New yam festival in enugu state
The New Yam Festival! A significant cultural event in Enugu State, Nigeria. Here's some information about the festival:
What is the New Yam Festival?
The New Yam Festival, also known as the Iri Ji, is a traditional festival celebrated by the Igbo people of Enugu State, Nigeria. The festival marks the beginning of the yam harvest season and is a significant cultural event in the state.
When is the festival held?
The New Yam Festival is usually held in September or October, depending on the yam harvest season.
Significance of the festival
The festival is significant because it marks the end of the dry season and the beginning of the yam harvest season. Yam is a staple food in Enugu State, and the festival is a celebration of the hard work and dedication of farmers who toil to produce this important crop.
Preparations for the festival
Preparations for the festival begin weeks in advance. The festival is marked by various activities, including:
- Cleaning of the palace and other public places
- Preparation of traditional dishes, such as pounded yam and soup
- Decoration of the palace and streets with colorful fabrics and decorations
- Traditional music and dance performances
- Procession of traditional leaders and dignitaries
Highlights of the festival
Some of the highlights of the festival include:
- The traditional yam cutting ceremony, where the first yam is cut and presented to the traditional ruler
- The presentation of gifts to the traditional ruler by dignitaries and visitors
- Traditional music and dance performances, including the famous Igbo drumming and dancing
- A grand procession of traditional leaders and dignitaries through the streets of Enugu
- A feast of traditional dishes, including pounded yam and soup
Conclusion
The New Yam Festival is a significant cultural event in Enugu State, Nigeria, and is a celebration of the hard work and dedication of farmers who produce the staple food of the region. The festival is a time for traditional leaders and dignitaries to come together and celebrate the harvest season, and is a significant part of the cultural heritage of the Igbo people.