Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.

Celebrate the unique and fascinating culture of Rabaul at the Mask Festival on the Volcanic Ash Plains.
Take a short bus transfer to Maltech School Grounds for a traditional welcome and locally-woven basket. It will contain shell money so you can purchase soft drinks, local fruits and artefacts at the designated area. Rabaul has a dual currency and the local shell money is still widely used.
The Festival starts with a traditional whip dance which is remarkable and jaw dropping. You'll see 45 minutes of amazing dance groups, elaborate and colourful head dresses, exciting rhythmic chants and action-packed dancing, with commentary from a local guide.
You are free to walk around, take photos and take part in various activities. Mingle with the Dance Master (Tene Buai), a member of a spiritual realm of dance artists. Take a short break and explore the festival grounds. See traditional cooking and a traditional shell money (Tabu) display. You may also see the dancers putting on traditional face painting. Please check with your guide before entering the traditional dance groups dressing area as some prohibit the public from seeing their preparations.
After the break there is another 45 minutes of action packed dancing by different traditional dancing groups. Be camera ready, these groups are totally different in colour, rhythm, texture, tune, decoration, traditional head dresses and attires, which are fascinating to watch.