New yam festival 2019
The New Yam Festival! It's a significant cultural event in Nigeria, particularly in the Igbo region. Here's some information about the 2019 edition:
Date: The 2019 New Yam Festival was held on September 14, 2019.
Location: The festival was held in various locations across Nigeria, with the main event taking place in Awka, the capital city of Anambra State.
Purpose: The New Yam Festival, also known as the Iri Ji, is a traditional celebration that marks the beginning of the yam harvest season. It's a time to give thanks to the gods for the yam crop, which is a staple food in Igbo culture.
Activities: The festival featured various activities, including:
- Traditional dances and music performances
- Cultural displays and exhibitions
- Food and drink stalls offering local delicacies, including yam-based dishes
- A yam festival queen competition
- A traditional wrestling competition
- A cultural parade and procession
Highlights: Some of the highlights of the 2019 New Yam Festival included:
- The presence of traditional rulers, including the Obi of Onitsha and the Obi of Awka
- A special performance by the Igbo cultural troupe, "The Igbo Cultural Group"
- A yam-themed fashion show featuring traditional and modern outfits
- A food festival with a variety of yam-based dishes and other local delicacies
Significance: The New Yam Festival is an important cultural event that promotes Igbo heritage and traditions. It's a time for families and communities to come together, celebrate their cultural identity, and give thanks for the blessings of the yam harvest.
I hope this information helps!