In Pictures: Sacred masks and dancing fill Benin’s capital

Sacred spirits met swirling colour in Porto-Novo this weekend, as performers in elaborate wooden masks and flowing fabrics danced through the streets during Benin’s annual traditional mask festival – seen here through the lens of photographer Sunday Alamba.

The lively event brought together sacred and secular mask traditions from across Benin and the surrounding region, aiming to both honour ancient customs and position Porto-Novo as a rising star on the West African cultural tourism map.

Closely tied to the Yoruba, Somba, and Betammaribe communities, many of the masks – like Egungun and Zangbeto – represent ancestral spirits that guard communities and connect the living with the spiritual world.

As drummers filled the air with rhythm, costumed performers acted out stories passed down through generations.

While rooted in Vodun heritage, the festival also offers a broader cultural experience. Visitors explored a bustling festival village featuring local crafts and regional cuisine, and enjoyed concerts and parades.

Organised with backing from Benin’s Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Arts, the event is part of a growing effort to boost the country’s visibility on the international cultural stage. With attendees from neighbouring countries, Europe, and beyond, the festival is fast becoming a highlight on Benin’s cultural calendar.