1/10: Pictures of National Traditional Religions Day

...that would be, Benin Stops for Giant Voodoo Party Day!  More pictures here: Photos October to March

This man, wearing a hoop skirt and jumping around like
crazy, is a voodoo fetish (spirit).

The lady in the middle is a voodoo priestess, and she is
awesome -- you should have seen her dance moves.

Speaking of dancing... see the dust flying?  Yep, that
continued.

The scarring here is part of the initiation ritual for girls
who will later become voodoo priestesses.  I think
they go through the ritual between ages 10 and 13ish,
but don't quote me on that.  These will eventually fade and
flatten until they're just flat, shiny designs on her skin.

Future voodoo priest, dancing.

As you can see from this spirit/man's face, most
people in the parade were very, very drunk.
And very happy!