Adelaide To Host 2025 Igbo New Yam Festival: A Celebration of Culture, Unity, Heritage

Adelaide To Host 2025 Igbo New Yam Festival: A Celebration of Culture, Unity, Heritage

By Frank Odinukaeze

Adelaide will come alive with colour, dance, and tradition as the Igbo Community of South Australia (ICSA) stages its much-anticipated 2025 New Yam Festival (Iwa Ji/Iri Ji) on Sunday, 5th October 2025, at the Goodwood Community Centre Hall.
This year’s edition marks a historic milestone, being the first New Yam Festival under the leadership of ICSA’s newly elected President, Mr. Joseph Amaefuna. Organisers have promised a cultural extravaganza that will not only honour Igbo heritage but also foster stronger ties with Adelaide’s multicultural communities.
Speaking ahead of the event, ICSA Public Relations Officer, Mr. Nnaemeka Umenzeakor, described the festival as more than a ceremony. “The Iri Ji Festival is a turning point — a celebration of thanksgiving, renewal, and abundance. It will reaffirm our cultural values while strengthening bonds with other communities across South Australia,” he said.
The New Yam Festival, one of the oldest and most significant traditions in Igbo culture, symbolises the beginning of harvest and a new cycle of hope. Central to the celebration is the ritual cutting and eating of yam, a spiritual act that has evolved into a worldwide cultural showcase.
In preparation, ICSA Public Relations Officer,Nnaemeka Umenzeakor,has embarked on several outreach activities, including a landmark engagement with the South Australian Caribbean Community, which will be highlighted during the festival through a cultural partnership unveiling.
A distinguished guest list has been confirmed, featuring the Minister for Multicultural Affairs, Hon. Zoe Bettison MP; Shaquille Hibbert, President of the South Australian Caribbean Community; leaders of the Nigerian Association of South Australia; the African Communities Council of South Australia; and other community dignitaries.
The festival program promises a vibrant mix of tradition and entertainment. Highlights include:
The ceremonial Iri Ji ritual led by Igbo elders and titled men and women.
Spectacular cultural displays, including the Igbo War Dance.
Arts and crafts exhibitions showcasing Igbo creativity.
Recognition of past ICSA presidents for their service.
Youth and children’s Igbo language presentations.
Traditional Igbo wrestling contests.
Authentic Igbo cuisines freshly prepared for guests.
A lively after-party featuring music and dance with a seasoned DJ.
Community members and supporters are encouraged to pay their annual dues and secure tickets online at https://orie.market/events/iri-ji-new-yam-festival-op1qC

Mr. Umenzeakor concluded with an open invitation: “This year’s festival is not just an event — it is a living testament to our heritage, a cultural handshake of unity, and a thanksgiving celebration of life and abundance. We warmly invite everyone, regardless of background, to join us for an unforgettable evening of culture and togetherness.”
The 2025 Igbo New Yam Festival will undoubtedly be one of Adelaide’s most memorable multicultural celebrations of the year.