Traditions of Africa

There are many traditions in Africa as well. I will be explaining on African wedding and festival traditions. 

African weddings involves the whole family as it involves the combining of two people, two families, and sometimes even two communities. There are many different wedding traditions in the African continent and no two are exactly alike. However, in all the communities the bride plays a very important role and is treated with respect because she is a link between the unborn and the ancestors. 

There are many steps that take place before marriage starting at a very young age where training takes place in how to be a suitable partner. Girls will many times go to circumcision schools where women teach them what is involved in marriage, and in some ethnic groups even learn secret codes and languages so that they can communicate with other married women. In the certain tribes there are times where the elders of the village gather with the bride and give advice and gifts.

Weddings can be very elaborate, involving feasting and dancing for days within a community, they can be very simple, or they can even be performed in huge marriage ceremonies involving many different couples. 

Everywhere you go in Africa, you can experience different tribes and cultures, all having different believes and traditions. Their festivals and events will also be different.  I will explain on some of these festivals from the Southern parts of Africa.

The Morija Arts & Cultural Festival occurs each year on the first Thursday of October. The main days of the festival will be Friday through Sunday. During the four days of the festival about 40 events will take place at 8 venues in Morija which cater for all tastes in music, dance, drama and film of Africa. At the main stage, arts & crafts are displayed and sold, as well as information booths and tents marketing a wide range of products, including food and drinks of different traditions.The friendly & festive atmosphere of this festival is unique.

The National Arts Festival is one of the most important event on the South African cultural calendar, and the biggest annual celebration of the arts on the African continent.It showcases the cultural art work of the whole of Africa during this festival. It attracts visitors from all over to come and view their art. It helps to promote the cultural heritage of Africa.