Festival (6/24)

Today is a very exciting time for our town. For the past 3 weeks we have been under a period of silence. No loud music, no loud drumming, no yelling and no staying out late. Today is the first day of festival which brings to an end this time of silence and celebrates those who have gone before us. Every person in town collected a large piece of firewood and during the day made their way to the chief’s palace. This offering of firewood is to show respect to the chief and our ancestors. In the past, all of this wood was used to make a huge bonfire, I’m not sure if that still happens today.

The mood outside the palace was pure energy. All the kids had their firewood and the rhythmic drumming eminated from the palace ahead. The door swung open and for a short moment the drums were drowned out with the high pitched cheers of children. Waving their firewood people started pouring in and in time it was our turn.

Children waiting to enter the Chief's Palace

Stephen (A current PCV and one of my math teachers) using his firewood as a cane.

Me, Kevin, and Matt (PCV who hosted me for vision quest)

Most people walked in, dropped their firewood, and walked out. As respected foreigners we were invited to greet the chief and his elders which we had met a few days ago.

Chris greeting the Chief and elders (Chief is far right in blue)

We were given seats and allowed to watch the ceremony for some time. Drums were played, people laughed and told stories, and fufu was pounded. Not sure why, but culturally, tonight everyone will eat fufu.

Score. I love fufu.

Arjun and Kevin talking to Diana (A current PCV) with drums in the background