The Onitsha people, originally farmers, have a ceremonial cycle of six major festivals rooted in their agricultural heritage. These festivals symbolically connect social life to broader realities, following the phases of the moon. Each 28-day lunar month, called onwa , consists of seven four-day weeks known as oge-isa , and is proclaimed by the Obi.

1. Aja Chi (June): A thanksgiving sacrifice to invoke one’s personal Chi for assistance in achieving a successful harvest.

2. Umato (August): A feast celebrating the new corn harvest, led by the monarch, followed by the heads of non-royal clans, spiritual heads of kindred groups, red-cap chiefs, and finally, titled, and non-titled persons.

3. Owuwa Ji (September-October): A joyous festival marking the yam harvest, celebrated by each quarter, with masquerade performances and initiation of adolescent boys into the masquerade society.

4. Ofala (October): A celebration of the monarch’s annual emergence from seclusion, during which he makes atonement for communal misdeeds and negotiates the kingdom’s fortunes. This festival has gained international recognition and attracts significant attention.

5. Osisi Ite (Second Oye after Ikolobioji): A festival celebrating the end of the harvest cycle and the seven weeks of leisure during the yam festival, marked with an abundance of okro soup.

6. Ifejioku (January): A celebration of the spirit that ensures human well-being and prosperity, marked with cocoyam. This festival concludes the cycle and prepares the land for the coming planting season.

These festivals showcase the rich cultural heritage of the Onitsha people, highlighting their deep connection to the land, their ancestors, and their community.