Colors of Papeete - traditions, festivals, mentality and lifestyle

The resort of Papeete experiences the heaviest tourist traffic in the period of ethnic holidays and festivals as there is no better way to learn the local culture and take part in unusual entertaining events. The Heiva festival starts in the second part of June. This bright and impressive ethnic fest lasts for two weeks and is dedicated to ethnic Tahitian dancing. The best dancing groups of the island take part in the festival. Each year the streets of the city are filled with grand dance marches and performances.

The main symbol of the festival is bright magnificent costumes which the participants of the fest specially prepare for the show. The preparation to the festival takes up to several months as its program is rather diverse and rich. Apart from unforgettable dance shows the guests of the festival may attend different sport competitions and even take part in some of them. Different cultural and gastronomy shows, kids’ performances as well as grand sales on the local markets have turned to an essential part of the ethnic festival.

The main exhibition hall of Papeete presents artworks of renowned artists from different islands of French Polynesia. The visitors of the exhibition have a unique chance to buy the artworks which they like most. The main goods sold on the local markets are still crafts: dainty handmade embroidery, amazing wickerwork and accessories as well as original wood articles. The same attractive and interesting event of the Papeete resort is the International Tourism Day which is celebrated in the second part of September. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

In spite of its name the holiday lasts for a week and encompasses great sport competitions, music, artistic and gastronomy events and holidays as well. Right after the end of the International Tourism Day another great festival starts on Tahiti island being the Tahiti Carnival. The festival is held almost in all cities of the island. Papeete is the place where tourists can take part in grand festive marches, enjoy the splendor of the festive costumes of the local folks and buy the same splendorous costumes for themselves in numerous boutiques and shops. The resort of Papeete is filled with unique atmosphere of fest all the year round.