- Famadihana is held every 7 years and is considered the link between the living and the dead.
- Ancestors are taken from the family tomb by family members. They are then unwrapped and placed into a new lambamena and wrapped up again. Family members will then start the celebration that includes dancing with the bodies of the ancestors before being placed back into the family tomb.
- The family will also have to provide drinks and food for all that attend.
- It is considered a serious omen if you do not celebrate Famadihana, especially if you are financially able to do so.
- Anybody in the community is allowed to attend.
- The festival starts with town officials and family elders chanting the national anthem while standing on top of the family tomb.
- The festival is based on the belief that the spirit of the dead can only pass on into the afterlife after their body has been completely decomposed.
- A lambamena or large silk shroud is replaced every 7 years to show respect for the dead because they are still viewed as members of the living.
- The dead are referred to as gods on earth and are considered the most important and authoritative members of the family.
- The burial tomb is the primary link between the living and the dead and are kept in the family for eternity.
- The land that the family tomb is located on is referred to as tanindrazana meaning land of the ancestors. This land is sacred and social and economic practices are designed to guarantee that this land will remain with the family for an eternity.