The Odwira Festival is celebrated by the people of Akropong-Akuapim, Aburi, Larteh and Mamfi in the  Eastern Region. 

This festival is celebrated in most Akwapim towns during the months of September and October. The Akuapem Odwira festival was initiated by the 19th Okuapimhene of Akropong, Nana Addo Dankwa I (1811-1835) and was first celebrated in October 1826.

It’s significance is to celebrate their victory over the invincible Ashanti army during the historic battle of Katamansu near Dodowa in 1826 and also to cleanse themselves and ask for protection from their gods.

Odwira is a time of spiritual cleansing, when the peoples Okuapeman, and all who celebrate, present themselves anew and pray for protection.

Traditionally, the timing of the festival also coincides with the harvest season when there is abundant food; during which time the people give thanks to the Ancestors. Being a Yam Festival, gratitude for the harvest is especially expressed in the “feeding the ancestors”.

During the Festival, bowls of mashed yam (some mixed with palm oil and others left white) which have been specially prepared by the Okuapehene and other stool occupants are carried in procession from the Ahemfi to feed the ancestors at Nsorem.

A little-known fact is, the Odwira Festival is also celebrated by the Ga people of Jamestown in the Greater Accra Region of Ghana as a result of their long association with the Akans through intermarriages.