TITLE: Fête de la Mare

​Celebrated primarily by the Malinke people, the Fête de la Mare (Pond/Marsh Festival) coincides with the commencement of the rains in West African Guinea. The festival is celebrated in different locations, but the most prominent takes place in the village of Baro (birthplace of current Guinean president Alpha Condé). Guinea’s history, traditionally guarded by griots, upholds that the festival has existed in Guinea since at least 1600. In days preceding the festival, individual deals are made with forest spirits via sacrifice to secure marriages, healthy childbirth and bountiful harvests.

AUTHOR: Cappy Phalen (United States)