Nigeria is a country known for its vibrant culture and rich traditions. One of the best ways to experience this is by attending the various festivals that take place throughout the year. In August, there are several exciting festivals happening in Nigeria that showcase the diversity and beauty of the Nigerian culture. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, these festivals are a must-visit. In this article, we will explore some of the best festivals happening in Nigeria this August.
Eager to see our travel itinerary?
I know you do.
Let’s ride!
Secure your local trip with our Travel Safeguard Insurance
1. Leboku Festival – Cross River State
History and Significance
Leboku Festival is celebrated by the people of Ugep in Yakurr LGA of Cross River state. It’s held annually to appease the goddess of fertility and purification ‘Ekoi Leboku’.
The festival commemorates the new Yam harvest with cultural performances like music and dance.
Activities and Highlights
- Public parade of engaged maidens.
- Wrestling contest and cultural dances.
- Procession of the “Etangala” masquerade.
- Colorful costumes and new yam delicacies.
- Beauty contest and marriage rites.
2. Osun-Osogbo Festival – Osun State
History and Significance
Osun-Osogbo festival is an annual event celebrated in Osogbo, Osun State. Dedicated to the river goddess Osun, the indigenes believe that the festival bring blessings and fertility.
The fourteen-day festival culminates with the Arugba (votary maid) leading a massive procession from the Ataoja’s palace (town’s King) to the main Osun shrine where rituals and libations are performed.
The festival is a combination of traditional and religious practices.
Activities and Highlights
- Grand procession to the Osun Sacred Grove.
- Traditional rituals and prayers at the river.
- Cultural performances like music, dance, and drama.
- Art exhibitions showcasing local talent.
3. Iriji Mbaise Festival – Imo State
History and Significance
Celebrated by the Mbaise people of Imo state, Iriji festival marks the end of a yam farming cycle and the beginning of a new farming season.
The event celebrates the yam as the king of crops and showcases the cultural heritage of the Mbaise/Igbo people.
The hosting rights of the event rotates annually among the three Local Government Areas of Aboh Mbaise, Ahiazu Mbaise, and Ezinihitte Mbaise.
Activities and Highlights
- Traditional kolanut breaking ceremony
- Artistic Yam barn exhibition and musicals
- Feasting and eating of the new Yam (Ji ahuru n’oku)
- Thanksgiving to the ancestors of the land
- Abigbo dance and Ekpe display
4. August Women’s Meeting – All Eastern States
History and Significance
The annual August meeting is a massive gathering of Igbo women for the purpose of fostering entrepreneurship, peace, community development, and cultural enhancement.
Founded in 1965 as an initiative of the Catholic Women’s Organisation (CWO) in Onitsha, the August meeting lasts four days and attracts participants from home and abroad.
Activities and Highlights
- Massive homecoming of women to their matrimonial communities for the four days event.
- Stylish apparel and jewelry on display
- Colorful parade and traditional dances.
- Entrepreneurial support and community development.
5. Badagry Festival – Lagos State
History and Significance
The Badagry Festival features an artistic display of cultural dancers, drummers, black diaspora returnees, and masquerades.
Organized by the African Renaissance Foundation (AFEFO), the festival commemorates the significance of Badagry town during the slave trade era.
Activities and Highlights
- Slave trade abolition remembrance day
- Arts and crafts festival
- Nature and water sports activities
- Football competition
Conclusion
Attending festivals in Nigeria is a great way to connect with the rich culture and traditions of the country. In August, the Leboku Festival, Osun-Osogbo Festival, Iriji Mbaise, August Women’s Meeting, and Badagry Festival offer unique experiences that should not be missed. Whether you’re interested in traditional rituals, cultural performances, or colorful parades, these festivals in Nigeria have something for everyone. So mark your calendars and get ready to celebrate Nigerian culture at its finest!
While at that, remember to secure your trip with our Travel Safeguard Insurance which protects you against unforeseen road and air perils. The policy provides adequate travel insurance protection and compensation packages for passengers traveling within the borders of Nigeria. This comes in the form of cash sum compensation to the passengers/next of kins in case of an accident, or loss of the passenger’s checked-in baggage.
To learn more about our travel safeguard insurance offerings:
Visit: cornerstone.com.ng | Call: 07086216957 | or Email: brand@cornerstone.com.ng
Read: 6 Best Nigerian Cities to Celebrate Eid ul-Adha Holiday