New Caledonia: Yearly events in South Province

1. The Bourail National Fair

©3a8a5896|Sud Tourisme NC - Guillaume Cassen

The Bourail national fair is an annual gig you shouldn’t miss, usually happening in Bourail in August. Known for its rich farming and bush heritage, this fair is where local communities and visitors come to meet and mingle.

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When and where: The fair, held every year in August, takes place in Bourail.
What it offers: A real taste of bush culture with farm exhibits, horse-riding competitions, and rodeos. There are also stalls selling local crafts and culinary delights.

2. The Pacific National Fair

The Pacific National Fair is a major yearly event usually held in Nouméa, in the South Province of New Caledonia. This event is particularly significant as it celebrates the cultural diversity and heritage of the Pacific countries.

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When and where: The fair usually takes place in Nouméa.
What it offers: A mix of Pacific cultures with traditional dance and music performances, as well as craft stalls and cultural workshops.

3. The Nouméa Francofolies

©Francofolies 2017 Nouméa| Sophie Vuvant / NCTPS

The annual music festival celebrating French song is also held in New Caledonia every year. Inspired by the Francofolies in La Rochelle in France, this event usually takes place in September in Nouméa, the capital of New Caledonia.

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When and where: In September in Nouméa.
What it offers: A festival celebrating French-language music, with local and international artists. The concerts take place outdoors, giving it a real party vibe.

4. The Nouméa Carnival

carnaval-place-des-cocotiers-noumea-saru-maru-nctps.jpg — ©SARU MARU / NCTPS

The Nouméa Carnival is a colourful and festive bash held in the capital of New Caledonia. Usually held in September, this carnival is one of the highlights of the year for the city, attracting large crowds of locals and tourists alike.

When and where: This annual event takes place in Nouméa, usually in September.
What it offers: A vibrant parade with floats, dancers, and musicians, showing off the cultural diversity of New Caledonia.

5. The Film Festival in La Foa

The Film Festival in La Foa is a big cultural event in New Caledonia, all about celebrating and promoting both local and international cinema. Usually held in June or July, the festival takes place in La Foa and attracts film buffs, industry professionals, and members of the public.

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When and where: As the name suggests, the festival takes place in the commune of La Foa, located in the South Province.
Time of year: The La Foa Festival is held annually, often in June or July.
What it offers:
- Focus on cinema: The La Foa Festival is mainly about cinema and audiovisual arts. It is renowned for its promotion of local and Pacific films.
- Film Competition: The festival includes a competition for short and feature-length films, giving local and regional filmmakers a platform to showcase their work.
- Screenings and Workshops: In addition to film screenings, the festival also offers workshops, debates and meetings with film professionals, providing a space for learning and sharing for film buffs.