Zimbabwe Shona Birthday Traditions

by Marc
(New Jersey)

My family decided to take my aunt "home" to Africa for her 29th birthday, specifically Zimbabwe. We have been living in the U.S. for many generations, but decided that this trip would be worth it.

Still following the same traditions we always have would be multiplied greatly while there.

Our traditional party was held in a village of Shona people, though we stayed in Harare. The night before her party, we went to the small village and had a huge dinner in celebration, along with a nice fire and lots of music. Our family always brings the birthday in on that day, rather than closing it out on the birthday night.

I was surprised that most of the cuisine served was that which is in the 'soul food' category in the United States. There was chicken, fish, rice, and okra, yams, and black-eyed peas for vegetables.

The Shona villagers helped with the preparations, and were clearly very happy to have such a large buffet. They not only followed along as is their custom, but took part as if my aunt was in their family. It was very nice!

On my aunt's birthday morning we were back, dressed in white clothing. My aunt and her mother were dressed in purple. This is to say that the mother has brought up her daughter correctly and deserves just as much praise for her success.

After being thanked for her service, and my aunt blessed by the eldest member of the tribe, we all put on traditional African clothing and danced to percussion music.

We enjoyed eating the amazing leftovers from the night before. It was certainly a great time!