Festivals & Social Life
The Mmanwu Masquerade festival is one of the most important social events in Umunoha. The festival is held annually, and it is a celebration of the culture, traditions, and heritage of the Umunoha people. During the festival, the masquerades (Mmanwu) perform traditional dances and songs to the audience while followers (Umuadugwu & Umuerere) play musical instruments and also perform dances and songs. The festival attracts large crowds from Umunoha and the surrounding areas, and it is a time for the community to come together, celebrate, and have fun.
In addition to Mmanwu, there are other festivals in Umunoha that also impact the social life of the community. For example, the Achukwu Masquerade is exclusive to Umuokparafor and Umumbara villages, and it is a celebration that is carried out at night and women are not allowed to see the masquerade. The Iri-ji festival, which is the New Yam Festival, is an important event in the agricultural calendar of Umunoha and it is a time to give thanks for the year's harvest. The Odula festival, which marks the beginning of the new planting season, is also celebrated with great joy and excitement. The Okporompi festival is exclusive to the Umudurundom village, while the rest of the villages partake in the other festivals.
These festivals are an important aspect of the social life in Umunoha, and they help to keep the community's traditions and culture alive. The community comes together to celebrate, dance, sing, and participate in other cultural activities. These festivals help to build a sense of community, strengthen relationships, and foster a sense of belonging among the people of Umunoha.