Morondava will be the site of the national Lohataona 2026 celebration from September 14-18, showcasing the Menabe region's heritage.
The national Lohataona 2026 celebration, also known as the Malagasy New Year, will take place in Morondava, Menabe region, from September 14 to 18, 2026. Organizers announced the event aims to unite Malagasy people, emphasizing solidarity and national unity. This year's celebration is set to be distinct, with a special focus on the historical, cultural, traditional, and tourism assets of the Menabe region.
The festival will serve as an opportunity for Malagasy people from different regions to meet, share customs, and pass down cultural values and heritage to younger generations. Representatives from various regions across Madagascar, including government and traditional authorities, cultural actors, youth, civil society organizations, and national and international partners, are expected to attend.
Activities planned include a cultural parade, a gathering of traditional elders, communal feasts, cultural conferences and discussions, handicraft exhibitions, and artistic performances. The objective is to establish Morondava as a central hub for Malagasy culture and fellowship by highlighting regional diversity, with culture as a treasure and national unity as strength.
Why it mattersThe Lohataona 2026 festival in Morondava will bring together people from various regions to share customs and cultural heritage, fostering national unity.
Read in the ASJ desk →