The Calabar Carnival, held annually in Cross River State, Nigeria, is one of Africa’s largest and most celebrated cultural events. Typically taking place throughout December, the carnival’s main festivities peak around Christmas and continue into the New Year, marking the holiday season with a vibrant display of music, dance, and cultural heritage.

First organized in 2004, the Calabar Carnival was created to promote tourism and celebrate the rich traditions of the Cross River region. Over the years, it has grown to become Nigeria’s largest carnival and a globally recognized festival.

A participant helps another participant tie her boots before the parade during the Calabar Carnival in Calabar.

Participants parade during the Calabar Carnival in Calabar.

Participants parade during the Calabar Carnival.

Participants pose for a photograph.

Participants dance as they join the parade during the Calabar Carnival.

Participants dance as they parade during the Calabar Carnival.

A participant poses for a photograph.

Participants parade during the Calabar Carnival in Calabar on December 28, 2024.--AFP photos

Participants parade during the Calabar Carnival in Calabar.

A participants poses for a photograph.

At the heart of the event is the grand street procession, where participants, adorned in elaborate costumes, perform traditional dances and showcase floats that reflect diverse cultural themes. This procession serves as the festival’s centerpiece, drawing massive crowds from around the world.

In addition to the grand parade, the carnival features the Miss Calabar Carnival pageant, where young women compete for the prestigious title. The event also hosts a variety of performances, including live music concerts and traditional dances. The carnival’s international appeal continues to grow, attracting performers and tourists from across the globe.

With its ever-increasing quality and scale, the Calabar Carnival has cemented its status as Nigeria’s biggest carnival and an internationally renowned festival.