Local Festivals and Events in Accra, Ghana

Accra, the vibrant capital city of Ghana, is a melting pot of diverse cultures and traditions, which are beautifully reflected in its various festivals and events. Here’s an overview of some notable local celebrations that you might want to experience when visiting this fascinating city.

1. Homowo Festival (August - September)

Homowo is a traditional festival celebrated by the Ga people in Accra, primarily during August and September. The word “Homowo” translates to ‘hooting at hunger.’ This festival honors the ancestors and marks the end of a period of famine that once affected the Ga community. The celebration includes drumming, dancing, and feasting on special dishes like kpokporo (a spicy cassava dish) and kenkey (fermented corn dough).

2. Akwasidae Festival (Every 42 days at the Great Osu Mantse’s Palace)

Akwasidae is a sacred day in the Ga traditional calendar, observed every 42 days at the Osu Mantse’s Palace. The festival brings together chiefs, elders, and the general public to pay respects and offer thanks to their ancestors. During Akwasidae, the streets of Osu are adorned with colorful Kente cloths, and you can witness traditional dances, drumming, and libations poured to honor the gods.

3. Chalewote Festival (August)

Chalewote is an annual arts festival that takes place in Jamestown, Accra, during August. The event showcases local and international artists through music performances, visual art exhibitions, street art, and cultural workshops. The festival aims to promote creativity, foster cultural exchange, and celebrate the vibrant artistic scene of Ghana.

4. Galen Centre Kente Festival (July)

The annual Galen Centre Kente Festival takes place in July, celebrating one of Ghana’s most iconic textiles – Kente cloth. This event showcases various Kente designs from different regions across Ghana, as well as fashion shows, music performances, and workshops where you can learn more about the history and production process of Kente.

5. Independence Day (March 6)

Ghana’s Independence Day is celebrated on March 6, commemorating the country’s independence from British rule in 1957. You can witness grand parades, cultural performances, and speeches by political leaders throughout Accra during this national holiday. The atmosphere is lively, with a strong sense of pride and unity among Ghanaian citizens.

Exploring these local festivals and events in Accra will provide you with an authentic taste of Ghanaian culture, traditions, and hospitality. So don’t hesitate to immerse yourself in the vibrant celebrations that this remarkable city has to offer!