Come as a guest,
not a spectator.
Vodun is a living religion, practised every day by many families in Benin. The Vodun Days open some of its celebrations to the public. Here is how to take part with respect.
- 01
Ask before every photo
People, shrines and ceremonies are not backdrops. Ask, accept a no, and put the phone away when you are asked to. Some moments are never filmed.
- 02
Never touch the costumed dancers
Masked and costumed figures are part of the ceremony, not performers for the crowd. Keep your distance, step back when they come towards you and follow the locals.
- 03
Some places are closed to visitors
Convents, sacred forests and some ceremonies are only for initiates. If someone asks you to leave, go inside or turn around, do it without arguing.
- 04
Dress with care
Light, covering clothes are welcome. Avoid wearing ritual objects as accessories and ask before wearing white or specific colours at a ceremony.
- 05
Go with a licensed guide
A local guide knows what you can see, where to stand and when to give. It is the best way to understand what is happening, and to support local people.
- 06
No drones, no live streams of rites
Flying a drone or streaming a ritual can offend and can be forbidden. Ask the organisers first.
- 07
Words matter
Vodun is a religion, not "black magic" or a show. Talk about it as you would about any faith.
when in doubt, ask. people will tell you.
These are general good practices, not religious rules. On the ground, the people of Ouidah and the organisers of the Vodun Days have the last word. Official programme: vodundays.bj.
Get the full guide