsored by "Polynesie 1ere/France Televisions" kicks-off the canoe race season in the islands of Tahiti. Paddlers will have the challenging task of crossing the channel between Tahiti and Moorea.
April Tahiti
13th Edition - Leeward Islands Handicraft Exhibition
April 1-6, 2013
Location: Vaitape, Bora Bora. Artisans from the "Raromatai" (islands of Bora Bora, Raiatea, Taha'a, Huahine and Maupiti) showcase all their arts and crafts - sculptures, woven bags and hats, "tifaifai" (Tahitian patchwork), jewelry, paintings, etc... Some great shopping to enjoy!
April Huahine
Ori Tahiti - Tahitian Dance training course
April 8-12, 2013
Location: Conservatoire Artistique de la Polynesie Francaise (Artistic Academy of French Polynesia) "Te Fare Upa Rau", Papeete, Tahiti. "Ori Tahiti" a vibrant Tahitian dance has been used by Polynesians to pass on their tales and legends and is part of the locals' daily lives. The "Ori Tahiti Training Course" has been created for foreigners from around the world who are passionate about Tahitian dance. Twice a year, beginners and experienced dancers gather to learn, improve their technique and share their common passion for Tahitian dance.
April Tahiti
15th Edition, Tifaifai Exhibition
April 25 - May 5, 2013
Location: Papeete's City Hall, Tahiti. In Tahitian, "tifaifai" means "to mend" or "to match". Tifaifai are beautiful bedspreads that originated from the patchwork style and technique. The fabric and technique were brought to the islands by the first European missionaries. The designs and "appliqué" are all hand made and usually represent nature: flowers, leaves, fruits. The "tifaifai' exhibition is a tribute to the mamas for the long hours and months of work needed to create the most original "tifaifai".
April Tahiti
Tahiti Nui Va'a
May 23-25, 2013
Location: Tahiti. The best local and international teams compete in this outrigger canoe race around the island of Tahiti. They will complete a total of 166km in 3 days, with spectacular sceneries along the way.
May Tahiti
Tahiti Pearl Regatta, 10th edition
May 7-12, 2013
Location: Raiatea, Huahine and Taha'a. The most important regatta in the South Pacific, the Tahiti Pearl Regatta celebrates its 10th anniversary. In a fun and festive atmosphere, mono-hulls or multi-hulls boats will race between Raiatea, Huahine and Taha'a. The race is held during the day and festivities each night! The Tahiti Pearl Regatta village will be set in the small town of Uturoa prior to the start of the regatta. More information: http://www.tahitipearlregatta.org.pf
May Raiatea/Tahaa
Ori Tahiti Schools' Heiva
May 23-31, 2013
Location: Toata Square, Papeete, Tahiti. "Ori Tahiti" (or Tahitian dance) is in the genes! From the moment kids can walk, they are introduced to Tahitian dance. Each year, the "Heiva" festival is a celebration of life through music and dance. The schools' Heiva sets the start of the Heiva festivities. Dance schools prepare their students for this competition that will reward the best Tahitian dance school.
May Tahiti
Taapuna Master Surfing
May 9-26, 2013
Surf competitions at the Taapuna coral reef pass in Punauuia, Tahiti. Competition in the categories of Surfing, Body-Boarding, "Drop Knee" and Stand-Up Paddling.
For more information, please contact "Taapuna Surf Club" at (689) 78.60.87 or email: taapunamastertahiti@mail.pf / www.taapunasurf.pf
May Tahiti
Tahiti Vanilla Week
June 11-15, 2013
Location: Papeete, Tahiti Tahitian vanilla is considered as one of the most fragrant one in the world. While it is mainly used in cuisine, it can also be found in some interesting jewelry pieces! Of course vanilla fragrant "monoi" (Tahitian oil) is a popular buy, also available in body lotion version, not to forget about liquors.
June Tahiti
Heiva i Bora Bora
June 29 - July 30, 2013
The annual singing, dance and traditional sports competition as well as crafts demonstrations, to be held at Moto'i Place in Vaitape, Bora Bora.

For more information, please contact "Bora Bora Tourism Committee" at +689-67-76-36 or email: info-bora-bora@mail.pf / www.borabora-tourisme.com
June Bora Bora
Heiva i Moorea
TBA
Like the "Heiva i Tahiti", this cultural event will have competition for singing and dancing groups, traditional sports team and craftmen of Moorea, in the Afareaitu district.
Contact: Heiva i Moorea Association - Mahinatea Thunot at +(689) 76-39-80 or email: mahinateathunot@gmail.com
June Moorea
Art Exhibition
June 6 - September 28, 2013
Location: Museum of Tahiti and Her Islands, Tahiti. This exhibition, co-organized by the Museum of Tahiti and Her Islands and the "Centre des Metiers d'Art" art school will feature ancient art pieces and modern work from the art school's students. Carvings, paintings, photography will be the main focus.
June Tahiti
Tahiti Music Festival
June 21, 2013
Celebrated on the symbolic date of June 21st marking the summer solstice, it is a time to celebrate for all musicians! Most hotels, restaurants and bars will host special guests and live bands for the occasion.
June Tahiti
37th edition, Marquesas Islands Fair
June 1-9, 2013
Location: Aora'i Tinihau, Pirae, Tahiti. In the Marquesas islands, art and crafts are a way of life. A true eden, these islands have it all: lush setting, abundance of fruits and fish, breathtaking views and the kindest people ever. The Marquesas islands' fair features all the "savoir-faire" of the local artists: jewelry made from beads, feathers, sculpted bones, incredible wood and stone carvings, "tapa" decorative paintings, intoxicating "umu hei" flowers and spices bouquets.
June Tahiti
Tahiti-Moorea Sailing Festival
June 28-30, 2013
Location: Tahiti and Moorea. A sailing event to promote the nautical world and the beauty of sailing in the Islands of Tahiti. Races, demonstrations, parades, handicrafts booths, folkloric shows will make each day very special. More information, http://www.standupworldtour.com
June Tahiti
Heiva Va'a i Tahiti
June 28 - July 13, 2013
Location: Papeete, Tahiti. The "heiva festival is a mjajor event in the Islands of Tahiti. Not only celebrating dance and music, the "Heiva" is a tribute to the islands' culture, traditions and way of life. The "Heiva Va'a" brings together paddlers of all ages dressed in pareos and traditional "heis" and leis for races and demonstrations in the Papeete Harbor.
June Tahiti
Heiva Rima'i
June 26 - July 21, 2013
Location: Aorai Tini Hau, Pirae, Tahiti. The "Heiva" festival celebrates the islands' culture, traditions and art. "Heiva Rimai" showcases an amazing array of products, art and crafts from the different archipelagoes: Tuamotu, Marquesas, Austral and Society Islands. There is no limit to what can be created from natural fibers, bamboo or wood, mother of pearl or shells, "tifaifai" patchwork and clothing.
June Tahiti
The Aitoman Triathlon on the Sacred Island
Date to be determined
Two kilometers swimming, 96km bike and 20km running in Uturoa, Raiatea.
For more information, please contact "Carlos Schmidt" at +689-60-24-85 or email: cs69@mail.pf
June Raiatea/Tahaa
Stand Up Paddle World Tour
June 1-9, 2013
Location: Tahiti. Established since 2009, the Stand Up Paddle World Tour is the official world championship of stand paddle surfing. Tahiti, with its world-recognized "surfing" reputation, welcomes one the stops of this competition that will be held on the West Coast of the island, in Taapuna. This sport has grown widely with participation from 15 nations.
June Tahiti
International Golf Open - Tahiti Nui
July 2-6, 2013
Location: Atimaono Golf Course, Papara, Tahiti. Professional golfers from Australia, New Zealand, Japan, the United States compete in the stunning setting of the Atimaono Golf Course. The Tahitian Federation of Golf has developed partnerships with the Australian "Professional Golf Association" to register this open in the "South Pacific Tour">
July Tahiti
Opening of the 132nd Heiva i Tahiti
July 4-20, 2013
Location: Place Toata, Papeete, Tahiti. After having been prohibited for many years by the missionaries, Tahitian dance made its big come back in the 1960's thanks to the passion and enthusiasm of teacher Madeleine Moua. "Heiva i Tahiti" is to be seen at least once when traveling to Tahiti! The entire population of the islands of Tahiti gather for weeks to pay homage and to celebrate traditional Tahitian dance, music, and song. Dance troops from the islands will compete for many coveted titles. Competition evenings are on July 4, 5, 6, 11, 12 and 13. Awards ceremony on July 18 and Laureates' evening on July 20.
July Tahiti
Heiva Tu'aro Ma'ohi
July 13-27, 2013
Location: Gardens of the Museum of Tahiti and Her Islands, Tahiti. Part of the "Heiva" festivities is the "Tu'aro Ma'ohi" traditional sports which is a strong part of the islands' cultural and heritage. Athletes from the five archipelagoes will demonstrate their skills and strength by competing in javelin throwing, coconut peeling, stone lifting, coconut tree climbing and fruit carrying races. Spectators can also enjoy the gardens of the museum, which boasts great views on the lagoon and the gorgeous sunsets.
July Tahiti
26th - Te Aito Va'a
TBA
Individual outrigger canoe race over approximately 10km (6 miles).  The top 100 qualified rowers will compete in the "Super Aito Va'a".
For more information, please contact "Charles Maitere" at +689-73-16-99 or email: cmaitere@cps.pf / www.tahiti-toavaa.com
July Tahiti
Heiva i Raromatai
TBA
The cultural event "Heiva i Raromatai" in the Society Islands will be held this year at the Maina-nui Place in Patio, Tahaa.
Traditional sports, dances and songs, arts and crafts, and more will be featured.
For more information, please email: courrier@commune-tahaa.pf or tel: +(689) 608080
July Raiatea/Tahaa
Te Vai Ari'i Marathon: The Super Aito Va'a
TBA
Three-days individual outrigger canoe races featuring the top hundred rowers qualified from the  "Te Aito Va'a" race, over distances of 5, 10, 15, 20 km (3, 6, 9 and 12 miles).
For more information, please contact "Charles Maitere" at +689-73-16-99 or email: cmaitere@cps.pf / www.tahiti-toavaa.com
August Tahiti
Air Tahiti Nui Von Zipper Trial 2013
TBA
Location: Teahupo'o, Tahiti. Local and international surfers will face some of the most powerful waves on the planet in Teahupo'o, Tahiti's mythical wave. A show worth seeing for all surf fans! The outcome of this trial determines who will enter the renowned Billabong Pro competition.
August Tahiti
BillabongTahiti Pro Surfing Tournament
TBA
Location Teahupo'o, Tahiti. Part of the World Championship Tour, the competition brings together the 48 best surfers in the world.
August Tahiti
Beach Soccer World Cup
September 18-28, 2013
Location: Place Toata, Papeete, Tahiti. After having conquered Europe, America and Asia, the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup has chosen Tahiti for this 7th edition. The 2013 World Cup brings the top-notch beach soccer festival to the Tahua Toata stadium in Tahiti as well as the first ever ever FIFA senior tournament. More information, http://www.beachsoccer.com/events?id=980191013
September Tahiti
World Tourism Day
September 27, 2013
Each year, the Tahiti Tourism office organizes a series of events and activities to commemorate the World Tourism Day. The theme for this year is "tourism and water: protecting our environment".
September All islands
Art Exhibition
October 29 - November 9, 2013
Location: Museum of Tahiti and Her Islands, Tahiti. Exhibition featuring contemporary art from the Transpacific Art Association. A perfect setting for contemporary art to meet with the islands' cultural heritage.
October Tahiti
Art Photography Association of Polynesia
October 4-19, 2013
Location: Museum of Tahiti and Her Islands, Tahiti. A showcase of the photographers association's work for all art aficionados.
October Tahiti
12th Austral Islands Exhibition
October 25 - November 9, 2013
Location: Former Presidency of French Polynesia, Papeete, Tahiti. Weaving is an art in the Austral Islands. Located in the southern part of the French Polynesia, these islands have remained unspoiled, and are known for their beautiful woven pieces, whether it is hats, bags or carpets. Artisans from the Islands of Rapa, Raivavae, Rimatara, Rurutu and Tubuai will share their technique and "savor-faire" through the exhibition and demonstrations.
October Tahiti
Marquesas Islands Exhibition
November 22 - December 8, 2013
Location: Aorai Tini Hau, Pirae, Tahiti. The Marquesas Islands are known for the symbolic art that uniquely identifies the culture and traditions of the Marquesan people. These islands, wild, mystical, and untouched islands have inspired many artists, including painter Paul Gauguin. From wood or stone carvings, beautiful "tapa" paintings, jewelry from beads and bones, and tattooing, you will discover a variety of creative art pieces. Demonstrations will be available throughout.
November Tahiti
Ori Tahiti Training Course
November 25-29, 2013
Location: Conservatoire Artistique de la Polynesie Francaise (Artistic Academy of French Polynesia) "Te Fare Upa Rau", Papeete, Tahiti. "Ori Tahiti" a vibrant Tahitian dance, has been used by Polynesians to pass on their tales and legends and is part of the locals' daily lives. The "Ori Tahiti Training Course" has been created for foreigners from around the world who are passionate about Tahitian dance. Twice a year, beginners and experienced dancers gather to learn, improve their technique and share their common passion for Tahitian dance.
November Tahiti
Tuamotu Craft Exhibition
November 22 - December 2, 2013
Location: Former Presidency of French Polynesia, Papeete, Tahiti. Exhibition will showcase the Tuamotu atolls where life revolves around the sea and its treasures. Local artisans use what has been given to them by nature to make the most beautiful shell jewelry and decorative shell items. The artisans also specialize in coconut palm weaving to make hats, bags, and plates.
November Tahiti
Hawaiki Nui Va'a
Nov. 6-8, 2013
Location: Leeward Islands. The Hawaiki Nui race has become a prominent event in the outrigger canoe world and will celebrate its 22nd edition. Over 3 days, teams from all over the world will compete in one of the toughest outrigger canoe race. The race starts in Huahine to Raiatea (Day 1), then Raiatea to Taha'a (Day 2), and lastly the most difficult and longest segment of the race, Taha'a to Bora Bora (Day 3). The Hawaiki Nui race is absolutely spectacular! More information, http://www.hawaikinuivaa.pf
November Raiatea/Tahaa
Gouwe Exhibition
November 26, 2013
Location: Museum of Tahiti and Her Islands, Tahiti. An important figure in the art world in Tahiti, Gouwe has depicted the local life and culture through his art. The exhibition is a tribute to his work and his vision of life.
November Tahiti
Ceremony 'Matarii i nia'
November 20&21, 2013
This ceremony celebrates the Pleiads and the beginning of the abundance season in the islands. It has created a revival of interest in ancient Polynesian navigation and inspired a few recent expeditions.
November Tahiti
Te Noera a te Rimai Fair
November 27 - December 24, 2013
Location: Aorai Tini Hau, Pirae, Tahiti. The last fair of the year featuring art and crafts from the 5 archipelagoes: jewelry, hats and bags, decorative items, tableware, clothing, etc..
November Tahiti
International Heiva
November 18-23, 2013
Location: Place Toata, Papeete, Tahiti. The International "Heiva" will see dance troops from all over the world compete in the home islands of the "Ori Tahiti". The best dance troop award is a highly coveted award for all dancers who actively and passionately practice the "Ori Tahiti".
November Tahiti
Open Tournament Tahiti Nui
TBA
Location: Atimaono Golf Course, Tahiti. On the beautiful setting of the Atimaono Golf course, this competition welcomes pro foreign teams as well as local players.
December Tahiti
Tiare Festival
Dec. 6-7, 2013
This event is a special tribute to Tahiti's national flower, the "tiare tahiti".
There will be various events related to the tiare flower, such as competitive decorations in businesses and public places in Papeete.
For more information, please email: gsft@mail.pf
www.gsft.pf
December Tahiti
The Bora Bora Liquid Festival
TBA
The event, which was established in 1999, is held each year in December on the island of Bora Bora.  Over a period of four days, amateur and professional athletes gather on Bora Bora stunning beaches to take part in a unique liquid festival.

The Bora Bora Liquid Festival is not a typical sporting event.  In fact, it is much more than a sporting event.  With long-distance races in va'a hoe (Polynesian single-man outrigger canoe) surf-ski, stand-up paddling and swimming, as well as family relays, evening entertainment with movies, concerts and social gatherings, this festival appeals to anyone fond of the liquid element.

Some of the world's best water-based athletes make the journey to put their physical and mental endurance to the test.

For more information, please visit: www.kainaluxt.com
December Bora Bora
Bora Bora End-of-the year Exhibition
December 16-23, 2013
Location: Vaitape, Bora Bora. Local artists of Bora Bora display their crafts: wood carvings, baskets, Polynesian design patchwork called "tifaifai", clothing, jewelry, carvings, decorative items, paintings, etc... The perfect occasion to get your Christmas gifts and souvenirs!
December Bora Bora
Tifaifai Exhibition
December 23-28, 2013
Location: Papeari, Tahiti. "Tifaifai" mean "to mend" or "to match". Tifaifai are beautiful bedspreads that originated from the patchwork style and technique. The fabric and technique were brought to the islands by the first European missionaries. The designs and "appliqué" are all hand made and usually represent nature: flowers, leaves, fruits. The "mamas" will showcase their bright and colorful creations.
December Tahiti
Handicraft Exhibition
December 18-24, 2013
Location: Former Presidency of French Polynesia, Tahiti. Exhibition of local, Tahitian artisans art and crafts featuring their creativity through beautiful jewelry, woven bags, hats, clothing, engravings with Tahitian symbols, cosmetics, and tattoing.
December Tahiti
Christmas and New Year's Eve (St Sylvester) Celebrations
Hotels and restaurants offer special menus and entertainment both days. Merry Christmas!
December All islands



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