Swaziland's best-known cultural event is the annual Reed Dance.

Today's Reed Dance is not an ancient ceremony, but developed out of the old "umchwasho" custom.

The Reed Dance is a traditional opportunity for Swaziland's maidens to pay tribute to the Queen Mother.

In early September it is the site of the Umhlanga (Reed Dance).

The Reed Dance is in August and September.

The current King practices the ceremony, called the "Reed Dance", but has not chosen new wives recently.

With the music came the dancers, men and women in concentric circles doing the Reed Dance.

This annual ceremony, known as Umhlanga, or the Reed Dance, is the highlight of Swaziland's traditional calendar.

These facts are not lost on the Reed Dance's participants.

Swaziland's best-known cultural event is the annual Reed Dance.

Today's Reed Dance is not an ancient ceremony, but developed out of the old "umchwasho" custom.

The Reed Dance is a traditional opportunity for Swaziland's maidens to pay tribute to the Queen Mother.

In early September it is the site of the Umhlanga (Reed Dance).

The Reed Dance is in August and September.

The current King practices the ceremony, called the "Reed Dance", but has not chosen new wives recently.

With the music came the dancers, men and women in concentric circles doing the Reed Dance.

Indlamu is also the traditional short beaded skirt of young Swazi maidens during the Umhlanga (Reed Dance).

This annual ceremony, known as Umhlanga, or the Reed Dance, is the highlight of Swaziland's traditional calendar.