Bonwire Kente weaving class and naming ceremony near Kumasi

Weave Kente and claim an African name at the chief's palace

A 5.5-hour class in Bonwire Village where you learn the three types of Kente weaving from a live guide, then participate in an Akan naming ceremony conducted by the village chief and queen-mother at the palace, receiving a certificate with your new soul name and family name. Pickup from Kumasi is included, along with a local meal and bottled water.

Step-by-step itinerary

Visit Bonwire Village and Naming Ceremony

• Learn about Kente cloth weaving
• Experience Akan Naming Ceremony
• Receive traditional name certificate

The Experience

Bonwire Village is where Kente cloth was invented, and the class teaches you how the three types (single, double, and triple weaving) each carry their own meaning and technique. A live guide walks you through the weaving process and the history behind the cloth, so you understand what you're making as you work through it.

The naming ceremony happens at Bonwire Palace with the chief and queen-mother presiding. They conduct a traditional blessing and prayer, then give you two names: your soul name and a family name. You leave with a certificate printed with both, a tangible record of the moment. The day includes a local meal and bottled water. An air-conditioned vehicle picks you up from your Kumasi location and brings you back.

What’s included

• Bottled water and a local meal.
• air-conditioned vehicle with pickup from Kumasi.
• live guide in English throughout the weaving instruction and ceremony.
• naming ceremony certificate with your new African names printed on it.

Days and timesDaily

Ages18 to 60 years · 6 to 17 years · Under 6 — No ticket type: can't be added to a booking

Meeting point and pickupHotel pickup4 pickup points to choose from.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated yesterday

Good to know

Easy physical levelWheelchair accessibleInfant seats availablePets welcomePublic transport nearbyNot for pregnant travelersNot for heart conditionsNot for back problemsInfants must sit on laps

Operated by Beyond the return 2020

Is this one for you?The day is paced for learning and ceremony rather than rushing between sites, so you have time to absorb both the weaving technique and the significance of the naming ritual without feeling hurried.

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Top questions

Can children come?

6 to 17 years. Under 6: no ticket type, they can't be added to a booking.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24h before the start.

What exactly do I learn about Kente weaving in the class?

The guide teaches you the three distinct types of Kente cloth (single, double, and triple weaving), and explains the meaning behind each one. You learn how they are woven differently and what makes each type significant in Akan culture.

What happens during the naming ceremony at the palace?

The chief and queen-mother of Bonwire conduct the ceremony inside the palace, offering prayers and blessings for you. They assign you a soul name and a family name rooted in Akan tradition, and you receive a printed certificate with both names on it.

Is pickup from my hotel included, and what time does the experience start?

Yes, pickup from your Kumasi location is included in the booking. The full experience runs 5.5 hours. Confirm your pickup time and hotel address when you reserve.