The Calabar Carnival, also known as Africa’s Biggest Street Party, has been a highlight of Nigeria’s cultural calendar since its inception in 2004. The annual event, held in Cross River State, has grown in quality and size, attracting thousands of tourists and locals alike.

The brainchild of former governor Donald Duke, the carnival was designed to promote tourism and improve the local economy. Duke’s vision was to make Cross River State a hub of tourism and hospitality in Nigeria and Africa. He wanted to create an event that would showcase the state’s rich cultural heritage and provide a platform for local artists, musicians, and performers to shine.

The carnival showcases Africa’s rich cultural heritage, with a focus on local traditions and customs. The event features music performances, boat regattas, fashion shows, beauty pageants, and traditional dances. The annual Ekpe Festival, which brings in thousands of tourists, is also part of the carnival. The festival celebrates the Ekpe masquerade, a traditional dance that is unique to the Cross River region.

The carnival features various competitions, including essay writing, football, and dancing. The five competing carnival bands – Seagull, Passion 4, Masta Blasta, Bayside, and Freedom – vie for huge cash prizes and the coveted title of champion. The bands are distinguished by their colors, with Seagull being the Red band, Passion 4 being the Green band, Masta Blasta being the Orange band, Bayside being the Blue band, and Freedom being the Yellow band.

The Calabar Carnival has gained international recognition, attracting visitors from over 15 countries. The event has hosted top artists, including Lucky Dube, Akon, and Kirk Franklin. In 2013, the carnival focused on Nigerian artists, with performances by top musicians like Davido and Tiwa Savage.

Each year, the carnival has a unique theme, aimed at promoting a specific message. Recent themes have included “Africanism,” “Humanity,” and “Agro-Industrialization.” The 2024 theme, “Our Shared Prosperity,” promises to be just as impactful. The theme is aimed at promoting unity and cooperation among Nigerians, and highlighting the importance of working together to achieve prosperity.

Despite its success, the carnival has faced challenges including a two-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The 2022 event was marred by a tragic accident, which led to the discontinuation of the Biker’s Parade. The accident, which occurred on December 28, 2022, resulted in the deaths of 14 people and injured 24 others.

Under the leadership of Governor Bassey Otu, the Calabar Carnival is set to enter a new era. With a focus on “Our Shared Prosperity,” the 2024 event promises to be bigger and better than ever. The governor has announced plans to increase the number of competing bands from five to seven, and to introduce new events and activities to the carnival.

Preparations for the 2024 carnival are already underway, with the state government working tirelessly to ensure a successful event. The Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Eric Anderson, has promised that the event will be
“reloaded and participatory,” with a focus on engaging both skilled and unskilled labor

Preparations for the 2024 carnival are already underway, with the state government working tirelessly to ensure a successful event. The Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Eric Anderson, has promised that the event will be “reloaded and participatory,” with a focus on engaging both skilled and unskilled labor. The Director General of Primary Healthcare Development Agency, Dr. Janet Ekpenyong, has assured that measures are in place to prevent the breakdown of diseases during the event.

The Calabar Carnival is a celebration of culture, tourism, and unity. It is an event that showcases the best of Nigeria
and Africa, and provides a platform for local artists, musicians, and performers to shine. With its rich cultural heritage, exciting competitions, and impactful themes, the carnival is an event that should not be missed. As the 2024 event approaches, Nigerians and tourists alike are eagerly anticipating what promises to be an unforgettable
experience.