Major Events & Festivals in Kandahār, Kandahār, Afghanistan

1. Eid al-Fitr Festival

Celebrated at the end of Ramadan, a month of fasting. Large gatherings for prayer and family feasts.

Religious Significance: A time to reflect and strengthen faith.
Community Gathering: An opportunity to meet and celebrate with locals.
Food and Shopping: Experience Afghan cuisine and shop for traditional goods.

An annual music festival in August showcasing Pashto and Afghan musicians.

Cultural festival celebrating Afghan art, music, and heritage at Naqsh-e-Rostam archaeological site.

Biennial air show featuring military and civilian aircraft displays.

Military Heritage: Witness aerial demonstrations by modern and historic aircraft.
Technology Showcase: Get an up-close look at cutting-edge aviation technology.
Military Camaraderie: Meet and interact with military personnel from around the world.

Celebration of Afghan New Year in March, marked by gatherings, traditional music, and food.

New Beginnings: Witness the start of a new year according to the Solar Hijri calendar.
Cultural Exchange: Engage with locals in their cultural practices and traditions.
Food and Shopping: Taste traditional Afghan dishes and shop for local crafts.

Annual marathon event in Kandahar, attracting runners from across the region.

Physical Challenge: Test your endurance amidst the scenic landscapes of Kandahar.
Community Engagement: Join locals and runners in celebrating health and fitness.
Cultural Immersion: Experience Afghan culture during the race and festivities.

A traditional summer festival featuring music, dance, and local cuisine.

Cultural Experience: Discover the richness of Pashtun culture.
Community Gathering: Join locals in celebrating summer and strengthening community bonds.
Food and Entertainment: Enjoy traditional Afghan food and music.

A traditional polo tournament played with a goatskin ball on horseback.

A lively marketplace offering traditional Afghan goods and food.

A festival promoting unity and solidarity among the people of Kandahar.

Community Cohesion: Experience the importance of community in Afghan society.
Cultural Exchange: Engage with locals and learn about their values.
Entertainment and Food: Enjoy music, dance, and traditional Afghan cuisine.

A week-long celebration of Afghanistan's rich cultural heritage.

Cultural Exploration: Learn about the diverse aspects of Afghan culture.
Community Engagement: Join locals in celebrating their heritage and traditions.
Entertainment and Food: Enjoy music, dance, and traditional Afghan cuisine.

Celebrated during the Hajj pilgrimage, marks sacrifice and unity.

Religious Significance: A time to remember the prophet Ibrahim's faith.
Community Gathering: An opportunity to meet and celebrate with locals.
Food and Animal Sacrifice: Experience the significance of animal sacrifice during this festival.

Mourning procession commemorating the martyrdom of Imam Hussein.

Religious Significance: A time to remember the sacrifice and devotion of Imam Hussein.
Community Gathering: An opportunity to join locals in mourning and remembrance.
Cultural Understanding: Gain insight into the deep-rooted Shia traditions of Afghanistan.

Celebrating Afghanistan's independence on August 19th, featuring parades and cultural events.

National Pride: Witness the patriotic spirit of Afghans.
Community Engagement: Join locals in celebrating their nation's independence.
Cultural Exchange: Learn about Afghan history and traditions.

Celebrating the longest night of the year with music, dance, and bonfires.

Community Gathering: An opportunity to meet and celebrate with locals.
Cultural Experience: Discover the unique traditions surrounding this winter festival.
Entertainment and Food: Enjoy music, dance, and traditional Afghan cuisine.