A cultural event celebrated every year in Bonoua, Popo Carnaval opens its doors for its 43rd edition this year, to be held from April 1 to 14, 2024. 

This carnival is a veritable institution in the region, attracting almost 100,000 visitors every year. A popular festival, its origins lie in the modifications that the young Abouré family made to the annual yam festival. In 1946, they innovated by organizing the "Popo" and later named it "Popo Carnaval", introducing the modern aspect of carnival. It celebrates the traditional habits and customs of the Abouré people. 

Popo Carnaval begins on a Saturday and opens with a commercial week featuring a variety of entertainment, including brass bands, theatrical performances and folk dances. This trade fair sets the pace for the festival, and provides an opportunity for festival-goers to enjoy themselves. They come from Abidjan and surrounding towns to meet local merchants. 

It is followed by a grand parade of floats and masked men (Popo, which means "Mask" in the Abouré language) on the town's main square, and the election of the most handsome man (Êbè) and the most beautiful woman (Awoulaba). The Awoulaba has become the cultural icon of Popo carnival. Each edition of Popo has had its queen of African beauty.

The festival ends with a grand masked ball. 

Don't miss this opportunity to take part in this festival with Yafohi Travel!

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Photo credits: Côte d'Ivoire Tourism