Colourful scenes from Cape Coast’s Orange Friday

Cape Coast came alive in a spectacle of colour, culture, and heritage on Friday, September 5, 2025, as the much-anticipated Orange Friday celebrations painted the streets in vibrant hues.

The event, one of the most cherished highlights of the annual Fetu Afahye festival, drew massive crowds of locals, dignitaries, and visitors from across Ghana and beyond, all eager to partake in the centuries-old tradition of the Oguaa Traditional Area.

This year’s Fetu Afahye carried added historical weight, marking the 61st anniversary of the festival’s modern revival—a milestone underscoring its resilience and enduring significance in Ghana’s cultural calendar.

Adorned in bright orange attire, celebrants flooded the streets with energy and excitement. The city buzzed with cultural performances, traditional drumming, dancing, and music, creating an atmosphere that blended festivity with deep cultural pride.

More than just entertainment, Orange Friday reinforced community bonds, promoted unity, and offered reflection on the shared history of the Oguaa people.

A striking moment came with the reenactment of the slave trade era of the Gold Coast—a sobering yet powerful reminder of Cape Coast’s role in Ghana’s history. This act offered both locals and tourists a poignant reflection on resilience, even as they celebrated their heritage with joy and dignity.

The celebrations also highlighted the fusion of business, tourism, and culture, as traders, artisans, and vendors seized the opportunity to showcase local products, boosting the city’s economic vibrancy.

As the streets of Cape Coast swelled with dance, song, and laughter, the spirit of the festival was vividly captured by Adomonline.com’s Joseph Odotei.