Zanzibar is mostly Muslim,
which means you might be here for either the holy fasting period of Ramadan or
Eid celebrations (known locally as sikukuu, ‘great day’). If you are here during Ramadan, don’t think of this as a negative – it is a quiet, special time
on the island and if you are friendly and respectful you might be invited to a
special iftari dinner in a local home! We can help advise you which restaurants
and bars are open for business – generally it’s a good time to be on the beach,
where there are fewer restrictions. Avoid eating and drinking on the streets,
and spend your money in local shops where you can as Zanzibaris are saving up
for the feast time of Eid.
If you are here during Eid,
you will be part of a great celebration. Small kids are dressed up in their
best outfits and families promenade at special festival grounds. It is also a
great time to be at Forodhani Gardens, Stone Town’s waterfront food market.
There are also Christian and
Hindu communities and even a small number of Zoroastrians. On the coasts, rasta
culture is very popular, and Jamaican and other Caribbean music is big in the
local beach bars. On Bob Marley day there are always plenty of parties!
Music is a rich part of more
traditional Zanzibar culture also. Styles such as Egyptian-influenced taarab
are immensely popular in town, and live music is one of the best things about
staying there. You can go to see local legends such as Culture Music Club and
Bi Kidude at rehearsal or in performance at atmospheric venues such as the Old
Fort or Mtoni Palace.
