Important events in life are marked by special rites & rituals. Child naming, puberty initiations, marriage & death are marked by family ceremonies while seasonal festivals bring a whole people or clan together in spectacular fashion.

A common feature is the belief in the Supreme Being in life after death & in the nearness of dead ancestors.Festivals also recall past events & consecrate a new season with confidence & hope.

Many festivals include thrilling durbars of chiefs when tribal leaders & Queen Mothers move in procession in decorated palanquins, shaded by traditional umbrellas & supported by drummers & warriors discharging ancient muskets.

In Ashanti, the Adae & Akwasidae festivals vividly bring the splendour of the Asante kingdom to life, when the Asantehene (King), adorned in all his gold regalia comes out to receive the homage of his people. The Asantehene's dancers, praise-singers & horn-blowers surround the King & his procession in a never-to-be-forgotten spectacle. The dates of many festivals are determined by traditional calendars, often decided close to the event. It is best to ask the Ghana Tourist Board for the exact dates of the festival closer to the time.