The big cultural event in the Marquesas Islands!

The Festival des îles Marquises, Matavaa o te Henua Enana, is one of the most important cultural events on the Marquesas archipelago in French Polynesia. There are two festival formats:

• intermediate editions, organized every two years,

• and more exceptional grand editions, organized every four years, mobilizing expanded delegations and even more ambitious programming.

From December 15 to 19, 2025, Ua Huka will host the Matavaa, following that of Nuku Hiva in 2023.

“HAAKĀÌÈ”: pride in being Marquesan

This edition’s theme, “HAAKĀÌÈ “, celebrates the pride of being Marquesan in all aspects of life, whether cultural, social or everyday. It highlights a strong identity, handed down from generation to generation, based on essential values: rrespect, solidarity, sharing and belonging to a community deeply rooted in its history.

This theme is a reminder that Marquesan culture is living, carried by those who practice it, pass it on and make it evolve every day.

A total immersion in Marquesan culture

The Matavaa offers a complete immersion in Marquesan traditions through:

• traditional dance performances,

• song and percussion competitions,

• ancient games,

• craft demonstrations and exhibitions(wood and bone carving, tapa, Marquesan tattooing),

• painting and sculpture exhibitions,blending heritage and contemporary creation.

Through traditional costumes, gestures, rhythms and storytelling, participants tell legends, ancestors and the sacred link to the land and ocean.

Flavors and sharing

The festival is also a celebration of sharing and conviviality. Visitors can experience Marquesan cuisine, featuring fish, tropical fruits and iconic local specialties like kaaku, prepared and passed on in a community spirit.

A primarily Marquesan event

While it attracts visitors from all over the world, the Matavaa remains above all a highlight for Marquesans. It’s a time for reunion between the islands, for passing on traditions to younger generations, and for strengthening cultural and human ties.

Transmit to spread the word

Beyond the festivities, the Marquesas Islands Festival plays an essential role in the preservation and transmission of Marquesan cultural heritage, while radiating the richness and wild beauty of this archipelago.