Festivals

Akwasidae: the Asantehene’s court gathers at Manhyia Palace

Ashanti Region

Akwasidae

Akwasidae1 / 1

Photo: Zack Agon / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)

Every sixth Sunday, the Asantehene, chiefs and elders assemble at Manhyia Palace to honour Asante ancestors and display the Golden Stool — the closest most visitors get to the working court of the Asante kingdom.

Akwasidae is part of the forty-two day Adae cycle observed by the Asante state, held on a Sunday every sixth week. Libation is poured to royal ancestors at the Sikadwa Kofi, the Golden Stool, and a grander version, Adae Kese, is held roughly twice a year.

The ceremony takes place in the courtyard of Manhyia Palace in Kumasi. The Asantehene appears in full regalia, chiefs and sub-chiefs pay homage in strict order of precedence, and drumming ensembles play repertoires specific to the Asante court.

Unlike an annual festival, Akwasidae repeats roughly every six weeks, so dates need checking against the current Adae calendar. It pairs directly with a visit to the Manhyia Palace Museum, which sits on the same grounds.

When it happens

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Falls on a Sunday every sixth week as part of the Akan 42-day Adae cycle — check the current cycle for the next date

What to see

The Asantehene’s public appearance in full kente and gold regalia
Sub-chiefs and elders paying homage in strict order of precedence
Fontomfrom and other talking-drum ensembles specific to the Asante court
The Golden Stool displayed within the palace grounds

Quick facts

Region: Ashanti Region
Location: Manhyia Palace, Kumasi
When: Every sixth Sunday, part of the 42-day Adae cycle
Who celebrates: The Asantehene and the Asante royal court
Note: Dates follow the Adae calendar — confirm the next one before travelling

Getting there

Kumasi is about four to five hours north of Accra by road, or a short domestic flight.
Manhyia Palace is in central Kumasi, reachable by taxi from anywhere in the city.
Pair with the Manhyia Palace Museum, which sits on the same grounds.

Get directions

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Visitor tips

Confirm the next Akwasidae date locally or with the palace before planning around it — the Adae cycle doesn’t follow a fixed monthly pattern.
Modest, respectful dress is expected; this is a working court occasion, not a staged show.

Nearby attractions