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Ghana, West Africa is a beautiful African country popular for its rich history and amazing culture. It is one place where you would find several ethnicities coming together to celebrate life. That’s why its greatness has its roots in traditional values and local celebrations. There are a number of public holidays in the country that are observed every year by its people. These Ghana holidays not only bring in an environment of cheerfulness across streets but also teach people different values of humanity. Take a look at these top Ghana holidays and learn about their significance in the country.
Major Ghana Holidays To Look Forward To
1. Independence Day
Also famous as Ghana’s National Day, Independence Day in the country is celebrated every year on 6 March with full zeal and zest as it marks the country’s independence from the United Kingdom in the year 1957. On this day, public parades dominate the grounds and dance and music performances also take place across the nation. Visit Ghana on this public holiday and find the entire country high on patriotism and happiness. Independence Day also honours the heroes and freedom fighters who led to the liberty of the nation.
2. Eid ul-Fitr
Eid al-Fitr is often called the “Festival of Breaking the Fast”. The practice of dawn-to-dusk fasting during the holy month of Ramadan is one of the five pillars of Islam. It is definitely one of the most awaited Ghana holidays and is a celebration of pomp and show. On this day, there is a tradition of wearing new clothes and attending Mosque prayers. People also prepare traditional sweets such as a dates. As Ghana has a substantial number of Muslims, it is one of the biggest celebrations in the country.
3. Christmas Day
Christmas is a global festival but the kind of celebrations you would find in Ghana is definitely peerless. It is one of the major public holidays in the country as people celebrate the birth of Jesus on this day. Other than that, there are numerous age-old traditions that are followed in Ghana. People greet each other and indulge in gift-giving ceremonies. Also, houses are decorated and streets are adorned with colourful lights. Social gatherings, carol singing, mass prayers, feasting, and family get-together are some of the major parts of Christmas celebrations in Ghana.
4. Founder’s Day
Another Ghana holiday that brings in a joyous atmosphere across streets is Founder’s Day celebrated on August 4 every year. People observe it every year to honour all the founding fathers of Ghana. The list includes the Big Six, who predominantly led the revolution during Ghana’s independence struggle. The members of the Big Six include Edward Akufo-Addo, Joseph BaokyeDanquah, Emmanuel Obetsebi-Lamptey, William Ofori Atta and Ebenezer Ako-Adjei. On this day, people remember all the sacrifices made by their forefathers. Public lectures are also held across the nation.
5. Eid ul-Adha
Just like Eid ul-Fitr, Eid ul-Adha is a significant day in Ghana. Also called the Feast of the Sacrifice, this great festival is all about honouring the willingness of Abrahim to sacrifice his son for the almighty god. That’s why people across the Muslim community indulge in sacrificing an animal, often a goat or a sheep, and distributing its meat to the poor. Sweets and gifts are also given to the needy. Mosque prayers, family gatherings and charity are the major parts of Eid ul-Adha in Ghana, West Africa.
6. Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Day
Dr. Kwame Nkrumah was the first president of Ghana and this Memorial Day is all about remembering him and celebrating his birthday. This 21-September event aims at evoking a sense of nationalism in the locals here. Nkrumah was of high repute when it came to powerful speeches that sparked waves of patriotism amongst Ghanaians. Hence, one can find politicians and other great personalities of the country remembering him by giving speeches on a public stage.
7. Constitution Day
Constitution Day is one of the major public holidays in Ghana and is one of the greatest celebrations in the country on January 7. This is the day that marks the coming into effect of the 1992 Constitution. It is also the day when the new heads of the states take an oath and hold their respective offices. Though the public celebration on this day is meagre, you can still find official places in the country dipped in utmost decoration. The Constitution Day is also there to remind the citizens of Ghana to remain committed to their nation in the most honorable way possible.
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