Formerly known as the Gold Coast, Ghana can be considered one of the epicenters of West African culture, customs, and traditions.

Traditional festivals

Ghana marks over 70 festivals annually. The festivities fulfill a wide range of purposes from harvests, cuisine, migration, puberty, you name it. The frequent celebrations cultivate strong communal bonds among the inhabitants, fostering a rare spirit of unity of purpose. African people are known for their passion, youthful energy, and festivals. Here is a list of main Festivals in Ghana: 

February - Dzawuwu 

The Dzawuwu festival is a major event for the Agave people residing in the Volta Region. Traditionally the Agave comprises 15 clans ruled by chiefs who all answer to one paramount chief. Dzawuwu festival is held in February at the Commercial Center Dabala - the capital of the traditional administrative hierarchy. One highlight of the thanksgiving festival is the sprinkling of food to the gods. An action that symbolizes the immortalization of the ancestors who won several wars.

March - Gologo 

The Gologo festival is an event celebrated in March by the Talensis of Tong-Zuf. The tradition is marked in the Upper East Region and serves the communal belief and worship on the Nnoo shrine dedicated to the Golibgod. Traditional belief states that the deity has mystical powers over Talensi agricultural life. The community believes that the pre-harvest festival will promote a plentiful harvest if they receive favorable favor from the gods. 

April - Dipo 

The Krobo people in Ghana know how to mark their rites of passage in a unique display of traditional rendition. As part of their sacred puberty rite, this initiation rite marks the passage of maidens into adult women. The ‘Dipo’ is what constitutes the rite. Residing in Eastern Ghana, the community believes the girl is ready for marriage after undergoing this rite of passage.

May - Aboakyir 

Popularly known as the Deer hunting festival, the event is marked by people of Winneba residing in the central Ghanian area. The celebration marks the movement of the people from the ancient empire of Western Sudan. Their expedition was led by a duo of brothers accompanied by the god Otu who asked for human sacrifice from a member of the royal family. Disturbed by the severity of the price, they requested another task at which point they were to give a wild cat sacrifice. Later on, they asked for another sacrifice at which point it was decided on a bushbuck. The ceremony has been passed on to the modern age and ranks as a major ceremony in Ghana.

September - Aadegbor Festival 

The people of Osudoku, residing in the Greater Accra region hold his celebration every September to signify the unity of purpose among the tribespeople. The event strives to unite all inhabitants descending from the region, both local and those abroad.

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