In an eight day ceremony, girls cut reeds and present them to the Queen Mother and then dance. This ceremony takes place around late August to early September. Only childless, unmarried girls can take part. The aims of the ceremony are to: preserve girls’ chastity provide tribute labour for the

No announcement is made for the date of the public holiday for the main day of the Incwala. It is the fourth day after the full moon nearest the longest day. Incwala is often given in English as ‘first fruits ceremony’, but the King’s tasting of the new harvest is only one aspect

Marula Festival The cheerful, friendly Swati people have preserved their rich culture and traditions as a vital element in their day-to-day lives and colourful ceremonies are held every year to celebrate Swati traditions. The Swati people are united by culture and values; and the Marula or Buganu