IRI-JI (NEW YAM) FESTIVAL 2026

Igbo drums, yam feast, and vibrant dance—embrace harvest joy at IRI-JI Festival, Nova Scotia’s all-ages celebration of culture.
About this Event

Celebrate the abundance of a new harvest and the vibrancy of Igbo heritage at Nova Scotia’s annual Iri-Ji (New Yam) Festival—Saturday, 15 August 2026,12:00 PM–6:00 PM, at Tremont Plateau Park, 57 Eliza Ritchie Cres, Halifax . Rooted in centuries-old tradition, this open-air gathering blends gratitude, storytelling, and the universal language of food, music, and dance.

What awaits you:

• Opening blessings—land acknowledgment, prayers, and dual national anthems set a respectful, inclusive tone before the symbolic breaking of kola-nut and the first slice of the new yam .
• A sensory feast—sample yam-focused delicacies like ji mmanu (yam with palm oil) and ji akpurakpu mmiri (yam porridge) alongside sizzling barbecue and vegetarian options from local vendors .
• Live cultural showcase—fashion parades, Ogene drumming, women’s and children’s dance troupes, masquerade theatrics, and a mass “Dance! Dance!! Dance!!!” finale invite every age and background onto the floor .
• Craft & knowledge hub—browse an Igbo art market, join mini-workshops on bead-making or basic Igbo phrases, and meet elders sharing folktales and proverbs that anchor identity across generations .
• Community connections—network with local entrepreneurs, discover youth leadership programs, and explore health-and-well-being booths that reflect the festival’s role in newcomer settlement and social integration .

Expect vibrant colours, pulsing rhythms, and the warm hospitality of a community eager to share its harvest blessings. Admission is family-friendly and wheelchair-accessible; bring lawn chairs or picnic blankets, an appetite, and an open heart for cross-cultural friendship.

🎉 Win Big & Celebrate Culture at Iri-Ji 2026! 🎉

Support the Áfàméfùnà Documentary Premiere & Iri-Ji (New Yam) Festival 2026 for a chance to WIN amazing prizes — including a WestJet Round Trip Ticket for couple valued at $4,300, a TV, a blender, and more!

📍 Open to Nova Scotia residents 19+

Every ticket you buy helps bring our cultural celebration to life!

Get yours now before they’re gone ➡ Buy Your Ticket Here: https://www.rafflebox.ca/raffle/iri-ji-2026