The 8th edition of the Dary festival is scheduled to take place from December 19, 2026, to January 3, 2027, at the Place de la Nation in N'Djamena, Chad. The announcement was made on November 5 by Abdoulaye Ousmane Babalé, Secretary General of the Ministry of Tourism Development, Culture, and Handicrafts, during a press conference to launch preparations for the event.
This year's festival, themed "Our Cultures, Our Strength, Our Future," aims to bring together the country's provinces to showcase their traditions, artistic expressions, craftsmanship, and gastronomic wealth. The Dary festival has become a significant event in Chad, celebrating the country's cultural diversity. According to Abdoulaye Ousmane Babalé, it provides a platform for communities to meet and promote their cultural heritage.
The festival also seeks to strengthen social cohesion and promote dialogue among the population. Over the years, it has grown in popularity, with the previous edition attracting over 250,000 visitors. For the 8th edition, organizers have planned a diverse program, including performances, cultural discoveries, children's activities, youth events, craft exhibitions, food stalls, and meetings between economic actors.
The festival will offer opportunities for artisans, restaurateurs, and exhibitors to showcase their products, share their expertise, and expand their customer base. Businesses and economic operators will also be able to establish contacts and develop partnerships. Tourists and expatriates will have the chance to discover the cultural richness of Chad's provinces in one place.
Beyond its cultural significance, the Dary festival aims to generate revenue, support local initiatives, and pass on cultural heritage to younger generations. According to Abdoulaye Ousmane Babalé, the festival makes culture a bridge between communities, promoting peace and coexistence through the sharing of cultural diversity.
The launch of preparations marks the beginning of a mobilization effort involving various stakeholders. Provincial authorities will be involved in selecting and preparing their delegations, while artists, artisans, restaurateurs, associations, and partners will also be engaged. Organizers will communicate the different stages of preparations and participation modalities progressively.
The 8th edition of the Dary festival promises to be an exciting event, showcasing Chad's rich cultural heritage and providing a platform for communities to come together. With its diverse program and inclusive approach, the festival is expected to attract a large audience, both locally and internationally.
Key points
- The 8th edition of the Dary festival will take place from December 19, 2026, to January 3, 2027, in N'Djamena, Chad.
- The festival will feature a diverse program, including performances, cultural discoveries, and craft exhibitions.
- The event aims to promote cultural diversity, social cohesion, and economic development in Chad.
