The streets of Calabar, Nigeria, transformed this weekend as Christmas revelers gathered for the highly anticipated carnival, proudly known as "Africa's biggest street party." The event, which takes place in the southern port city, drew an astounding estimated two million attendees to participate in this month-long December celebration, rich with the diverse cultural heritage of Nigeria's ethnic groups.
This year’s carnival featured 14 lively bands competing with creative floats and energetic performances. Attendees were immersed in Afrobeats that echoed through the streets from enormous speakers, with Grace Job, a vibrant participant, marveling at the "different designs, different costumes" on display. The Carnival not only entertains but also serves as a platform to reflect on history; some costumes resonated with the city's connections to the Atlantic slave trade through symbolic designs like manillas.
A special concert in Calabar showcased top Nigerian artists Runtown and Iyanya, delighting the audience with their performances. Calas Vegas earned the title of 'best carnival band' for the second consecutive year, underlining the competitive spirit that defines the celebration. Cross River State officials view the carnival as a prime opportunity to attract visitors, both local and from around the world, fostering unity and cultural appreciation amidst a festive atmosphere.
