Serving the local homemade brew

Musicians in the parade

Coiffures on the march

Getting ready for the parade

Journee de l’Artisan Beninois

Last Thursday – Saturday was spent celebrating the artisans with whom I work.  My understanding of the festival was that there would be booths and tents set up on Thursday and Friday with the culmination of the fete on Saturday.  A parade-style march was set up down the main road to the Mayor’s office (just a straight walk for probably a mile or so) in the morning followed by the usual American-styled festival of food, games, etc. 

After being here for a year, I still don’t quite have the fete-style down!  Thursday and Friday consisted of a few tents being set up at the festival grounds.  I checked in both days, and saw that only a handful of my work partners were there.  I assume everyone was saving his or her energy for the big day, Saturday!

Saturday started out slow.  Seeing that rainy season is in full swing, of course it rained Saturday morning!  Luckily, the weather cleared up enough by 11 AM and we were able to start the march then.  The artisans had a great time dancing, cheering and singing on the march…and I enjoyed watching and walking with them.

Upon arrival at the mayor’s office/festival grounds, representatives of the Artisan’s association said a few words, followed by a few words from the mayor.  The fete really got started immediately following, including drinking Tchouk (local brewed beer) and eating pork.  The young “musicians” walked around banging drums and trumpeting at attendees until they received a little money.  Pretty entertaining, as long as they weren’t playing for me!

Good Friday hike to the Jesus statue

Carrying water on my head!

Burkina Faso FESPACO (film festival)

Spring Break

I know it has been awhile since really updating...but I have had a busy few months. Since February, I ended up making two more trips to Cotonou and one to Parakou for the annual GAD (gender and development) Dinner/Dance. Once I get my pictures loaded, I will post them!

With Easter coming up, the schools are all on vacation for 10 days. It sounds like most people take vacation during this time as well, something like Spring break. It is definitely hot season now, which means mango (the only saving grace from the heat)! We have had a few rains and when I return from vacation, the rainy season will be starting.