Nigeria’s festive season during Christmas is a time of unparalleled celebrations, and each region of the country has its unique way of marking the occasion with vibrant festivals.
From parades filled with music and dance to cultural exhibitions showcasing local traditions, Christmas carnivals across Nigeria offer the perfect opportunity to experience the country’s rich heritage and holiday spirit.
In this guide, we will explore some of the most anticipated Christmas carnivals across Nigeria, with detailed insights into what makes them unique.
Often referred to as Africa’s Biggest Street Party, the Calabar Carnival is one of the most anticipated festivals in Nigeria. Held annually in Calabar, the capital of Cross River State, the carnival takes place throughout the month of December, with the grand finale on January 1st. The event draws tourists from around the world and is known for its stunning parades, music, dance, and vibrant costumes.
The Calabar Carnival was officially established in 2004 by Donald Duke, the then-governor of Cross River State, to promote tourism and showcase Nigeria’s cultural diversity.
The festival serves as a platform to support local artisans, businesses, and performers while celebrating the artistic and cultural traditions of the region. Over the years, it has grown into the largest cultural and tourism event in Africa.
When does it take place?
The carnival spans an entire month, from December 1st to January 1st. With daily events, performances, and activities, it has become an essential part of Nigeria’s tourism calendar, attracting both national and international visitors.
The 2024 Calabar Carnival will focus on the theme, “Our Shared Prosperity,” highlighting unity and growth through the celebration of diverse cultures. The carnival features various exciting events, including:
Other notable events include essay competitions, football matches, boat regattas, fashion shows, and rehearsals for the grand parade. The Calabar Carnival has become a key economic driver for the region, attracting nearly a million attendees annually, supporting local businesses, and boosting tourism.
The Enugu Christmas Festival is a major holiday event in southeastern Nigeria. Held annually in Enugu, the festival transforms the city into a festive wonderland, filled with dazzling lights, live performances, and cultural celebrations. The festival runs from December 7th to December 31st, offering a month of non-stop excitement.
Festival highlights
Additionally, the festival includes fireworks nights, highlife concerts, and a vendor and business hub that supports local artisans and businesses. VIP tickets are available for some events, like the AfroBeat Lockdown Concert, adding an exclusive touch to the festivities.
The Igue Festival, also known as the Ugie Festival, is a significant cultural and royal event held in Benin City, the capital of Edo State. The festival, which dates back to the 15th century during the reign of Oba Ewuare, marks the end of the year and the beginning of a new one, focusing on thanksgiving, spiritual renewal, and prayers for prosperity.
History and significance
The Igue Festival is centred around the Oba of Benin, who performs sacred rituals for the well-being of the people and the prosperity of the kingdom. It is both a religious and cultural celebration, attracting both locals and visitors to witness traditional rites, royal ceremonies, and cultural performances.
The Igue Festival is centred around the Oba of Benin, who performs sacred rituals for the well-being of the people and the prosperity of the kingdom. It is both a religious and cultural celebration, attracting both locals and visitors to witness traditional rites, royal ceremonies, and cultural performances.
The festival runs through mid-December, with key events like:
Other events include traditional dances, music performances, art and craft exhibitions, royal palace tours, and community feasts. Fashion plays an important role in the festival, with participants wearing vibrant outfits inspired by the traditional styles of the Benin Kingdom.
The Lagos Carnival, also known as the Fanti Carnival or Caretta Carnival, is one of the most culturally diverse and lively carnivals in Nigeria. Celebrated in Lagos State, the commercial capital of Nigeria, this carnival draws inspiration from the historical connections between Nigeria, Brazil, and Cuba, especially in its music, dance, and costumes.
The Lagos Carnival originated during the colonial era when former slaves returned from Brazil and Cuba, bringing with them elements of their culture. Today, it is a vibrant blend of Nigerian, Brazilian, and Cuban heritage.
Key features of the Lagos Carnival include:
Celebrated the reign of the Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Alfred Nnaemeka Achebe. Held on October 18-19, 2024, it was a vibrant cultural display that emphasized the theme “Courage, Perseverance, and Self-Reliance”, resonating with Nigeria’s current economic and social challenges. The festival featured grand parades, traditional dances, and powerful messages, symbolizing resilience.
Key highlights:
The Ineh Festival in Ogwashi-Uku, Delta State, is an annual celebration of the Anioma culture. This year’s event, celebrated by the 13th Iyase of Ogwashi-Uku, Chief Mike Nwaukoni, was a lively carnival filled with dance and thanksgiving.
Key highlights:
The Ekpe festival in Ikwueke, a community composed of Ahuwa, Umuigu, Umuezeukwu, and Ntalaukwu, is over 156 years old and takes place annually, attracting people from various ethnic groups and regions. The festival celebrated in January, involves captivating dances and a traditional procession that showcases the community’s rich heritage.
Key highlights: