This year marked the 20th anniversary of the Calabar Carnival, Nigeria’s largest and most vibrant street celebration. Held in the southern port city of Calabar, the carnival has become a major highlight of the country’s Christmas season, attracting millions of visitors from both within Nigeria and the global diaspora. The festive event, often referred to as “Africa’s biggest street party,” showcases Nigeria’s cultural diversity, creativity, and rich history.
The celebration, which took place over the weekend, featured a glitzy parade with over 14 bands. Each band, composed of dancers and performers, represented various ethnic groups from across Nigeria. The streets of Calabar were energized with Afrobeats music blasting from massive speakers, creating a festive atmosphere that echoed the country’s dynamic musical landscape. The costumes were a spectacle of creativity, with intricate designs that told stories of Nigeria’s diverse heritage.
One of the standout features of the carnival was its ability to blend modern entertainment with traditional storytelling. Some costumes reflected Calabar’s deep connection to history, particularly the Atlantic slave trade, which shaped the region’s past. For example, some costumes showcased brass manilla bracelets, which were used as currency by Portuguese traders during the 16th to 19th centuries. Others referenced Nigeria’s colonial era, such as an outfit modeled after the British West Africa penny from the reign of King George VI, highlighting the country’s colonial past.
The carnival also featured performances by popular Nigerian musicians Runtown and Iyanya, who added to the vibrant atmosphere on Friday night at the stadium event. Their performances were a fitting tribute to the role music plays in the festival, further energizing the crowd and elevating the event to new heights.
The Calabar Carnival, initiated in 2004 by the Cross River State government, has become an integral part of Nigeria’s tourism landscape. The festival’s purpose is twofold: to celebrate Nigerian culture and traditions while also boosting the local economy by positioning Calabar as a major tourist destination. In addition to its cultural significance, the carnival has successfully attracted thousands of tourists and put Calabar on the map as a key event for travelers seeking to experience the richness of Nigerian heritage.
This year’s celebration saw Calas Vegas, a prominent band, claim the title of best carnival band for the second consecutive year, further solidifying its reputation as a premier event in Africa. As the Calabar Carnival continues to grow, it remains a powerful symbol of Nigeria’s creativity, unity, and cultural pride, paving the way for future generations to celebrate the country’s diverse heritage.
