18th Sepik River Crocodile and Arts Festival returns to Ambunti

The people of Ambunti in East Sepik are preparing to welcome visitors and participants as the 18th Sepik River Crocodile and Arts Festival returns to the district from 5th to 7th August, celebrating one of Papua New Guinea's most iconic cultural events.

Held annually in the Ambunti-Drekikir district, the festival showcases the rich cultural heritage of the Sepik people through traditional performances, cultural ceremonies, canoe racing, arts and crafts exhibitions, music, and the famous crocodile skin-cutting traditions that have made the province internationally renowned.

The three-day festival is expected to attract local and international tourists, cultural enthusiasts, artists, and business representatives eager to experience the unique customs and artistic traditions that have been preserved for generations along the mighty Sepik River.

Festival Committee Secretary Jacob Marek has appealed to the people of East Sepik to extend their traditional hospitality to the many international and local visitors expected to attend this year's festival.
Marek urged communities to respect all tourists and guests throughout the three-day event, saying their experience in Ambunti would help promote the festival and the province as a premier cultural tourism destination.

"We encourage our people to welcome our visitors with respect and kindness. Many of our guests are travelling from overseas and other parts of Papua New Guinea to experience our unique culture. Let us show them the true Sepik spirit of hospitality and ensure they return home with positive memories of our province," Marek said.

He also called on participating cultural groups, vendors, transport operators, accommodation providers, and the general public to work together in maintaining a safe, clean, and peaceful environment during the celebrations.

The Sepik River Crocodile and Arts Festival has become one of Papua New Guinea's premier cultural tourism events, promoting the preservation of indigenous traditions while creating economic opportunities for local communities through tourism, hospitality, and the sale of authentic cultural products.