Ghat Festival is the largest festival in Libya and has been running since 1994. It usually takes place in the end of the year around December because of the nice weather as well as being the peak of tourism period where tourists have their holidays. Ghat festival shows a mixture of Arab and African traditions however mainly Tuareg traditons who inhabit the city of Ghat. The festival have many musical events as well as camel races known as (Mahari). It also includes a traditional market where people exhibit their hand made traditional products that range from clothes, shoes, jewellery and homeware. It is also a great opportunity to explore the mind-blowing scenes and beauty of the Sahara nearby as Ghat is bordered by the Akakus mountains and beautiful dunes.
After 2011, locals faced an issue with lack of finance from both the government and oil companies who used to sponsor the festival. However, the locals always tried to keep the festival going despite shortage on finance, security and tourism as they believe it is a celebration of their culture.