Patina & Ritz-Carlton Maldives Unveil Fari Festival 2025

Rooted in the visionary spirit of the Fari Islands—where “Fari,” meaning “beautiful” in Dhivehi, embodies both natural splendor and cultural richness—The Ritz-Carlton Maldives and Patina Maldives are proud to unveil the full programme for the inaugural Fari Islands Festival, set to take place from 19–22 September 2025.

This pioneering four-day event brings together a global constellation of creatives, thought leaders, and “Fari Voices”—regional changemakers transforming their communities—to cultivate a celebration unlike any other in the Maldives. Across two distinctive resorts, guests will experience a powerful convergence of artistry, intention, and consciousness.

A Festival Shaped by Five Pillars of Purpose

Guided by five immersive pillars—Culinary Artistry, Sonic Immersion, Nature Amplified, Body, Mind & Soul, and Creative Artistry—the Fari Islands Festival reflects a deep commitment to nature, craftsmanship, and cultural connection. It offers more than curated experiences; it’s a platform for meaningful engagement and positive impact.

Fari Islands: A Living Tapestry of Artistry and Connection

This year’s programme features standout collaborations from across the worlds of wellness, conservation, design, and gastronomy:

Nature Amplified

Gibbs Kuguru, National Geographic Explorer and marine biologist, joins forces with the Olive Ridley Project, a leading sea turtle conservation organisation. Guests are invited to participate in ocean excursions and support marine rehabilitation efforts, fostering a connection between leisure and legacy.

Culinary & Mixology Artistry

Renowned nutritionist Rosemary Ferguson curates two wellness-forward dining experiences—at Wok Society (Patina) and La Locanda (The Ritz-Carlton)—focusing on balance and nourishment for the final months of the year. Festival-goers can also enjoy her exclusive juices at Fari Marina Village.

Meanwhile, Danico Bar, one of Paris’s most celebrated cocktail venues and a fixture on the World’s 50 Best Bars list, takes over the islands’ bars with evening showcases and an interactive masterclass featuring their signature Chicha Morada.

Body, Mind & Soul

Luxury skincare brand Allies of Skin, beloved by celebrities like Hailey Bieber and Victoria Beckham, brings rejuvenation to the festival through exclusive wellness sessions. Founder Nicolas Travis and expert therapist Leyen Tran present transformative facial treatments incorporating massage and reiki healing.

Creative Artistry

Singapore's STPI Creative Workshop & Gallery hosts hands-on artistic workshops designed to encourage self-expression through tactile, beginner-friendly mediums—allowing guests to create keepsakes rooted in the spirit of the islands.

A Daily Journey of Inspiration and Insight

Each morning begins with Bamford’s grounding wellness rituals, preparing guests for a day of mindful discovery. Activities span marine exploration, creative sessions, wellness lunches, and conversations with regional trailblazers from the Fari Voices collective.

Whether sipping curated juices or attending a masterclass, guests are encouraged to engage deeply with their surroundings and leave with more than memories—a renewed sense of purpose and awareness.

Evenings of Immersion and Reflection

As the sun sets, the islands come alive with music, poetry, and celebration:

Opening Night: Acclaimed poet and artist Rupi Kaur delivers a heartfelt performance at Skyspace Amarta, the immersive light installation by James Turrell.

Night Two: A DJ set by Kim Turnbull transforms EAU Bar into a vibrant soundscape, accompanied by bar takeovers from Danico and Nutmeg & Clove.

Closing Night: FKJ (French Kiwi Juice) headlines the Fari Marina Fiesta, delivering his signature blend of soul, jazz, and electronic music before a final starlit performance by Rupi Kaur.

Where Two Worlds Flow as One

As a destination, the Fari Islands redefine the concept of Maldivian luxury through their multi-resort archipelago model, blending the artistic innovation of Patina with the timeless elegance of The Ritz-Carlton. Together, they create a space where guests are invited to feel, reflect, and connect.

Backing this vision is Fari Campus, the Maldives’ first purpose-built island for hospitality staff housing, training, and community development. This initiative invests in Maldivian talent through education and opportunity—demonstrating the Fari Islands’ commitment to nurturing people alongside place.

“At The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, we celebrate beauty in detail and depth,” says Oscar Postma, General Manager. “The Fari Islands Festival brings that vision to life through creativity and cultural connection.”

“This event is more than a festival,” adds Anthony Gill, General Manager of Patina Maldives. “It’s a call to explore new ideas, move with intention, and return home inspired to make a difference.”

More Than a Festival—A Celebration of People, Place, and Possibility

The Fari Islands Festival 2025 is not simply a series of events, but a movement that celebrates culture, sustainability, and human connection. It invites guests to play an active role in preserving what makes the Maldives extraordinary, while embracing a more conscious and connected way of experiencing the world.

Book your Fari Islands Festival escape at The Ritz-Carlton Maldives or Patina Maldives.

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