RABAUL MASK FESTIVAL

Selected MV Oceania departures coincide with the Rabaul Mask Festival, which we are advised starts on the second Wednesday of July annually.

What is it?

The National Mask & Warwagira Festival is a showcase of the varied and unique cultures of East New Britain.
Over 5 days experience authentic performances of cultural dancing, rituals, traditional storytelling, local art and of course - masks.

There are many highlights including the ‘Kinavai’ ceremony, which takes place at dawn and features the arrival of the Tolai ‘Tubans’ and ‘Duk-Duks’ on canoes to the sound of drums and singing. At night visitors watch in awe as the Baining people perform ‘fire dances’, leaping barefoot in traditional dress through blazing bonfires.
Guests can learn the rich history of the area, including the use of ‘shell money’ which is still used in some situations today (such as bride price).

Where is it, and how does it tie in with Oceania?

The show takes place in Kokopo at the Ralum Showground.
Guests on Oceania trips ending in Rabaul on the festival start date will have the opportunity to view the Kinavai ceremony from the boat before disembarkation (or onshore if you want a closer look).

Guests on trips departing Rabaul after the Festival will board on the final day of the festivities.

TICKETS AND ACCOMMODATION

If you are interested in booking a visit to the Rabaul Mask Festival, you can book tickets via your accommodation provider in Rabaul. For more information on the festival in general, it is best to contact your accommodation provider.
We recommend Kokopo Beach Bungalows, which is where we board and disembark for the trips that coincide with the festival.