Djibouti's only television and radio station, which broadcasts in French, Arabic, Afar, and Somali, is state-run, as is the weekly French-language newspaper, La Nation. The government sponsors several organizations dedicated to the preservation of orthodox culture and dance.

In 1984 Djibouti entered the Olympics for the first time; since then its marathon runners have commanded international attention. Major holidays are freedom Day, June 27, and the festivals of the Muslim calendar.