Ogori Idu Ogengen Festival - United Kingdom
- ALL AGES
Join us as we bring our Ogori Idu Ogengen Festival to the UK
Date and time
Location
Erema Place
College Row Ashford TN23 4AG United KingdomAbout this event
- Event lasts 7 hours
- ALL AGES
- Free venue parking
From the hills of Ogori to the garden of England - UK, Idu Ogengen (New Yam) Festival is here! 🎉 Join us for a soulful day of culture, food, dance & tradition.
Before the yam is eaten, it must be honoured.
In the lush green hills of Ogori, Kogi State, the arrival of the new yam is not just a harvest - it is a sacred moment.
A time to give thanks, to gather, to dance, to remember. For generations, the Idu Ogengen has united the Ogori people in a colourful festival led by His Highness, Chief Osiako Moses, the Osiako Idu VII - the revered custodian of this ancestral tradition.
Now, for the first time, that spirit travels across the waters. Experience the pounding of yam, the beating of drums, the taste of Ẹkpasẹ Ofufuwa and the laughter around Ayo and other board games - this is more than an event.
It is a homecoming for every heart that still beats with the rhythm of Ogori.
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🎉 What to Expect
🍽️ A Taste of Home – Feast on authentic Ogori dishes like Ifo (Pounded Yam), Egusi, Beans Soup, Ẹkpasẹ Ofufuwa, and more.
💃 Live Eregba Performances – Dance to the rhythms that connect past and present.
🎶 DJ Zaza Live Set – Tradition meets modern beats in a celebration of heritage.
🎯 Games & Raffles – Play Ayo, card games, draughts, and win meaningful prizes.
🌍 Cultural Showcase & Storytelling – Learn, see, and feel the richness of Ogori through art, narration, and community.
❤️ Give Back – Support the Ogori Food Bank Initiative through donations and fundraising on-site.
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🌍 Make It a Weekend to Remember
You’re not just coming for a festival, you’re stepping into a Bank Holiday Weekend experience. After the dancing ends and the last bowl of Egusi is scraped clean, the journey continues…
After the drums fall silent and the last spoon of egusi is enjoyed, the celebration doesn’t have to end. With Monday being a UK Bank Holiday, make the most of your stay in Ashford, Kent - a gateway to some of England’s most charming countryside experiences, cultural spots, and family-friendly attractions.
🛍️ Retail Therapy at Ashford Designer Outlet
Wander through this beautiful, architecturally designed outlet village just 10 minutes from the venue. With over 100 stores including Nike, Adidas, Ralph Lauren, Michael Kors, Coach, and Lindt, it's the perfect Sunday stroll for post-festival shopping - and the discounts make it even sweeter.
🦒 Port Lympne Safari Park & Wild Animal Reserve
Looking for something unforgettable for the kids (and kids at heart)? Just a 25-minute drive away, Port Lympne Reserve is home to giraffes, lions, rhinos, and gorillas. Step into a jeep safari or walk among rare animals - it’s like an African journey in the English countryside.
🌊 Seaside Escape at Folkestone Beach & Harbour Arm
Craving sea breeze and fresh seafood? Drive 30 minutes to Folkestone for stunning beaches, fish & chips, coastal art, and the historic Harbour Arm - now filled with food stalls, live music, and sunset views over the Channel.
🏰 Godinton House & Gardens
Step into English elegance just 10 minutes away. This beautifully preserved country estate offers lush gardens, tea rooms, and a quiet slice of history - ideal for winding down your weekend in peace and greenery.
🍷 Kent Vineyards & Farm Shops
Known as the “Garden of England,” Kent is dotted with local vineyards and charming farm shops. Sip wine at Chapel Down Winery or explore fresh produce and crafts at The Curious Eatery and Wye Farmers Market.
🎡 Family Fun at Victoria Park & Conningbrook Lakes
For a relaxed family picnic or nature walk, check out Ashford’s Victoria Park, full of open spaces, play areas, and floral gardens. Or head to Conningbrook Lakes Country Park for scenic trails, kayaking, and birdwatching.
🛍️ Ashford Town Centre – Visit local cafés, markets, and small shops that add charm to the Kent countryside.
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📍 Event Details
🗓 Date: Saturday, 23rd August 2025
🕑 Time: 2:00 PM
📍 Venue: EREMA PLACE, College Row, Ashford, Kent, TN23 4AG
🎟 Tickets/RSVP:
📞 Enquiries: +447507779694; +44 7376 430797
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🌺 Let’s Come Together and Spread the Love!
Whether you’re travelling solo, as a family, or with friends - Idu Ogengen Festival UK is just the beginning. Make the most of this Bank Holiday Weekend with a celebration of culture on Saturday and exploration on Sunday & Monday.
So pack your aso-ebi, bring your camera, and prepare your heart - not just for the yam, but for an unforgettable journey of roots, rhythm, and rest.
Come for the yam, stay for the legacy - and enjoy a truly unforgettable Afro-British weekend of celebration, sightseeing, and connection.
Because when we honour the yam, we honour our people, our land, and our story.
#IduOgengenFestivalUK #NewYamInTheUK #OgoriHeritageWeekend #FromOgoriToAshford
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🛏️ Plan Your Stay – Accommodation Guide
Coming from outside Kent? Turn your visit to the Idu Ogengen (New Yam) Festival UK into a full weekend getaway! Whether you're joining solo or with family, there are plenty of warm, comfortable, and affordable places to stay in and around Ashford, Kent - just minutes from the festival venue.
🏨 Top Hotel Options Nearby (All within 10–15 minutes’ drive):
1. Travelodge Ashford Town Centre
📍 9 minutes from the venue
💷 Budget-friendly & family rooms available
🌐 Book directly: www.travelodge.co.uk
2. Premier Inn Ashford Central
📍 10 minutes from the venue
🛏 Great for families, with onsite restaurant
🌐 Book directly: www.premierinn.com
3. Holiday Inn Ashford Central
📍 8 minutes from the venue
🌳 Quaint building with garden setting
🌐 Book directly: www.ihg.com/holidayinn
4. Ashford International Hotel & Spa
📍 12 minutes from the venue
🌟 4-star comfort with a spa for a luxurious weekend
🌐 Book: www.qhotels.co.uk
🏠 Airbnb & Guest Homes
Ashford also offers a range of Airbnb homes and private guest accommodations, perfect for group bookings or longer stays.
Explore: www.airbnb.co.uk/s/Ashford--United-Kingdom
🚘 Venue Address for Booking Reference:
Erema Place, College Row, Ashford, Kent, TN23 4AG
Use this postcode when searching for hotels or planning your route.
🛎️ Need Help Booking?
If you’re unsure where to stay or travelling in a group, feel free to reach out - we’re happy to assist with travel suggestions or local contacts.
📞 Enquiries & Booking Support: +447507779694; +44 7376 430797
Frequently asked questions
Yes! There will be a variety of delicious traditional Ogori dishes and drinks available for sale, including pounded yam, egusi, amala, pito, and more. Vegan and gluten-free options will also be available.
Traditional or cultural attire (aso-ebi, African prints, or festive wear) is encouraged - but not mandatory. Come as you are, but come vibrant!
Yes. The venue is wheelchair and stroller accessible. If you need additional support, please reach out in advance so we can assist you.
Absolutely! There will be games, raffles, and activities suitable for children of all ages.
Not necessarily. You’ll find a wide selection of culturally authentic meals and beverages available on-site.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed at the venue (except for certified assistance animals).
Yes, is an outdoor event
Yes, there will be a donation station at the event, and details for cash and bank transfer donations will also be shared.