Origins (2004)
The Daoukro International Festival of Cultures and Arts (FICAD) was created in 2004 by the desire to celebrate and promote the cultural and artistic wealth of the city of Daoukro and the entire Iffou region in Cote d 'Ivoire. Born of a local initiative, the festival quickly became a must-see event in the Ivorian cultural landscape.
An Ambitious Mission
FICAD's mission is to enhance cultural heritage, promote exchanges between peoples and contribute to the economic development of the region through culture and the arts.
Objectives of FICAD
- Promoting the culture and traditions of Daoukro and the Iffou region
- Favoriser le dialogue interculturel et le rapprochement des peuples
- Contribuer au developpement economique local par le tourisme culturel
- Offrir une vitrine aux artistes locaux et internationaux
- Preserver et transmettre le patrimoine culturel aux generations futures
A National Record
Over the years, FICAD has established itself as one of the largest cultural festivals in Cote d 'Ivoire. With more than 21 successful editions, it holds the record for the most regular and oldest festival in its category at the national level.
21
Editions
100 000
Festivaliers
500+
Emplois crees
100+
Stands exposants
The Leadership
FICAD is led by a team of enthusiasts, under the direction of the Festival's Commissioner General. Their commitment and vision allowed the festival to grow and shine well beyond the borders of Daoukro, attracting national and international partners.
The Lighthouse Activities
Each edition of FICAD offers a rich and varied programme including giant concerts with national and international artists, a trade, craft and gastronomic fair, traditional theatre, tales and dances, a village carnival, free medical days, seminars and conferences, as well as many other cultural and festive activities.
TYPICAL PROGRAMME
- Concerts et spectacles d'artistes nationaux et internationaux
- Defile de mode africaine et exposition d'art contemporain
- Conference et panels sur la culture et le developpement
- Foire artisanale et gastronomique
- Competitions sportives et jeux traditionnels
- Caravane culturelle a travers les villages
- Ceremonie de libation et rituels traditionnels
- Ateliers de formation pour les jeunes artistes
- Projection de films et documentaires
- Exposition photographique sur l'histoire de Daoukro
- Nuit du FICAD : grande soiree de gala
Paquinou Obliged to Daoukro!
FICAD is closely linked to the celebration of Paquinou (Easter) in Daoukro. Every year, thousands of people converge on the city to experience this double celebration: the Easter festival and the festival. It is a unique moment of communion, sharing and joy that is the pride of the entire region.