The Asaro Tribal Festival is a unique and captivating cultural event held annually in the Eastern Highlands Province of Papua New Guinea. This festival is a celebration of the rich cultural heritage of the Asaro people, renowned for their distinctive tradition of creating elaborate masks and costumes from mud and clay.
The origins of the Asaro Mudmen Festival are shrouded in mystery and legend, with local stories telling of a group of Asaro warriors who used mud from a nearby river to create terrifying masks and costumes, which they used to scare off their enemies. The Mudmen are said to have emerged victorious, and their fearsome appearance became a source of pride and inspiration for the Asaro people.
The first festival in 2024 was a resounding success, prompting plans for a repeat in 2025. This upcoming festival will be held in conjunction with the Skeleton and Waterfall Festivals, creating a week-long celebration of tribal meetups in June. The festivities take place in the community village where the Asaro Eco Lodge is located. Many other tribes from surrounding villages, such as the Bruning Heads of Gimmesave, Arunumuna Ladies Group, and the Korokuvo Masked Tribe, will also attend, making the event a diverse and enriching experience.
During the festival, the Asaro people don their distinctive mud masks and costumes and perform a range of traditional dances, accompanied by the sound of Kundu drums and other traditional instruments. The dances are a colorful and vibrant celebration of Asaro culture, featuring intricate movements and acrobatics that are sure to amaze and inspire.
In addition to the traditional dances, the festival also features a range of other cultural activities, such as craft markets, storytelling sessions, and traditional cooking demonstrations. Visitors can sample a variety of local delicacies, including roasted yams, taro, and sago, and browse handmade crafts and souvenirs.
One of the highlights of the festival is the Asaro Mudmen performance, where the performers don their distinctive masks and costumes to reenact the legendary battle that gave rise to the tradition. This performance offers a fascinating glimpse into the history and culture of the Asaro people and is sure to leave a lasting impression on visitors.
If you’re planning a trip to Papua New Guinea, the Asaro Mudmen Festival is a must-see event that offers a unique and unforgettable cultural experience. Below is a link to book your spot for visiting these three festivals in June 2025.
Asaro Mudmen Festival and Skeleton Tribe’s Day of the Skull Dancers