This year's Calabar Carnival attracted a vibrant crowd of revellers to the streets, marking 20 years of festivities. From dazzling floats to energetic performances, the carnival showcases Nigeria's rich cultural diversity amidst a month-long celebration in December.
Calabar Carnival: A Vibrant Celebration of Nigerian Culture
Calabar Carnival: A Vibrant Celebration of Nigerian Culture
Nigeria's southern port city of Calabar comes alive as millions celebrate the annual Calabar Carnival, described as "Africa's biggest street party."
The Calabar Carnival this weekend transformed Nigeria's southern port city into a hive of colorful activity as the festivities drew up to two million attendees. Known as "Africa's biggest street party," the carnival saw a dazzling display of floats and dancers representing various ethnic groups from Nigeria, creating a lively atmosphere throughout the city.
The celebrations, organized over the month of December, included 14 participating bands performing energetic Afrobeats hits that reverberated across the streets. Attendees such as Grace Job remarked on the vibrant energy and creativity in the costumes and performances, while university student Rejoice Elemi highlighted the importance of showcasing cultural heritage through the event.
Costumes at the carnival told stories, with some design elements referencing Nigeria's historical links to the Atlantic slave trade, while others embodied colonial themes. This display of tradition and history adds depth to the event, attracting both local and diasporic visitors.
Festivities reached a crescendo with a concert featuring Nigerian music stars Runtown and Iyanya on Friday night, as well as the announcement of the Calas Vegas troupe winning the coveted title of the best carnival band for the second year running. As the event gains international recognition, Cross River State hopes to position the carnival as a springboard for tourism, drawing visitors from near and far.
Cultural celebration, historical reflections, and a festive spirit converge at the Calabar Carnival, highlighting the resilience and vibrancy of Nigerian communities on this grand stage.
The celebrations, organized over the month of December, included 14 participating bands performing energetic Afrobeats hits that reverberated across the streets. Attendees such as Grace Job remarked on the vibrant energy and creativity in the costumes and performances, while university student Rejoice Elemi highlighted the importance of showcasing cultural heritage through the event.
Costumes at the carnival told stories, with some design elements referencing Nigeria's historical links to the Atlantic slave trade, while others embodied colonial themes. This display of tradition and history adds depth to the event, attracting both local and diasporic visitors.
Festivities reached a crescendo with a concert featuring Nigerian music stars Runtown and Iyanya on Friday night, as well as the announcement of the Calas Vegas troupe winning the coveted title of the best carnival band for the second year running. As the event gains international recognition, Cross River State hopes to position the carnival as a springboard for tourism, drawing visitors from near and far.
Cultural celebration, historical reflections, and a festive spirit converge at the Calabar Carnival, highlighting the resilience and vibrancy of Nigerian communities on this grand stage.
