By Sam Eliason, Mali Rising Intern

Cultures around the world celebrate holidays with traditions and ceremonies both familiar and diverse. As we enter the holiday season here in the United States, I wanted to find out the ways Malians celebrate their special days.

Along with many common holidays we celebrate in the states, Mali celebrates Islamic holidays such as the End of Ramadan, the Feast of the Sacrifice, and the Birth of Muhammed the Prophet .Approximately 85 to 95 percent of Malians are Muslim, so these holidays are celebrated with traditions across the country. At the conclusion of Ramadan, Malian families celebrate Abraham’s sacrifice by sacrificing a sheep and holding a small feast. Gifts, usually in the form of meats and prepared foods, are exchanged as a show of unity and people wear their best dress.

In January, Armed Forces Day is celebrated to honor those serving in armed forces. On September 22, Mali celebrates its Independence Day which is an occasion for celebrating independence from France in 1960. Parades and political speeches are held, much like our Independence Day celebrations.

Along with National Holidays, there are festivals held around Mali that draw the attention of visitors and leaders. One such festival is that of the Niger River. “This Segou February festival is filled with music, dance, puppet shows, workshops, craft vendors, and pirogue boat races along the Niger River. No fewer than 15 of the Segou's unique puppetry and dance styles are represented, which also attracts many of Mali’s famous musicians. Wood carvings, paintings, sculptures, and photographs from the country’s most talented artists are displayed in galleries around the region. Actors, musicians, and puppeteers accompany centuries-old legends that Segovian storytellers share beneath the balanzan trees” (iExplore).

Seeing the similarities and differences of cultures around the world is a show of individualism, tradition, and uniqueness that is quite fascinating. We wish you the happiest of holidays from Mali Rising as you enjoy your traditions, whatever they are, this holiday season!

Works Cited

“Mali Holidays and Festivals.” Adventure Tourism - Experiential Travel Guides, IExplore, www.iexplore.com/articles/travel-guides/africa/mali/festivals-and-events.

“Mali.” Countries and Their Cultures, Countries and Their Cultures, www.everyculture.com/Ja-Ma/Mali.html.