Gambia belongs to a tropical climate, divided largely into a dry season from November to April and a rainy season from May to October. Below, we will introduce the characteristics of each season's climate along with major events and culture, while relating it to the four seasons of Japan.
Spring (March to May)
Climate Characteristics
- It is very dry at the end of the dry season, with Harmattan (a northern wind carrying dust) remaining in March.
- Afternoon temperatures are around 35°C, with nighttime temperatures also around 25°C, maintaining high temperatures.
- Rain begins to gradually fall in May, increasing humidity.
Major Events and Culture
| Month |
Event/Culture |
Content/Relation to Climate |
| March |
Roots Homecoming Festival |
Celebrates cultural revival in coastal areas. Outdoor events take advantage of the good weather during the dry season. |
| April |
Start of Mango Season |
Harvesting and street sales become active. The high temperature leads to early ripening of fruits. |
| May |
International Jazz Festival (annually) |
Gathering of domestic and international artists. Takes advantage of the relatively stable weather before the rainy season. |
Summer (June to August)
Climate Characteristics
- Peak of the rainy season, with monthly precipitation reaching 200 to 300mm.
- Afternoon temperatures are around 30°C, with nighttime temperatures also around 25°C, leading to high humidity.
- Short, heavy rains and thunderstorms frequently occur, necessitating caution against flooding.
Major Events and Culture
| Month |
Event/Culture |
Content/Relation to Climate |
| June |
Rice Planting in Paddy Fields |
The arrival of the rainy season marks the peak of rice planting. Abundant rainfall is essential for rice fields. |
| July |
Islamic Ramadan (moving holiday) |
Start of the fasting month. Fasting becomes difficult due to high humidity and temperature during the day, but celebrations are active at night. |
| August |
Traditional Dance Festival (held regionally) |
Often held outdoors, choosing good weather days between rain periods. |
Autumn (September to November)
Climate Characteristics
- Rainfall gradually decreases towards the end of the rainy season from September to October.
- Afternoon temperatures are around 30°C, with humidity starting to decrease gradually.
- November marks the beginning of the dry season, resulting in more sunny days.
Major Events and Culture
| Month |
Event/Culture |
Content/Relation to Climate |
| September |
Peanut Harvest Festival |
Local farmers celebrate the harvest at the end of the rainy season. Outdoor events are held during the dry, hot days transitioning to the dry season. |
| October |
Start of Waterbird Observation Season |
Winter birds begin to arrive, and observation tours become active along the riverside. There is the advantage of high water level remaining from the rainy season. |
| November |
Photo and Nature Festival (annually) |
Utilizing the clear air prior to the dry season, outdoor photography sessions and exhibitions are held. |
Winter (December to February)
Climate Characteristics
- Peak of the dry season with almost no rainfall.
- Afternoon temperatures are around 30°C, dropping to around 20°C at night, making it comfortable.
- From December to January, Harmattan subsides, and the air becomes clear.
Major Events and Culture
| Month |
Event/Culture |
Content/Relation to Climate |
| December |
Christmas (Christian community) |
With many sunny days, outdoor events and markets at churches thrive. |
| January |
New Year Festival |
Outdoor parades and music events are held, taking advantage of the cool dry season climate. |
| February |
Gambia Independence Day (February 18) |
A national holiday celebrating the establishment of the republic. Ceremonies and parades take place in the comfortable climate of the dry season. |
Summary of Seasonal Events and Climate Relationship
| Season |
Climate Characteristics |
Major Event Examples |
| Spring |
High temperature and dryness at the end of the dry season |
Roots Homecoming, Mango Season |
| Summer |
High humidity and heavy rain during the rainy season |
Rice Planting, Ramadan, Traditional Dance Festival |
| Autumn |
Increase in sunny days as rainy season ends and dry season begins |
Peanut Harvest Festival, Waterbird Observation, Photo and Nature Festival |
| Winter |
Comfortable climate with peak dry season conditions |
Christmas, New Year Festival, Independence Day |
Additional Notes
- The dry season (November to April) is the peak tourist season, popular for wildlife observation and beach resorts.
- The rainy season (May to October) sees increased agricultural activity, focusing on traditional harvest and planting events.
- Due to the influence of climate change, the beginning and end of the rainy season may vary, potentially impacting farming schedules.
Seasonal events in Gambia are closely tied to the climate, shaping the timing and content of agricultural, religious, and cultural activities.
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