Traditionally, Hausa/Fulani tribe has a considerable number of unique norms, values, and customs inherited and passed down from generation to generation. The most important traditions found in their tribe, which festival is one them.
The Hausa/Fulani tribe is very rich in culture and diversity and is one of the largest tribes in Nigeria. The Hausa/Fulani tribe’s cultural festivals can celebrate their tradition, religion or usher in a new season. Festivals are an essential element in the retention of a people’s culture.
Many of their cultural festivals have gone global as a means of uniting Nigerians living abroad and for non-Nigerians to experience their artistic sensibilities.
Top 5 popular festivals in the Hausa/Fulani tribe
1. Argungu fishing festival
The Argungu Fishing Festival is a way of life for the people of Kebbi State. The festival preserves traditions and encourages conservation. The yearly festival takes place in February and marks the end of the agricultural season and the fishing season.
The festival is a four-day cultural event. It begins with agricultural shows, water sports demonstrations, traditional Kebbawa entertainment and ends with a spectacular fishing tournament on the Mata Fadan River.
2. Durbar festival
Durbar is an annual religious and horse festival celebrated in several Nigerian cities, including Kano, Katsina, Sokoto, Bauchi, Bida, and Zazzau. The festival signifies the end of Ramadan and coincides with the Muslim celebrations of Eid al-Adha and Eid al-Fitr.
It begins with prayers, followed by a colorful procession of the Emir and his entourage on horseback accompanied by musicians, and ends at the Emir’s palace. Durbar is organized in almost all cities in northern Nigeria and has become a significant tourist attraction. In the north of Nigeria, the practice dates back more than 200 years.
3. Jaci Festival
Jaci is a small village located in Mani LGA. It locates on a major waterway, commonly known as “Fadamar Jaci.” The former Emir of Katsina, Muhammadu Dikko, started the Jaci Fishing Festival around 1905 when he was Mani’s regional head. He became so interested that he visited it every year during the dry season for fishing and hunting.
4. Sharo/Shadi festival
Sharo, which means whipping, is a festival of rituals from adolescence to adulthood. Young Fulani boys test their strength and stamina by whipping. Shocking as it may be, this is a festival that is quite cherished and celebrated by the Fulanis.
5. Kalanukwa festival
It is purely a cultural holiday celebrated in the northern part of the state. It is a kind of thanksgiving holiday observed after the harvest season (November/December).
It brings young men and women coming together and entertaining themselves in an atmosphere of peace and friendliness.
