If you love food and travel, Africa has some amazing festivals that are worth a journey of their own. From spicy street eats to gourmet creations, these events celebrate local culture, community and culinary talent.
Image used for illustrative purposes/Swastik Arora/Unsplash
Here are seven food festivals that promise more than just a meal.
DStv Delicious International Food and Music Festival, South Africa
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Where and when
The festival takes place at the Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit in Midrand, Gauteng, usually in September.
What to expect
This festival is a feast for all the senses. Visitors can wander between gourmet food stalls, street food vendors and wine tastings, sampling flavours from across South Africa. Music performances from top local and international artists provide the perfect soundtrack, while art installations and cooking demonstrations add another layer of entertainment. Food lovers can also attend masterclasses to learn cooking tips from celebrity chefs.
Travel tips
Make it a weekend getaway and explore Johannesburg’s cultural hotspots, such as the Apartheid Museum, Maboneng Precinct or Neighbourgoods Market. Early ticket bookings are recommended, as the festival attracts foodies from all over the country.
Harissa Festival, Tunisia
Where and when
Held in Nabeul, in Tunisia’s Cap Bon region, the festival usually takes place in October.
What to expect
The Harissa Festival is a celebration of Tunisia’s fiery signature condiment. Visitors can watch chefs prepare traditional dishes, participate in cooking demonstrations and taste a variety of harissa-infused foods. Beyond the chilli paste, the festival showcases regional recipes, handmade pastries and fresh seafood. There are competitions, workshops and cultural performances that highlight Tunisian traditions alongside the food.
Travel tips
Combine your festival visit with a trip along the Cap Bon coast, visiting local artisan workshops or the medina in nearby Nabeul. Accommodation ranges from seaside resorts to boutique guesthouses, giving visitors options to suit any travel style.
AfroGastro Festival, Ghana
Where and when
The festival is held in Accra, often in October, and brings together chefs, artists and cultural delegates from across Africa and the diaspora.
What to expect
AfroGastro is about more than food; it is a celebration of African identity and heritage through cuisine. Expect tastings of traditional dishes like jollof rice and kelewele alongside modern culinary interpretations. Visitors can attend workshops, panel discussions, and live cooking demonstrations. The festival also creates opportunities to meet chefs and food entrepreneurs shaping Africa’s culinary scene.
Travel tips
While in Accra, explore the vibrant street food scene, visit craft markets for handmade goods, and take time to see historic sites like Jamestown Lighthouse or Makola Market.
Kenya Food & Drink Festival (Kenya)
Where and when
This festival takes place in Nairobi, Kenya, at Ngong’ Road and runs for three days (for example, the 2026 edition is scheduled for 2–4 December) and showcases Kenyan and African cuisine alongside hospitality and travel‑experience elements.
What to expect
The “Tastes of Africa: Celebrating Cuisine, Culture & Community” theme reflects a broad spectrum of regional dishes, street food, fine dining, live cooking, and family and lifestyle zones. Visitors can sample Kenya’s diverse regional cuisines, explore hospitality and travel stands, and enjoy evening music and themed nights (such as “Flavours of the Coast”).
Travel tips
Use this festival as a gateway to Kenya’s rich food culture. Combine the visit with Nairobi street‑food tours, explore nearby wildlife or nature escapes (for example, a Nairobi day safari) and visit regional eateries outside the capital. Since the festival supports both local food culture and travel/hospitality, it aligns well with your “Africa Rising” and “Purpose‑Driven Travel” editorial pillars.
Bole Festival, Nigeria
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Where and when
The Bole Festival takes place in Port Harcourt, usually in mid-year.
What to expect
This festival celebrates bole, a local favourite of roasted plantain or yams served with grilled fish and spicy sauces. Visitors can watch cooking demonstrations, taste different variations of the dish, and enjoy live music from local performers. The festival also highlights local farmers and producers, connecting visitors with the source of the ingredients.
Travel tips
Take the opportunity to explore Port Harcourt’s riverside markets and sample other Nigerian street foods. Local guides can point visitors to hidden gems beyond the festival.
GTBank Food and Drink Festival, Nigeria
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Where and when
Held in Lagos, this multi-day festival started in 2016 and usually happens in May.
What to expect
One of Africa’s largest culinary events, GTBank Food and Drink Festival offers tastings, masterclasses and chef competitions. Visitors can meet food innovators, try gourmet dishes and enjoy live entertainment. The festival attracts both professionals and casual food lovers, creating a vibrant atmosphere. It also provides insights into Nigeria’s growing food industry and entrepreneurial culture.
Travel tips
Use the festival as a springboard to explore Lagos, from art galleries and markets to beaches and cultural landmarks. Book accommodation in advance, as the city fills up quickly during the festival.
Standard Bank LUJU Food and Lifestyle Festival, Eswatini
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Where and when
The festival is held in Malkerns, Eswatini, with recent editions attracting visitors from across southern Africa.
What to expect
LUJU blends food, lifestyle, music and community. Visitors can attend tasting sessions and cooking competitions and watch local artisans at work. The festival celebrates southern African culinary traditions and lifestyle, offering a unique regional perspective. There is live music and activities for families, making it an inclusive and lively event.
Travel tips
Pair your visit with a tour of Eswatini’s cultural attractions, including craft markets, wildlife reserves and scenic drives through the countryside. Local homestays or boutique lodges provide an authentic experience.
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