National Festival Eritrea

National Festival Eritrea

Participants from all regions of the country present various cultural shows that reflect Eritrea’s diverse ethnic groups. Events include: traditional storytelling, dramas, movies, singing, traditional sports, horseracing, cultural shows, and a speaking contest. Students engage in debating, panel discussions, oratory contests, general knowledge and literature competitions. In addition to these events there are also photography displays, paintings, sculpure and handcrafts. At the culmination of the festival, awards and prizes are presented by officials. In particular a large audience is drawn to the presentation of new songs and musical dramas.
President Isaias Afwerki officially opens the annual National Eritrean Festival, held at the Expo grounds in Asmara. The ten-day celebrations and competitive festival are held in the presence of senior government officials, invited guests, and festival participants. The festival plays a significant role in fostering the unity of the Eritrean people as well as nurturing the nation’s cultural heritage by attracting more than 800,000 from all over the country and the Diaspora.