The Carnival Calabar is Africa’s biggest street party, bursting with colour, culture and creativity. This annual five-day spectacle in Calabar, Nigeria, features grand parades, dazzling costumes, energetic music and unforgettable performances. Starting on Boxing Day, it celebrates African unity and creativity while drawing visitors from all over the world for an exhilarating end-of-year experience.
History of the Carnival Calabar
The Carnival Calabar existed prior to independence. It dates, in its current form, from 2004 and was established by the then-governor of Cross River State, Donald Duke, as part of a vision to make the state Nigeria’s tourism capital. Over the years, it has grown into one of Africa’s most famous cultural celebrations. The carnival highlights the rich heritage of Nigeria through dance, art and music, showcasing the warmth and creativity of the people of Calabar.
Its blend of local and international influences has made it a true African cultural phenomenon.
About Calabar Carnival
The Carnival Calabar is nothing short of spectacular. The city bursts into life with parades, dance competitions, concerts and colourful floats that fill the streets for several days. Each day features different themed events, including the Bikers’ Parade, the Junior (children’s) Carnival, and the highly anticipated Band Parade, where the seven major bands — Seagull, Freedom, Passion 4, Bayside, Masta Blasta, Calas Vegas and Diamond —compete with amazing costumes and choreography.
The nights are alive with music from Afrobeat stars, while the air buzzes with joy, laughter and celebration.
In the weeks leading up to the main carnival, pre-carnival events take place each Sunday in December, adding excitement and energy to the city. These include cultural events, music shows and practice parades, giving visitors a taste of what’s to come. For anyone visiting Nigeria during December, this is a great way to experience the country’s spirit, rhythm and creativity.
Where does it Take Place?
The carnival parades takes place in Calabar, the capital of Cross River State, in the south-eastern part of Nigeria. Other events occur in the Cultural Centre and the Convention Centre.
To participate, visitors can contact the official Carnival Calabar website, though prices were not available at the time of writing. Local spectators usually attend for free by lining the streets for the parades. Accommodation and travel packages are available through various local tour operators.
What to Eat and Drink
Calabar is known for its cuisine. During the carnival, street food vendors serve spicy dishes such as afang soup and edikang ikong (both with different combinations of vegetables, beef and fish), and pepper soup (spicy goat soup), all bursting with local flavours. For something sweet, try puff-puff, a fried dough snack that’s light and fluffy. To drink, chilled palm wine and zobo (hibiscus tea) are local favourites, perfect for cooling off between the festivities.
What to Do in Calabar and Cross River State
When not watching the carnival, there’s plenty to explore in Calabar and beyond. Recommended visits include the Calabar Museum, which tells the story of the region’s colonial and trade history. The Tinapa Resort offers shopping and entertainment, while Kwa Falls and the Afi Mountain Wildlife Sanctuary are perfect for nature lovers. The Drill Ranch, in Calabar itself, is a great place to see endangered primates up close.
Whether it’s culture, adventure, or relaxation you’re after, Calabar and Cross River State have it all.
Flights to Nigeria
From London, direct flights to Lagos are available with British Airways or Virgin Atlantic and take about seven hours, or Abuja with British Airways. Travellers can then take a local flight to Calabar (Margaret Ekpo International Airport).
From Miami, fly to a European connection such as London (above), Paris with Air France or Amsterdam on KLM, then continue to Calabar by domestic flight. From New York, direct flights to Lagos are available with Delta Air Lines or Virgin Atlantic. From Lagos, connect to Calabar via Ibom Air. From Los Angeles, fly to Lagos via New York or a European hub.
Once in Nigeria, travellers can reach Calabar by domestic air, car, or bus services that operate between major cities and Cross River State.
Nigeria Time
Nigeria is one hour ahead of London and six hours ahead of New York during standard time.
More Information on Nigeria
Official Nigeria Tourism website: https://www.tournigeria.gov.ng/.
Calabar Carnival pictures by Ben Iwara, Unsplash.