Most Gambian ceremonial occasions, such as weddings, naming ceremonies, initiation ceremonies, and other special Muslim and Christian ceremonies, are celebrated by lavish feasting, drumming and dancing.

These special occasions are also a time for having new clothes made and dressing elegantly.
As these ceremonies can be very costly, it is customary for Gambians to make contributions to the host family in the form of money or food. Anyone invited to such a celebration is expected to bring something. In addition, griots (praise singers or musicians) attending these events are traditionally given presents or money for their songs.

Gifts are given in cash or kind. Gifts range in value from any amount of money, soap, rice, sugar, fabric, kola nuts, or drinks, for example, depending on what would be helpful. Gifts are also given at holidays such as Tobaski, Koriteh, Christmas, and birthdays. People take gifts for hosts when they travel or for their families when they travel back home.

In times of disaster support is also given in cash or kind.