The Naa Gbewaa 2023 Damba Festival is a lively and culturally significant event celebrated annually by the Dagbon people. In 2023, this beloved festival promises an extraordinary lineup of activities that will immerse both locals and tourists in the vibrant traditions of the region. From age-old customs to modern entertainment, let’s take a closer look at the exciting schedule for the 2023 Damba Festival.
read more: Your Ultimate Tourist Guide to Damba Festival 2023 in Ghana
Activity Line-Up for Naa Gbewaa 2023 Damba Festival
Day 1: September 26th – Shinkafa Gahimbu
- Time: 10:00 am
- Location: Palace
We begin with the Shinkafa Gahimbu, a captivating ceremony where rice is traditionally pounded, symbolizing unity and cooperation among the Dagbon people.
Day 2: September 27th – Moli Damba (Somo Damba)
- Time: 10:00 am
- Location: Palace
On the second day, the Moli Damba, also known as Somo Damba, takes center stage. This captivating cultural dance performance showcases the grace and artistry of Dagbon’s dancers. Read into detail the rituals that happen on this day (https://dagbonkingdom.com/damba-festival)
Day 2: September 27th – Gala Matches
- Time: 3:30 pm
- Location: AstroTurf
Later in the day, sports enthusiasts can enjoy thrilling Gala matches, where local teams compete with passion and sportsmanship.
Day 3: September 28th – Clean-up Exercise (DAYA)
- Time: 7:30 am
- Location: Yendi Township
Join the community in a meaningful clean-up exercise (DAYA) to contribute to the cleanliness and beauty of Yendi Township.
Day 3: September 28th – Cooking Competition
- Time: 11:30 am
- Location: Palace
The culinary traditions of Dagbon come to life in a cooking competition where delectable flavors are on full display.
Day 3: September 28th – Gala Matches
- Time: 3:30 pm
- Location: AstroTurf
The excitement continues with more gala matches to satisfy the football enthusiasts among us.
Day 4: September 29th – Gala Matches
- Time: 3:30 pm
- Location: AstroTurf
For those who can’t get enough of football action, more Gala Matches await on the fourth day of the festival.
Day 5: September 30th – Quiz & Cultural Troops (Lucky Star Academy)
- Time: 10:00 am
- Location: Palace
Challenge your mind with a lively Quiz competition and be enchanted by the mesmerizing performances of the Cultural Troops from Lucky Star Academy.
Day 5: September 30th – Simpa Dance
- Time: 3:30 pm
- Location: Palace
Experience the rhythm and energy of the Simpa Dance, a traditional Dagbon dance form that is bound to leave you enthralled.
Day 5: September 30th – Tag of Peace (Ladies)
- Time: 3:30 pm
- Location: Palace
Ladies come together for the Tag of Peace, promoting harmony and unity among women in a beautiful cultural display.
Day 5: September 30th – Gala Matches
- Time: 3:30 pm
- Location: AstroTurf
Football fans, rejoice! More thrilling Gala Matches are in store for you.
Day 6: October 1st – Horse Riding Competition
- Time: 10:00 am
- Location: Dagbon States
Witness the grace and skill of horse riders in the Horse Riding Competition, a fascinating display of equestrian talent.
Day 6: October 1st – Tora/Nahbehu Dance
- Time: 4:00 pm
- Location: Palace
The Tora/Nahbehu Dance takes the stage, offering a captivating glimpse into the vibrant culture and traditions of the Dagbon people.
Day 6: October 1st – Gala Matches (Group A Winners)
- Time: 3:30 pm
- Location: AstroTurf
Cheer on the victorious teams from Group A as they compete for glory in the Gala Matches.
Day 7: October 2nd – Shinkafa Gahimbu
- Time: 10:00 am
- Location: Palace
Experience the unity and collaboration once more with the Shinkafa Gahimbu ceremony.
Day 7: October 2nd – Peace Music Concert
- Time: 4:00 pm
- Location: Palace
End your day on a melodious note with the Peace Music Concert, featuring enchanting tunes and meaningful lyrics.
Day 7: October 2nd – Gala Matches (Group B Winners)
- Time: 3:30 pm
- Location: AstroTurf
The best teams from Group B compete for supremacy in the Gala Matches.
Day 8: October 3rd – Circumambulation of Cow
- Time: 10:00 am
- Location: Palace
Participate in the sacred and time-honored tradition of Circumambulation of Cow, an essential ritual for the Dagbon people.
Day 8: October 3rd – Cooking Competition
- Time: 11:00 am
- Location: Palace
Savor the delightful flavors of Dagbon once more in the Cooking Competition, where culinary talents shine.
Day 8: October 3rd – Drama and Cultural Dance (Lucky Star Academy)
- Time: 11:30 am
- Location: Palace
Be captivated by enthralling drama and cultural dances performed by the talented artists of Lucky Star Academy.
Day 8: October 3rd – Naa Damba – Grand Durbar
- Time: 2:00 pm
- Location: Palace
The grand finale of the festival, the Naa Damba Grand Durbar, features majestic displays of culture and tradition that will leave a lasting impression.
Day 8: October 3rd – Peace Music Concert (2nd Batch)
- Time: 8:00 pm
- Location: Palace
Conclude your day with the soothing melodies of the second batch of the Peace Music Concert.
Day 9: October 4th – Bieli Kulisi
- Time: 4:00 pm
- Location: Palace
Wrap up your unforgettable journey through the Naa Gbewaa 2023 Damba Festival with Bieli Kulisi, a mesmerizing cultural performance that will leave you in awe.
The Naa Gbewaa 2023 Damba Festival offers a captivating blend of tradition and modernity, uniting the Dagbon people and inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the rich cultural tapestry of the region. From sacred rituals to thrilling sports events and cultural showcases, this festival provides a diverse range of experiences that celebrate the heritage and vitality of Dagbon. Don’t miss the opportunity to be part of this spectacular cultural extravaganza!
