INikki · Borgou · Benin
Gaani
The Bariba people’s grand royal and cultural festival will take place from 25 to 27 August 2026
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IIWelcome
Welcome to the Gaani
One people, one history, one crown
La Gaani is one of the largest traditional and religious celebrations in northern Benin. Held every year in Nikki, the historic capital of the Bariba Kingdom (Baatonu country), it is an event that celebrates identity, spirituality and culture, honouring the kingdom’s history, ancestral traditions and the central role of the Sina Boko, the traditional ruler of Nikki.
Thousandsof festival-goers every year
3 daysof celebration
16th c.roots of the kingdom
Baribapeople & culture
IIIAt a glance
The Highlights
The Grand Royal Parade
Wassangari horsemen before the imperial palace
The Royal Ceremonies
Ancestral rites around the Sinaboko
Dances & Performances
Songs, drumming and traditional dances
The Cultural Village
Local artisans, makers and producers
IVThe schedule
Three days of festivities
10a.m. – 6p.m.
The Gradual Arrival of the Crowned Heads
Gradual arrival of kings, princes, and traditional leaders; staging of the arrivals to facilitate photography and video recording; formal welcome and greetings to the King of Nikki.
6p.m. – 7p.m.