Celebrated annually around August, the Nnewi Afiaolu Festival, also known as the New Yam Festival, signifies the commencement of the yam harvest season. It is a time to thank the deities for a bountiful harvest and to pray for future prosperity. Highlights include:
• Iwa Ji Ceremony: The traditional breaking of the new yam, symbolizing gratitude and the start of the harvest.
• Masquerade Displays: Vibrant masquerades entertain the crowd, representing ancestral spirits and cultural tales.
• Traditional Music and Dance: Performances that reflect the community’s history and values.
The festival fosters a sense of identity and continuity among the Nnewi people.