Janjanbureh Kankurang Festival Programme – 2026
Day 1 – Friday, 23rd January 2026
5:00 – 7:00 PM : Taste of The Gambia
A culinary showcase of Gambian cuisine with traditional music at the festival grounds.
7:00 -7:30 PM:Official Opening Ceremony
Opening speeches (Minister, EU Representative, Governor, National Assembly Member and Chief
Formal launch of the festival at the main grounds.
7:30 -10:PM:Cultural Performance Night
An evening of rich cultural expression featuring:
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* Traditional entertainment by Kanyaleng women and the Riti Fula group
* Storytelling sessions celebrating heritage
* Flex Fusion with a high-energy, choreographed performance
* Janjanbureh Theatre Group dramatising local tales
* A vibrant Jamba Kankurang dance performance
Day 2– Saturday, 24th January 2026
10:00 AM - 1:00 PM : Hands on Art &Crafts Workshops
Interactive experiences for visitors at the festival grounds, including
:Tie-dye making *Weaving * Basketry
* Sand painting• *Traditional hair braiding
10:00 AM – 9:00 PM :Made in The Gambia Trade Fair
Exhibition and sale of locally made products, Gambian handicrafts and Gambian cuisine
4:00 -6;PM:Festival Parade
A colourful procession through Janjanbureh town with music dance and cultural; displays
8:00 -10:PM: Main Masquerade Festival
The grand highlight of the festival; vibrant masquerade performances and traditional cultural
showcases at the main grounds.
12:00 MIDNIGHT – Night Entertainment with ST
Day 3– Sunday, 25th January 2026
10:00AM-1:PM: Community Marathon
A marathon uniting locals, athletes, and visitors in celebration of fitness, health, and community.
4:00 PM -6:PM: Kayak Race on the River Gambia
An exciting water sports competition on the majestic River Gambia,
serving as the spectacular festival finale.
Participation fee for the festival is D1500 per international participant