5 Traditional Rites Celebrated During Isese Day in Lagos

Isese Day, celebrated in Lagos, is a vibrant festival dedicated to promoting and preserving Yoruba cultural heritage. 

It provides an avenue for Lagosians, especially the younger generation, to reconnect with their roots and appreciate the rich tapestry of customs, art, and folklore. 

The celebration is marked by numerous traditional rites, each with its own significance and role in keeping Yoruba culture alive.

1. Ritual Libation

One of the most sacred practices during Isese Day is the pouring of libations. Elders and chiefs honour ancestors and deities by offering water, palm wine, and other symbolic items. 

This rite serves to show respect for past generations, seek blessings, and reinforce spiritual connections between the living and the ancestral realm. It reminds participants of their heritage and the continuity of Yoruba traditions.

2. Traditional Drumming and Dancing

Drumming and dancing are central to the celebration, with performers using talking drums, bata, and sekere to convey stories and messages. Each rhythm has a unique purpose; some honour deities, others narrate historical events or celebrate communal achievements. 

The dances often involve coordinated movements passed down through generations, allowing participants to experience the storytelling power of Yoruba culture firsthand.

3. Cultural Costume Display

During Isese Day, participants don traditional attire that reflects Yoruba history and identity. Chiefs and elders wear ceremonial robes, while women showcase Aso-Oke fabrics and elaborate beads. 

This visual display not only celebrates fashion heritage but also educates the public about the meaning behind each garment, symbol, and accessory, emphasising pride in Yoruba ancestry.

4. Divination and Oracle Consultations

Spiritual rites such as Ifa divination or oracle consultations are performed by priests and priestesses during the festival. These rituals are intended to provide guidance, offer protection, and address communal concerns. 

Visitors often observe or participate in these rites to understand Yoruba cosmology and the moral teachings embedded in traditional practices.

5. Art and Craft Exhibitions

Isese Day also features exhibitions of traditional crafts, including wood carvings, beadwork, pottery, and textile weaving. Artisans demonstrate their skills, passing down techniques and cultural narratives through their creations. 

These exhibitions serve both as entertainment and as educational tools, encouraging younger generations to engage with and preserve their heritage.