National Mask Festival

East New Britain Province of Papua New Guinea

The National Mask Festival takes place every year on the volcanic shores of East New Britain Province of Papua New Guinea. The festival starts at dawn with the Kinavai ceremony, when Duk-Duk and Tumbuan, or male and female spirits, arrive on canoes accompanied by the beating of drums. Mysterious and feared Duk-Duk and Tumbuan are part of the traditional culture of the Tolai people, and are highly respected. In Tolai culture, young boys undergo the initiation ceremony to become part of the Tumbuan society and own a Tumbuan.

The culture of East New Britain Province is at the centre of attention. However, the festival also sees the dancers from other provinces, in particular, from West New Britain and New Ireland, with their traditional and colourful attire, elaborate masks and spectacular headdresses, all representing their unique cultural identity.

Read the full story here: National Mask Festival in East New Britain