This past weekend, the southern Nigerian city of Calabar became the epicenter of one of the country’s most highly anticipated cultural events – the Calabar Carnival. Known as “Africa’s biggest street party,” the carnival, which spans the entire month of December, has grown into a celebration of Nigerian traditions, unity, and vibrant creativity. It draws an estimated two million people annually, both from within Nigeria and abroad.
The highlight of the festivities was the grand parade, which took over the streets of Calabar with a kaleidoscope of color, sound, and movement. Floats adorned with intricate designs, along with dancers representing various Nigerian ethnic groups, participated in the lively procession. The city, located in Cross River State, has long been a cultural hub, especially for Christian communities, and the carnival has become a key event in the country’s holiday season.
This year’s celebrations marked a milestone, with the carnival commemorating its 20th anniversary. Organizers and participants alike embraced the event’s legacy, with stunning costumes and designs that showcased both traditional elements and modern innovations. Throughout the day, over 14 bands took part in high-energy performances, competing for accolades while captivating audiences with rhythmic Afrobeats, the soundtrack of the streets. Spectators joined in the revelry, dancing and singing to the pulsating tunes echoing from massive speakers along the parade route.
The carnival’s appeal was amplified by its diverse participants. A notable troupe from the University of Calabar, for instance, impressed the crowd with costumes that proudly featured the institution’s logo, a symbol of the university’s deep roots in the region. Many costumes incorporated elements from Calabar’s storied past. One design, a giant British West Africa penny, symbolized the country’s colonial history, while paying tribute to Nigeria’s eventual independence in 1960. Such cultural references added depth and significance to the celebrations, linking them to the nation’s historical journey.
“Everyone is here to showcase their tradition and culture,” said a participant in the parade. The sentiment reflected the carnival’s role as a platform for cultural expression, fostering unity and pride among the diverse people of Nigeria.
The excitement continued at a concert held in Calabar’s stadium on Friday night, where popular Nigerian musicians Runtown and Iyanya took to the stage, delighting the crowd with their performances. Meanwhile, the Calas Vegas troupe claimed the prestigious title of best carnival band for the second consecutive year, capping off an unforgettable evening of music, dance, and celebration.
As the largest carnival in Nigeria, the Calabar Carnival has not only become a national treasure but also a significant cultural event that attracts attention from Nigerians across the globe. It serves as a vibrant reminder of the country’s diverse heritage, and its success over the years stands as a testament to the enduring power of culture to bring people together.