Are you interested in news and culture from Benin? Then you won’t want to miss Vodun Days, an annual festival that celebrates the Voodoo religion and Beninese culture. This year, the festivities took place on January 10 across the country, with Ouidah as the focal point of the event.
Voodoo, often misunderstood and stereotyped, is in fact a very ancient religion which is an integral part of the life of the Beninese. The Vodun Days festival aims to promote and celebrate this rich cultural tradition.
The day began with a grand ceremony where voodoo dignitaries offered prayers and consulted oracles to predict what the year 2024 has in store for Benin. According to them, this year promises to be positive and brings good news for the country.
Meanwhile, in the streets of Ouidah, shows and activities continued throughout the day. Beninese people were able to enjoy various activities in the city’s squares, showcasing the country’s vibrant culture.
But what makes Vodun Days truly special is the presence of an international audience. Visitors from all over the world, curious to discover this fascinating spirituality and culture, traveled to Ouidah to participate in the festivities. Among them are also Afro-descendants, who come to reconnect with their roots and reconnect with the history of their ancestors.
Jean-Marie, a Haitian living in France for four years, expressed his emotion upon discovering this voodoo culture. For him, even if he does not practice this religion on a daily basis, it is important not to forget his roots and to pay homage to his ancestors. He finds it poignant to see to what extent gestures that he thought were banal are in reality deeply imbued with voodoo culture.
The day ended in style with a traditional music concert. On stage, Sagbohan Danialou, a legend of Beninese music, enchanted the audience with his captivating melodies.
Vodun Days are therefore much more than a simple religious celebration. They represent a moment when culture, spirituality and history come together to create a one-of-a-kind experience. If you have the chance to go to Benin during the next Vodun Days, do not hesitate to immerse yourself in this captivating atmosphere and discover the richness of voodoo culture.