ODWIRA FESTIVAL
The Odwira Festival is celebrated by the people of Akropong-Akuapim, Aburi, Larteh and Mamfi in the Eastern Region. This festival is celebrated in most Akwapim towns during the months of September and October.
The Akuapem Odwira festival was initiated by the 19th Okuapimhene of Akropong, Nana Addo Dankwa I (1811-1835) and was first celebrated in October 1826. It’s significance is to celebrate their victory over the invincible Ashanti army during the historic battle of Katamansu near Dodowa in 1826 and also to cleanse themselves and ask for protection from their gods.
Odwira is a time of spiritual cleansing, when the peoples Okuapeman, and all who celebrate, present themselves anew and pray for protection. Traditionally, the timing of the festival also coincides with the harvest season when there is abundant food; during which time the people give thanks to the Ancestors. Being a Yam Festival, gratitude for the harvest is especially expressed in the “feeding the ancestors”.
28 August
Adaebutuw
A ban on noise making begins. We believe this is a time when we give the ancestors and the gods a rest. There is no noise making this period. Adaebutuw officially happens with a ceremony at the Palace
09 October
Adaebue
In this period we allow for noise making and start the festive mood. Official celebrations are organized at the palace.
26 October
Health Walk
On this occasion the town comes together and walk all in the interest of creating togetherness
28 October
Lighting of the Fire
An occasion where we light the festival fire not to be turned of till after the festival. Its done at the Palace.
27 October
Adaebue
Is the 40the day on the traditional calendar and its considered a new year. So we sit and talk about family a prepare for the next new year of the calender month
29 October
Mourning of the Dead
An occasion for wearing dark colours in remembrance of our dead
30 October
Feeding of the Gods
The day a Lamb is sacrificed to feed the stool and our ancestors
28 October
Lighting of the Fire
An occasion where we light the festival fire not to be turned of till after the festival. Its done at the Palace.
2 November
Grandfather Durbar of Chiefs
The day of the durbar is the day Chiefs from all over sit in state
27 October
Adaebue
Is the 40the day on the traditional calendar and its considered a new year. So we sit and talk about family a prepare for the next new year of the calender month
1 November
Otoobour sits in State
An occasion for wearing dark colours in remembrance of our dead
3 November
Thanks giving Service
There is a service that day to thank the Almighty for granting us mercies for the celebrations