Iri Ji (New Yam Festival)

The New Yam Festival is an annual festival observed mostly by the people of the Middle belt, South and East of Nigeria (Ariam Usaka). It is held at the end of the rainy season which is different times in different communities starting in early August to October.

Deeply rooted in ancient igbo culture,  is the belief that yam is the king of all crops.

The festival is also known as Iwa Ji,Iri Ji or Ike ji (meaning eating yam), is observed throughout West Africa, Especially in Nigeria.It symbolizes the conclusion of a harvest and the beginning of the next work cycle.In Igbo land, it ties the Igbo communities together.Yam is the first crop to be harvested and it is the most important crop.

Though particular to villages, the new yam festival can also be celebrated in faraway countries even in Europe or America; for as long as there is a high chief to bless the yam and the Igbo residents bring yam samples, including rich cultural dances and masquerades, the event is accepted.

The evening before the new yam Festival, old Yam must be consumed or discarded and on the day of the festival only dishes made out of yam is served. Palm oil is used to eat the yam.The Oldest Man in the community eats the first yam offering the yam and prayers to the gods, deities, ancestors or Prayer to God.