The Vodun Days 2027 will take place in Ouidah, Benin, from 2 to 9 January 2027. This 4th edition lasts a full week, instead of three days previously. The festival celebrates Vodun arts, culture and spirituality on the Atlantic coast, around the Door of No Return.
This guide gathers the official information available on 20 October 2026, and what is still to be announced.
Vodun Days 2027: the official dates
The official website confirms the 2 to 9 January 2027 dates. The government spokesperson, Wilfried Léandre Houngbédji, explained the longer format on 5 August 2026. He gave four reasons:
- the festival now starts right after New Year's Day;
- members of the diaspora can stay longer, as many leave before the second week of January;
- tourist flows are spread out, which eases pressure on hotels and transport;
- cultural events build up gradually before the big ceremonies of the weekend.
Public holidays in Benin in January 2027
Benin celebrates traditional religions on the second Friday of January. In 2027:
| Date | Status |
|---|---|
| Monday 4 to Wednesday 6 January | Ordinary working days |
| Thursday 7 January | Public holiday |
| Friday 8 January | Public holiday |
The extension of the festival does not create new public holidays. Expect the biggest crowds from Thursday 7 to Saturday 9 January.
Where do the events take place?
The 2027 venues are still to be announced. For January 2027, the official practical guide mentions:
- the area around the Door of No Return, with the concert stage;
- the Vodun Days village on the beach;
- the historic centre: the French Fort esplanade, the Kpassè Sacred Forest, the Python Temple esplanade and Place Maro.
Past highlights include the Great Vodun Ceremony, Zangbéto and Egungun appearances, processions from the Vodun temples and open-air concerts by the sea. Read our French guide to the Zangbéto, the guardian of the night to understand what you will see.
The detailed 2027 line-up is not yet published. The official site announces it soon.
Getting to Ouidah
- Flights: land at Cardinal Bernardin Gantin International Airport in Cotonou.
- Distance: Ouidah is about 40 km from Cotonou, roughly one hour by car.
- Transport: you can drive or use a ride-hailing service. The organisers announce a public shuttle between Cotonou and Ouidah, and secure parking.
- Visa: most non-African visitors need an e-visa. Apply at least 7 days ahead, as explained in our Benin e-visa guide.
What to book in advance
- Accommodation: hotels in Ouidah are limited. Book early, or stay in Cotonou and use the shuttle.
- Tickets: bookings go through the festival's official online shop. Prices were not published when we checked.
- Respect: some ceremonies are sacred. Ask before taking photos of worshippers and follow the guides' instructions.
For people of African descent, the trip can also be a first step towards Beninese citizenship.
Frequently asked questions
When are the Vodun Days 2027?
From 2 to 9 January 2027 in Ouidah, according to the official website. Thursday 7 and Friday 8 January are public holidays in Benin.
How far is Ouidah from Cotonou?
About 40 km, or roughly one hour by car. A public shuttle between Cotonou and Ouidah is announced for the festival.
Is the Vodun Days 2027 programme available?
Not yet. On 20 October 2026, the official website said the line-up would be published soon.
Sources: Vodun Days official website, consulted 20 October 2026 ; Vodun Days, practical information ; Bénin Web TV, 5 August 2026
Illustration photo: Door of No Return during the Vodun Days, Ouidah, by Borisghost, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons
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