Families are organizing themselves to enjoy a memorable Independence Day meal, setting aside a special budget for the occasion. “We want to mark the event with a festive meal to honor our National Day. I have set aside 50,000 ariary to buy a goose or a duck, depending on market prices,” says Julienne Ramanantenasoa, a retiree who just received her pension on June 17.
For others, there is no need to compromise: their budget allows for the full spread, including appetizers, starters, main courses, desserts, koba, or cakes, according to their preferences. “This holiday is as vibrant as any other major celebration. The country’s independence is significant, which is why we dedicate a substantial budget to it,” says Francky Andrianarisoa, a family man.
Poultry remains the star product for households during this festive period. “Tradition dictates that we sacrifice an animal during major holidays like this one,” notes Tsirava Behanta, a father planning to buy a turkey for the occasion.
At the market, poultry has begun to flood the stalls, with prices slightly higher than last week. Rates are determined by the animal’s weight. “The initial investment is heavy, but the quantities purchased remain limited,” explains Vololona Rambolarinoro, a poultry vendor in Andravoahangy, justifying the price hike.
Turkey and goose remain the most expensive, priced between 60,000 and 200,000 ariary, and 60,000 to 120,000 ariary, respectively. More affordable, ducks and chickens trade in similar ranges, from 20,000 to 45,000 ariary. “Chicken remains the most popular choice due to its more accessible price,” adds Vololona Rambolarinoro.
In addition to poultry, beef is also one of the main components cooked for special occasions. It is prepared in various specialties, notably shredded meat preserved in oil to enhance its flavor. One can also find pork with ravitoto, prepared with crushed cassava leaves, which is the pride and hallmark of Malagasy gastronomy.
For a true Malagasy feast, certain rituals are sacred! Around the essential mountain of rice, a symphony of flavors is orchestrated: the laoka (zebu meat, pork, or fish), traditional side dishes like brèdes, beans, or voanjobory (bambara groundnuts), not to mention the comforting romazava, pickles, and finally, a good sip of hot ranovola (rice water).
Miangaly Ralitera
Captured & Published at: 2026-06-27 08:00:04 (Madagascar Local Time EAT)
Original Source: https://www.lexpress.mg/2026/06/festivites-du-26-juin-des-familles.html