The Zanzibar International Film Festival, known as the Festival of the Dhow Countries, is the largest annual cultural event in East Africa and one of the major festivals on the continent. Held over two weeks in early July, it celebrates the arts and cultures of the African continent, India, Pakistan, the Gulf States, Iran, and the Indian Ocean islands.
The programme centres on an international film and video competition but extends well beyond cinema -- music, theatre, performing arts, workshops, and seminars fill venues across historic Stone Town's waterfront. A Village Panorama takes the festival out to rural communities on the island, while dedicated strands for women and children ensure broad participation. The setting alone is worth the trip: screenings under the stars in the Old Fort amphitheatre, with the dhow harbour just beyond.