Culinary Festivals in Mauritius: A Food Lover's Guide

Mauritius, a tropical island known for its lush beaches and diverse heritage, is also a haven for food lovers. Beyond scenic landscapes and turquoise waters lies a vibrant culinary scene celebrated through a variety of food festivals and cultural feasts. These events bring together locals and tourists to savor traditional recipes, innovative street food, and exotic flavors that reflect the island’s Indian, Creole, Chinese, and French influences.

Here’s your guide to Mauritius’ top culinary festivals and how to make the most of them on your next trip.

1. Mauritius Street Food Festival

Location: Port Louis, Rose Hill, or rotating towns
When: Annually (usually in May or September)
Cost: Free entry; food ranges $1–$5

A paradise for casual eaters, the Mauritius Street Food Festival brings together top street food vendors from across the island. You’ll find:

• Dholl puri and faratas
• Boulettes (Chinese dumplings)
• Gâteaux piments (chili fritters)
• Alouda (sweet basil milk drink)

This festival also includes live music, cooking contests, and tasting tours—perfect for food lovers on the go.

2. Moka Trail Food & Culture Festival

Location: Moka District
When: October (in conjunction with the Moka Trail run)
Cost: $5–$10 for entry; food available separately

After a scenic hike or trail run, participants and spectators can unwind with local delicacies, sugarcane juice, and traditional Creole meals. The event celebrates healthy living with a Mauritian twist, including vegan and vegetarian stalls.

3. International Kreol Festival (Festival International Kreol)

Location: Multiple locations across Mauritius (usually Mahébourg or Port Louis)
When: November
Cost: Free or ticketed events ($5–$20)

This cultural celebration of Creole identity is one of Mauritius’ biggest festivals. Along with dance and music, it features:

• Food fairs serving rougaille, vindaye, and cari
• Creole food competitions
• Community feasts and village markets

It’s a full immersion into Mauritian Creole flavors and lifestyle.

4. Sweets and Savories Festival

Location: Ebene or Bagatelle Mall
When: Seasonal (before Diwali or Eid)
Cost: Free entry

This festival showcases Mauritius’ diverse dessert culture with stalls of:

• Barfi, ladoos, jalebi (Indian sweets)
• Gâteaux coco (coconut treats)
• Gâteaux patates and banana tarts

It’s an ideal event for sampling handmade sweets and pastries, often prepared fresh on-site.

5. Mauritius Gourmet Experience

Location: Luxury resorts like Constance Belle Mare Plage
When: November
Cost: $$$ (part of resort package or ticketed events, $100+)

An exclusive affair for fine dining lovers, this high-end culinary festival features:

• Celebrity chefs from around the world
• Gourmet tasting menus
• Mauritian wine and rum pairings
• Masterclasses on Creole fusion cuisine

If you’re looking for an elevated gastronomic adventure, this is it.

6. Traditional Village Food Fairs (Foire de Village)

Location: Rotates through local villages
When: Monthly or during community holidays
Cost: Free or donation-based

These small-scale fairs are a hidden gem. They offer:

• Homemade pickles and chutneys
• Palm heart salads
• Fresh coconut-based dishes
• Family-run food stalls with secret recipes

Perfect for an authentic local dining experience away from the tourist buzz.

Tips for Travelers & Foodies

• Go early to beat the crowds and try fresh dishes.
• Bring cash—most vendors don’t accept cards.
• Ask about cooking classes—some festivals include demo sessions.
• Document the experience—locals are happy to share their stories.
• Check Facebook pages or the Mauritius Tourism Board website for festival dates.

Mauritius’ food festivals are more than just events—they’re vibrant windows into the island’s soul. Whether you're savoring street snacks in Port Louis, indulging in artisanal sweets before Diwali, or attending gourmet tastings with world-class chefs, every bite tells a story of heritage, fusion, and island pride. These festivals connect people through food, music, and culture, offering unforgettable memories for every kind of traveler.

Want to time your trip with Mauritius’ most mouthwatering events? Let Hi DMC create a custom travel experience around the island’s top culinary festivals. From hidden village fairs to luxury gourmet galas, we’ll make sure you taste Mauritius at its best.

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