Calabar Carnival, December street festival in Calabar, Nigeria
Calabar Carnival is a December festival in Nigeria featuring five competing dance bands, each with around 3,000 participants dressed in elaborate costumes. These groups perform choreographed processions along set routes throughout the city.
The festival began in 2004 as an effort to boost tourism and create economic opportunities in the region. This initiative transformed Calabar into a major event destination.
The festival displays Nigerian heritage through traditional dances and music that reflect local identity. Masqueraders and regional food stalls shape the street experience throughout the celebration.
December brings around two million visitors to Calabar, so accommodation should be booked several months ahead. The city becomes very crowded during this time, making early planning essential.
The festival includes separate events like the Bikers Parade and Children's Carnival scheduled on different days throughout December. These distinct programs give visitors multiple chances to experience different aspects of the celebration.
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