![Dance performance at Panafest](https://www.easytrackghana.com/images/photos2/thumbnails/panafest-1.jpg) |
PAN-AFRICAN FESTIVAL
This special celebration for Africans and people of African descent is rooted in the ideals of Pan-Africanism and development of Africa. It is aimed at promoting understanding, peace and unity among all African people and her great Diaspora.
Most events occur in Cape Coast, capital of the Western Region of Ghana and about a 3.5 hour drive from Accra, although the opening and closing events, as well as Emancipation Day, are celebrated at othe locations.
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![Ghanaian chiefs](https://www.easytrackghana.com/images/photos2/thumbnails/panafest-2.jpg) |
EMANCIPATION DAY
Emancipation Day commemorates the significant date of 01-August. It is on this date in 1834 that slavery and slave trade was formally abolished in most of the British Empire. Slaves over 6 years old were 'redesignated' as 'apprentices' and legally achieved full emancipation on 01-August 1838.
Ghana was the first African country to celebrate Emancipation Day, beginning in 1998. This year, 2020, is the 181st anniversary of full legal emancipation in the British Empire.
Note that Emancipation Day in other countries may differ. The United States, for example, celebrates Emancipation Day on 16 April, the date that President Abraham Lincoln signed the Compensated Emancipation Act in 1862.
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![Durbar of chiefs at Panafest](https://www.easytrackghana.com/images/photos2/thumbnails/panafest-3.jpg) |
EVENTS
- Grand durbar of chiefs
- Performances of theatre, dance, music and poetry
- Naming ceremony (prior registration required)
- Dance workshops
- Slave March re-enactment
- Candlelight vigil and prayers at Cape Coast castle
- Emancipation Day Celebration in Assin Manso
- Closing concert at the National Theater in Accra
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![Panafest Festival](https://www.easytrackghana.com/images/photos2/panafest-7.jpg) |
COME AND ENJOY
The Easy Track Ghana team is ready to show you Panafest. Pre-festival events begin the last week in July and last through 02 August.
See the official Panafest website.
While celebrating Panafest, it is also easy to visit an agricultural ecotourism site such as a stingless bee facility or a palm oil production, as well as the famous rain forest canopy walkway at Kakum National Park.
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