Hogbetsotso Festival, also known as Hogbetsotso Za or Hogbe, is the annual festival of the chiefs and people of Anlo in Ghana’s Volta Region. The celebration is held in Anloga, the customary and spiritual capital of the Anlo State, with the main durbar traditionally taking place on the first Saturday of November.
The festival commemorates the historic migration of the Anlo-Ewe people from Notsie, in present-day Togo, to their current settlements in southeastern Ghana. The name “Hogbetsotso” is commonly understood as referring to the day of departure, exodus, or “coming out” from Hogbe, another name associated with Notsie.
According to Anlo-Ewe oral tradition, the people once lived under the rule of Togbui Agorkoli, whose oppressive leadership made life unbearable. To escape, the people developed a plan to weaken part of the city wall by repeatedly pouring water on it. Once the wall softened, they broke through and fled under the cover of night. Tradition also holds that they walked backward during their escape so their footprints would appear to lead back into Notsie, confusing anyone who tried to follow them.
Hogbetsotso is more than a remembrance of migration. It is a celebration of liberation, wisdom, resilience, unity, and survival. In the period leading up to the grand durbar, the festival includes traditional cleansing, peace-making, reconciliation, community cleaning, remembrance of ancestors, and renewal of bonds among the people.
The climax of the festival features a grand durbar of chiefs, queen mothers, elders, citizens, and visitors. Chiefs appear in colorful regalia, receive homage, and affirm the unity and development of the Anlo State. Traditional drumming, singing, dancing, and cultural performances fill the celebration, including Agbadza, one of the best-known Ewe music and dance traditions.
Today, Hogbetsotso remains one of the Volta Region’s most important cultural festivals. It brings together people from Anlo communities, Ghana, the diaspora, and beyond to honor Ewe history, celebrate freedom, and experience the living heritage of a people whose story continues to inspire pride, identity, and unity.
Time of Year: First Saturday of November; related activities may take place in the days or weeks leading up to the grand durbar
Location: Anloga, Volta Region, Ghana
Best For: Ewe culture, migration history, traditional leadership, Agbadza dance, heritage travel, and community celebration.
Beyond The Return Travel and Tours is an IATA/IATAN-accredited and Ghana Tourism Authority-licensed travel company.
IATA/IATAN #11-727133
Ghana Tourism Authority License #GATT0026726
We provide quality in-country travel experiences for Africans in the Diaspora. Join the BTR eNews mailing list for travel updates, cultural highlights, and upcoming Ghana tour opportunities.
