8TH TO 10TH JULY, 2026
🪶 Mask & Warwagira Festival 2026 – East New Britain
Dates: 8–10 July 2026
Location: East New Britain Province, Papua New Guinea
Experience one of Papua New Guinea’s most iconic cultural festivals.
The Mask & Warwagira Festival celebrates the extraordinary mask traditions of East New Britain Province, bringing together the cultural heritage of the Tolai, Baining and Pomio people.
This vibrant festival is a powerful showcase of:
- Traditional masked dances
- Ritual performances and storytelling
- Cultural exchange and community celebration
- Handcrafted arts and local crafts
Festival Highlights
🌅 Kinavai Ceremony (Opening Day)
Witness the awe-inspiring Kinavai, where the Tolai secret societies—Tubuan and Duk-Duk—arrive at dawn by canoe. This sacred ceremony is accompanied by traditional Tolai shell money exchanges, marking the official opening of the festival.
🔥 Baining Fire Dance (Night Experience)
Journey into the mountains to experience the legendary Baining Fire Dance, where performers move through blazing flames in a dramatic and spiritual display unlike anywhere else in the world.
Why Visit?
The Mask & Warwagira Festival offers a rare opportunity to experience authentic living culture of the people of East New Britain—deeply rooted traditions, powerful performances, and meaningful connections with local communities.
Plan Your Visit
For more information, please contact the Mask & Warwagira Festival Committee:
📧 maskfestival2019@gmail.com
📞 +675 7270 9261 / 7307 5124 / 7135 0761
