Discover Tahiti culture

By Hannah Edensor

The islands of Tahiti are full of sandy beaches, sunsets and sundowners, but there is more to the tropical paradise than meets the eye.

To discover the diverse culture of Tahiti, you first must discover the ways in which these traditions are expressed, and there’s no better way to do that than to check out some annual specialities.

Here are the top cultural events you’ll find in this beautiful wonderland.

Heiva Tu’aro Ma’ohi

July 2015

Located in the Gardens of the Museum of Tahiti and Her Islands, the “Heiva” festivities happen around July every year. The event is centred around the “Tu’aro Ma’ohi” traditional sports, a strong part of the islands’ cultural heritage.

Athletes from the five archipelagos gather to demonstrate their skills and strength by competing in javelin throwing, coconut peeling, stone lifting, coconut tree climbing. Spectators can also enjoy the gardens of the museum, which boasts great views on the lagoon and the gorgeous sunsets.

Polynesia Tatau Tattoo Convention

The official tattoo festival of Polynesia is organised by the Association of Artists Tattooists Polynesia, and is an annual cultural event set up by tattoo artists for tattoo artists and the public.

The premise of the festival is to promote, protect and value in all respects the practice of Polynesian tattoo, and unite artists and professional tattooists in French Polynesia.

It’s also an excellent opportunity to witness the cultural tradition and expressions of heritage through artworks and tattoos of locals.

Pacific International Documentary film festival

Established in 2004 on a founding idea from Wallès Kotra, FIFO immediately gained a high level of public interest. The exploration into Tahitian culture through film and documentary rapidly attracted directors from Oceania and from all over the world, who recognised this event as an opportunity to take a look at the region.

The two key elements to its immediate success were the authenticity and diversity of the topics each film covered, unveiling an insight into true Tahitian culture.

Other events are organised for the public and professionals around this documentary festival like the Oceanian Television Conference, Digital Encounters, the Oceanian Fiction Night, practical training workshops, and more recently, the Oceania Pitch.

Mister Tahiti

We’ve saved the best for last – which could only mean one thing – Mister Tahiti. Check out these champions from 2012…

Advertise with us

Email the Travel Weekly team at traveldesk@travelweekly.com.au

culture Discover events french polynesia mister tahiti tahiti tattoo