Observed on

Between September to November for Six Months (Every Two Years)

 

Observed by

People of Nigeria, Igbo Practioners

Country of Origin 

Nigeria

Celebrations/Customs

Costume and Mask Wearing, Drumming, Feasting, Gift-Giving, Theatrical Performance

Similar/Related to:

Halloween, Dia de los Muertos, Samhain

Key Points / Halloween Connection

- Nigerian festival celebrating the return of dead spirits and includes the wearing of plant-fiber masks and theatrical performances that reenact the farewall between the living and returning spirits

Brief Bio

The Awuru Odo festival is an ancient Igbo tradition celebrating the return of the dead spirits, known as Odo, who are believed to visit the living every two years for up to six months. During this time, men wear elaborate plant-fiber masks and costumes to represent the Odo, who are welcomed into their former homes with feasts, gift-giving, and entertainment before their departure. The festival features music, drumming, and theatrical performances that symbolize the bittersweet farewell between the living and the returning spirits.