The Ondo State capital, Akure, is set to host a colourful display of culture and tradition as the maiden edition of CULFEST 1.1 is scheduled to hold on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, at the Adegbemile Cultural Centre.
Convener of the festival, Yèyé Modupe O. Akerele, who holds the traditional title of Yèyé Àṣà of Ìkàré Àkókó and is also the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Cultural House, said the event aims to showcase the richness of indigenous heritage while promoting cultural education and community development.
Speaking with journalists ahead of the festival, Akerele explained that the event goes beyond a mere social gathering, describing it as a platform designed to reinforce cultural identity and pride.
According to her, the festival is intended to highlight the beauty of Yoruba heritage through creative expressions, fashion, music and communal engagement.
She noted that CULFEST would create an environment where tradition blends with modern expressions, allowing participants to reconnect with their roots while celebrating their identity.
Akerele disclosed that the festival, scheduled to commence at 11am, would feature a variety of cultural and social activities aimed at promoting indigenous traditions and supporting community welfare.
She listed some of the highlights of the event to include traditional dance performances, cultural lectures, goodwill messages from respected traditional rulers, and cultural fashion displays.
The convener added that the festival would also incorporate humanitarian activities, including a medical outreach programme and the distribution of free eyeglasses to members of the community.
According to her, the initiative reflects the organisers’ commitment to ensuring that cultural celebrations also contribute meaningfully to the well-being of the people.
CULFEST 1.1 is expected to attract several prominent traditional rulers and cultural stakeholders from within and outside Ondo State.
Among the royal fathers expected at the event are the Owa Ale Adimula of Ikare Akoko, Oba Adeleke Adefemi Adegbite-Adedoyin II; the Arujale Ojima of Okeluse, Oba Adeyeoba Oloyede Akinghare II; the Olowo of Owo, Oba Ajibade Gbadegesin Ogunoye III; the Elemure of Emure, Oba Bankole Adeyefa II; and the Deji of Akure, Oba Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade Odundun III.
The festival will also feature cultural recognition awards for individuals who have made significant contributions to the promotion and preservation of Yoruba culture.
Those to be honoured include Olamilekan Fabilola, popularly known as Masoyinbo; Yoruba language scholar, Ademola Olamide Seyifunmi; Are Ọba Àṣà Àgbáyé; Bolanle Lebson Idanegbe, President of the Ondo State Ajumn; Engr. (Chief) Adesina V. Adeola, President of the Rufus Giwa Polytechnic Alumni Association; and cultural promoter, St. Duro, among others.
Akerele said the awards are meant to recognise individuals who have continued to promote and sustain cultural heritage in their respective communities.
She added that the festival is designed to bring together traditional institutions, cultural practitioners, scholars and members of the public in a collective effort to preserve indigenous traditions and strengthen cultural pride.
Akerele further noted that the event is expected to draw cultural enthusiasts, scholars, artists and members of the public who are passionate about promoting and sustaining the cultural values of the people.
0 Comments