In Edo State, no celebration passes quietly — whether it’s Christmas or the New Yam Festival, Edo people know how to turn tradition into a full-blown experience. But while both events bring joy, laughter, and food, they couldn’t be more different in mood, meaning, and style.

Here’s a playful look at how we Edo people switch from “Hallelujah!” to “Iseee!” depending on the season 👑🎶

1. The Preparation Spirit — Church Bells vs Traditional Drums 🔔🥁

Christmas:
Weeks before Christmas, you’ll hear church choirs rehearsing carols and children practicing their Christmas drama. Street corners light up, and tailors are suddenly busier than ever — “My cloth never ready?” becomes the December anthem.

New Yam Festival:
For the New Yam Festival (Emorho), the vibe is different. Drums echo across the community, elders gather to consult tradition, and the Oba or Enogie gives the spiritual go-ahead before the first yam is eaten. It’s not just a party — it’s sacred.

2. Food Galore — Jollof vs Pounded Yam 🍚🥔

Christmas:
Every Edo household competes to cook the best Jollof rice. Goat meat, turkey, fried plantain — the menu must “show class.” Even if you’re broke, you’ll still find a way to buy one small chicken.

New Yam Festival:
Here, yam takes the throne. Roasted yam, boiled yam, pounded yam — it’s yam overload! Served with Owo soup, pepper sauce, or palm oil, it’s not just eating — it’s thanksgiving to the gods of the land.

3. Dressing Style — Western Shine vs Royal Glam 👗👑

Christmas:
Expect glittering gowns, jeans, and polo shirts — everyone wants to “slay” for Christmas. The youth flood Benin City’s clubs and lounges, and pictures must enter social media immediately.

New Yam Festival:
Cultural pride takes over. Coral beads, wrappers, white traditional attires, and red caps fill the streets. The Oba’s palace glows with ancient elegance. It’s not about showing off — it’s about belonging.

4. Entertainment — Carols vs Cultural Dance 🎶💃

Christmas:
It’s gospel concerts, street parties, and endless “Merry Christmas!” greetings. Children run around with fireworks (banger), and every DJ plays Rema and Asake on repeat.

New Yam Festival:
Traditional dance troupes take over. The rhythm of gongs, flutes, and drums fills the air. Elders tell old stories about ancestors, and masquerades entertain the crowd.

5. The Meaning — Religion vs Roots 🙏🏽🌾

Christmas:
For Edo Christians, Christmas celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ — a time to reflect, give thanks, and spread love.

New Yam Festival:
This is about gratitude to the earth and ancestors — giving thanks for the harvest, life, and community unity. It’s a spiritual renewal for the land.

Final Thoughts ✨

Christmas connects Edo people to faith, while the New Yam Festival connects us to our roots. One celebrates heaven, the other honors the earth — and together, they show the beautiful balance between modern belief and ancient tradition.

In Edo, we don’t just celebrate — we rejoice in color, culture, and community.