Daoula-Ba Festival

As the famous festival related to fashion in Mali, Daoula-Ba Festival is widely known. The festival held in Soh village in March every year certainly lives up to its name. Organic cotton, Soh's biggest export, is the façade and centerpiece, with many of Mali's most important dignitaries being guided through the village's organic cotton looms while formal theatrical performances help entertain children. However, the highlight of the festival may be the colorful circle drum dances by the women.

Not only of cultural value, but the Daoula-Ba Festival also serves as the link in the economic sphere in Mali, since it was created between cotton producers and transformers. Fashion shows, weaving workshops, and concerts fill the Daoula-Ba Festival. Renowned photographer, Malick Sidibé, was also honored during the event.

• Organization time: March every year
• Location: Soh village, Mali