The New Yam Festival of the Igbo people (known as Orureshi in Idoma, or Iwa ji, Iri ji, Ike ji, or Otute depending on dialect) is an annual cultural festival by the Igbo people that is held at the end of the rainy season in early August.

Jul 25, 2024 · Yams, often called the “king of crops,” play a pivotal role in Igbo culture. They serve as more than just a dietary staple; they deeply interweave into the social, economic, and spiritual fabric of the Igbo people.

Nov 28, 2024 · The New Yam Festival, known locally as Iri ji, Iwa ji or Ike ji, holds significant cultural and spiritual importance among the Igbo people. It is a festival dedicated to giving thanks and honouring Njoku/Ifejioku, the yam deity, and Ala, the earth deity, both of whom play crucial roles in agricultural success.

Yam is the most prominent crop in the social-cultural life of Ndigbo. Yam is the most staple food of the Igbos, and the importance attributed to yam in Igboland dates back to Igbos religious belief in the supreme deity (Ahiajioku) who is regarded as the goddess of productivity.

Nov 21, 2020 · Iri ji (New yam festival) plays an important role in the lives and culture of the Igbo people. It is a cultural feast and an annual harvest festival by Ndigbo held at the end of the rainy season in various Igbo communities.

Feb 18, 2018 · The Igbo people, one of Nigeria’s largest ethnic groups, gather to celebrate the New Yam Festival, known in their language as Iwa Iji. This significant celebration, deeply rooted in agrarian culture, showcases the rich traditions of the Igbo and their strong connection to the land.

Feb 1, 2025 · Yam is an essential crop in Igbo culture, often referred to as the “king crop.” It is not just a source of food but also a symbol of wealth, hard work, and prestige. Ndi Igbo have developed an efficient way of storing yams in structures called “Ọba jị”, or yam barns.

May 30, 2023 · The primary agricultural crop and staple meal of the Igbo people, yam — known as jii — doesn’t just represent food or profit, it’s a symbol of the viability of life. To celebrate the yam, a festival is held in early August, towards the conclusion of …

Aug 25, 2022 · In Igbo land, the New Yam Festival which is called Iri ji, Iwa ji or Ike ji, depending on the dialect is an annual cultural festival by the Igbo people in Nigeria. It is usually celebrated at the end of the rainy season in early August. This article contains all you need to know about the New Yam Festival in Igbo culture.

Home is where the heart is, and for the Igbo people, home is deeply rooted in their cultural heritage. The New Yam Festival, also known as Iri Ji Ohuu, Iwaji, or Ikeji, is a sacred celebration that embodies the essence of Igbo tradition and identity.