The Best Music Festivals in Cameroon

Cameroon is a country rich in culture and musical diversity, offering a unique experience to music lovers from all over the world. Each year, the country hosts a series of captivating music festivals that celebrate local traditions and attract internationally renowned artists. If you are looking for an unforgettable musical adventure, here is a selection of the best music festivals not to be missed in Cameroon.

Douala International Music Festival

The Douala International Music Festival is one of the most anticipated events in the Cameroonian cultural calendar. Held annually in the port city of Douala, the festival highlights the richness and diversity of the local and international music scene. Over several days, festival-goers can enjoy captivating concerts, discover new talent, and participate in workshops and conferences on trends in the music industry.

One of the highlights of the festival is the eclectic line-up, which brings together artists from a variety of musical genres, from makossa to hip-hop, jazz and world music. Headliners rub shoulders with emerging artists, providing a unique platform for the discovery of new musical sensations. With its lively stages, food and craft stalls, and interactive activities, the Douala International Music Festival is a true celebration of Cameroonian culture.

When and where?

The Douala International Music Festival usually takes place in July in the city of Douala, the economic capital of Cameroon.

What to do?

• Attend concerts by local and international artists
• Attend music industry workshops and conferences
• Discover new musical talents
• Enjoy the festive and friendly atmosphere of the festival
• Taste traditional Cameroonian dishes and explore local crafts

Anoumabo Urban Music Festival (FEMUA)

The Anoumabo Urban Music Festival (FEMUA) is one of the most important events in the African music landscape. Held annually in the city of Abidjan in Côte d’Ivoire, the festival attracts renowned artists from the continent and around the world, providing a unique platform to celebrate urban music genres such as hip-hop, R&B and Afrobeat.

FEMUA stands out for its eclectic programming and commitment to social causes. In addition to captivating concerts, the festival offers workshops, conferences and awareness-raising activities on important themes such as the environment, education and entrepreneurship. This holistic approach makes FEMUA much more than just a musical event, making it a true cultural and social gathering.

When and where?

The Anoumabo Urban Music Festival (FEMUA) takes place every year in April in the city of Abidjan, Ivory Coast.

What to do?

• Attend concerts by renowned African artists
• Participate in workshops and conferences on urban music
• Discover new musical talents
• Engage in awareness raising activities on social causes
• Enjoy the festive and friendly atmosphere of the festival

Ngaoundéré International Traditional Music Festival

The Ngaoundéré International Traditional Music Festival is a unique event that celebrates the ancestral musical traditions of Cameroon. Held in the city of Ngaoundéré, located in the Adamaoua region, this festival highlights traditional musical instruments, ancestral dances and ritual songs from the country's different communities.

Over several days, festival-goers can enjoy captivating performances, participate in workshops to learn traditional instruments, and discover the stories and meanings behind these musical traditions. The festival also offers the opportunity to taste typical regional dishes and explore local crafts, providing an immersive cultural experience.

When and where?

The Ngaoundéré International Traditional Music Festival takes place every year in November in the city of Ngaoundéré, in the Adamaoua region of Cameroon.

What to do?

• Attend traditional music and dance performances
• Participate in workshops to learn traditional instruments
• Discover the stories and meanings behind musical traditions
• Taste typical dishes from the Adamaoua region
• Explore local crafts and local products

Yaounde International Jazz Festival

The Yaoundé International Jazz Festival is a must-see event for jazz lovers in Cameroon. Held every year in the capital, Yaoundé, this festival brings together internationally renowned jazz artists, offering festival-goers an exceptional musical experience.

Over several days, the festival stages host captivating performances, ranging from traditional jazz to the most contemporary forms of the genre. Festival-goers can also attend lectures, workshops and jam sessions, allowing them to deepen their knowledge and appreciation of jazz.

Beyond music, the Yaoundé International Jazz Festival also showcases Cameroonian gastronomy and crafts, offering visitors a complete immersion in the country's culture.

When and where?

The Yaoundé International Jazz Festival takes place every year in September in the city of Yaoundé, capital of Cameroon.

What to do?

• Attend internationally renowned jazz concerts
• Participate in conferences, workshops and jam sessions
• Discover the different forms of jazz, from traditional to contemporary
• Taste Cameroonian gastronomic dishes
• Explore local crafts and local products

Whether you are a music enthusiast, a festival lover or simply curious to discover Cameroonian culture, these musical events will offer you an unforgettable experience. Get ready to vibrate to the rhythm of the best music from Cameroon!