The festive spirit soared in Nigeria's southern port city of Calabar this weekend as revellers gathered for the renowned Calabar Carnival, often celebrated as "Africa's biggest street party." The annual event attracts thousands of participants and spectators, with reports estimating up to two million attendees this year.
The carnival, which marks its 20th anniversary, features elaborate parades showcasing dazzling floats and performers representing various ethnic groups across Nigeria. This year, 14 bands participated in the lively contests, celebrating the country's rich cultural diversity through music and dance. Attendees were treated to an array of Afrobeats, filling the streets with infectious rhythms.
Grace Job, a carnival-goer, reflected on the atmosphere: "We are seeing different designs, different costumes, and the energy is so much." With costumes that reference historical themes, from manillas linked to the Atlantic slave trade to outfits reminiscent of colonial times, participants embraced their heritage while demonstrating artistic creativity.
Adding to the carnival's entertainment, notable Nigerian artists, including Runtown and Iyanya, electrified the audience during a concert, while the Calas Vegas troupe clinched the title of best carnival band for the second consecutive year.
The Cross River State government sees the carnival not only as a celebration of culture but also as a way to attract visitors from across Nigeria and the global diaspora, further establishing Calabar as a key destination for cultural tourism.
The carnival, which marks its 20th anniversary, features elaborate parades showcasing dazzling floats and performers representing various ethnic groups across Nigeria. This year, 14 bands participated in the lively contests, celebrating the country's rich cultural diversity through music and dance. Attendees were treated to an array of Afrobeats, filling the streets with infectious rhythms.
Grace Job, a carnival-goer, reflected on the atmosphere: "We are seeing different designs, different costumes, and the energy is so much." With costumes that reference historical themes, from manillas linked to the Atlantic slave trade to outfits reminiscent of colonial times, participants embraced their heritage while demonstrating artistic creativity.
Adding to the carnival's entertainment, notable Nigerian artists, including Runtown and Iyanya, electrified the audience during a concert, while the Calas Vegas troupe clinched the title of best carnival band for the second consecutive year.
The Cross River State government sees the carnival not only as a celebration of culture but also as a way to attract visitors from across Nigeria and the global diaspora, further establishing Calabar as a key destination for cultural tourism.
