By Adeola Ogunlade
All is set as Benin celebrates the festival of Vodun on January 9th and 10th, 2024, in Ouidah, a journey, from the city center to the seaside, will immerse participants in the rhythms, songs, dances, and symbols of Vodun.
The Vodun Festival, traditionally celebrated every January 10th in Benin, has undergone a transformation through a new gathering dedicated to the arts, culture and Vodun spirituality: Vodun Days. The celebrations will take place within the historic city and on the beach, near the famous Door of No Return
It will feature highlights and festivities which include Performances at the Vodun squares and convents in the heart of the historic city of Ouidah, the Vodun Days Village with numerous stands showcasing crafts, food, and entertainment, the artistic stage with an evening concert and show on the beach, the January 10 Ceremony in the presence of high dignitaries, featuring the ritual parade of faithful Vodun convents.
From Vodun Hounve dances to the appearances of Zangbetos and Egungun, including parades honoring deities such as Yaoïtcha or Vodun Mami Dan, to open-air concerts on the seashore featuring renowned international and Beninese artists: Ouidah, the City-Museum, will offer a unique cultural and spiritual experience.
Benin, the beating heart of Vodun
Benin, the beating heart of vodun Benin is on a journey of rediscovery and it aims to share with the world the richness of arts and culture connected to Vodun. Major projects are on the horizon, including the construction of an International Vodun Museum, the establishment of the Vodun Convents Route and the organization of Vodun Days. Acknowledging the vitality and significance of its cultural and spiritual heritage, Benin emphasizes this shared legacy with many countries and cultures worldwide, asserting itself as the birthplace of Vodun.