Currently, the festival showcases ritual performances, story-telling, cultural dancing, and singing among others. Some of the language groups that participate in the festival include the Sulka, Pomio, and Baining. Apart from Tolai, the event is also considered a countrywide event that is used in the promotion of the mask cultures to audiences outside the East New Britain province.
The festival which is located in Kokopo runs for four days and is split into two sections which include the mask festival and the one dedicated to Warwagira people. The mask festival involves a ceremony known as Kinavai that involves the Tubuans arriving in canoes chanting and beating Kundu drums. Baining fire dances are also part of the festival which allows the Baining people to showcase their dancing skills to residents and tourists. For the Warwagira, the festival allows communities from different parts of Papua New Guinea to display their unique costumes and dancing skills on the showground. All through the festival, visitors will get a chance to view ancient masks and costumes from the region.
In general, cultural events in Papua New Guinea are a great way to learn about the people, their culture, and the region. The interior parts of the region may be hard to access but with proper planning, you can make your way to different locations and experience culture in its most original form. Thankfully, the festivals happen throughout the year, making it possible to select the ones that fit in with your schedule. Whether you have a few days or a month for vacation, make your way to Papua New Guinea, and enjoy a life-changing journey.
DATES OF THE The Rabaul Mask festival IN 2022: Cancelled for 2022
DATES OF THE The Rabaul Mask festival IN 2023: TBA
DATES OF THE The Rabaul Mask festival IN 2024: TBA
