The Festival Populaire et International des Musiquées Traditionnelles was created in 1996 to satisfy the need for a major event dedicated to traditional Congolese music. It is known locally as Feux de Brazza (“Lights of Brazza”) due to its opening ceremony, in which a major personality - usually the Minister of Culture - lights up bonfires (the “lights”) that symbolise the ancestral traditions.
Over a whole week (usually in August), Brazzaville is home to a programme of traditional Congolese music and dance, with performances by artists from all over the country. This is a great opportunity to get to know the richness, diversity and energy of Congolese culture!
Practical Information The festival takes place every 2 years, alternating with FESPAM (Festival Panafricain de Musique, an international African music festival).