Under a broad uroko tree at the Ewi's palace, the people of Ado-Ekiti gather each August to open their own new year, a custom they trace to the town's first king. Many still call the city Ado Ewi, after its king, and Ifa priests repeat an old verse that names Ado the home of Ifa.
Beyond the palace, students crowd the roads to Ekiti State University and Afe Babalola University, and pounded yam anchors lunch. The Ikogosi Warm Springs wait a short drive west. Expect a long wet season, then drier, hazier weeks from November to February. A Local Friend walks beside you through the palace grounds and market lanes, letting each story land.
