ICSN Iri-Ji (New Yam) Festival 2012

The Iri-ji (New Yam) festival is the celebration of the culmination of a work cycle and the beginning of another. It is a time of thanksgiving to God for making the farm yields possible and praying for good yields next planting season.

It is one of the most significant festivals amongst the Igbo tribe in Nigeria and is celebrated in all corners of the globe.

Highlights of the events includes:

- A variety of delicious African foods will be served - Rice, Yam, Meat and Fish dishes will be served.

- Yam auctions, masquerades and cultural presentation to capture the essence of the festival

- Tradition play and Traditional dance by the ICSN Dance School students

- Live music throughout the night by Kelechi Ify and dance until the early hours, with the DJ playing the finest in Afrobeats, RnB, Funky House and Hip Hop
Dress code: All guests are encouraged to wear a traditional outfit.

This much anticipated event has been run successfully for the past 9 years. Last years event attracted over 500 attendees. This years event will be bigger and better than ever!!

WHAT IS IRI-JI ABOUT?

Yam is the most important food crop in Igboland. Evidence of this is borne by the cultural significance attached to Iri-ji in Igbo land.

The traditional Igbo society is mainly agrarian. Emphasis is placed on farming and the cultivation of sufficient food to last until the next food harvest. Special emphasis is placed on yam cultivation. The traditional Igbo man takes pride in showing off his yam barn neatly stacked with yam tubers from top to bottom. It signifies wealth and success.

In the days of old, a common question asked by a bride’s father when a young man signifies his intention to marry his daughter is “how big is your yam barn”? A big yam barn means the man is hardworking and can take care of his daughter.

The Iri-ji (new yam) festival was described by Odumegwu- Ojukwu (erstwhile Biafran Leader) as the “culmination of a work cycle and the beginning of another.” It is a time of thanksgiving to God for making the farm yields possible and praying for good yields next planting season.

The Iri-ji festival is celebrated at different times within the various Igbo communities, varying from August until October every year.

For more info and Tickets:

Call:07940224313