I recently attend my friend 21st Nigerian birthday party at his house. Unlike most traditional American birthdays where you have balloons, ornaments and presents this one was very unusual. I quickly realized that not everyone celebrates birthdays in the same way.
As I was greeted at the door by my friend, he was dressed in a kaftan, which is a crafted colorful Nigerian suit. I automatically felt out of place because as I entered the house everyone was wearing one, even the little kids. Never have I felt like an outsider in my own race.
The party reminded me of a festival, there was about 100+ people in attendance ranging from extended family and close friends. A disc jokey was playing native African music, as people were dancing. Then the music stopped and the parents brought my friend forward. They gave the parent talk in front of everyone and told the audience how grateful they are to have him as their son. After the speech was over, they danced and people started to pull money out. The family and friends joined in by “Making It Rain,” which is a popular thing to do in the Nigerian culture. This ritual signifies that in the coming years, financial blessing well come down from God.
The food was like a potluck, it consisted of an entire roasted cow and goat. They also serve a dish called "jollof rice" which is rice with tomatoes, red peppers, and onions plus cassava which is similar to sweet potato. I fell in love with the Nigerian culture and the way they celebrated birthdays. I felt like my Americanized birthdays lacked the love and support that showed on that night.In the near future, I hope to have one like his.
Sounds like a very cool birthday party.
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