A Review of the Shao Mass Wedding as a Potential Traditional Tourist Attraction

Abstract

The study showcased Awon mass wedding as a tourism potential that is yet to be fully recognized by the people of Shao and the Kwara state government. It is to be made known to the outside world to entice tourist influx from within and outside Nigeria and also expose the accruing social and economic benefit associated with it; if given necessary funding and promotion for both the host community and the state government alike. Field work, observation and oral interview were the research instruments used to gather information from the tourist, host community, tourist product provider, and the government officials present at the 2010 festival. These are the people who will benefit greatly from the festival, if fully harnessed. The Awon mass wedding is a colorful dance and folksongs traditional festival. The inhabitants of Shao, Moro local government area are hospitable people. The Awon mass wedding will help diversify the Kwara state economy, provide employment for youth, women and even less privileged skilled and unskilled in the community. Its sustainability will boost the tourism industry in the state.

Keywords: Tradtional, Tourism, Potential.