10 Things to Do at the Calabar Carnival in Calabar, Nigeria
The Calabar Carnival, also known as the Calabar Festival, is an annual event that takes place in the city of Calabar in Nigeria. It is a celebration of the city’s culture, history, and heritage, and it is one of the most popular festivals in the country. The carnival is held every December and is a three-week-long event. The festivities include live music, parades, art exhibitions, and more. Here are 10 things to do at the Calabar Carnival.
1. Attend the Opening Ceremony: The Calabar Carnival kicks off with an opening ceremony that features performances from local artists and traditional dancers. This is a great way to get into the festive spirit and to learn about the culture of Calabar.
2. Visit the Street Parties: During the carnival, the streets of Calabar come alive with street parties. There are food stalls, live music, and dancing. This is a great way to experience the local culture and to meet new people.
3. Check Out the Art Exhibitions: The Calabar Carnival features several art exhibitions that showcase the work of local artists. These exhibitions are a great opportunity to see the creative talent of the city and to purchase some unique pieces.
4. Enjoy the Parade of Floats: One of the highlights of the Calabar Carnival is the parade of floats. These floats are decorated with colorful designs and feature dancers, musicians, and performers. The parade is a great way to get into the festive spirit and to experience the culture of Calabar.
5. Take Part in the Cultural Activities: The Calabar Carnival also features a range of cultural activities, such as traditional dances, music performances, and more. This is a great way to learn about the local culture and to experience it firsthand.
6. Visit the Local Markets: The local markets of Calabar are a great place to shop for souvenirs and to find unique gifts. There are also plenty of food stalls, where you can sample traditional Nigerian dishes.
7. Try the Local Cuisine: The local cuisine of Calabar is renowned for its delicious flavors and ingredients. Try some of the local dishes, such as jollof rice, plantain, and fish stew.
8. Go Sightseeing: Calabar is a beautiful city with plenty of interesting sights to explore. Visit some of the city’s historic monuments, such as the Calabar Slave Museum and the Obudu Cattle Ranch.
9. Enjoy the Nightlife: Calabar has a vibrant nightlife, with plenty of bars and clubs to choose from. Enjoy a few drinks and listen to some live music.
10. Attend the Closing Ceremony: The Calabar Carnival ends with a closing ceremony that features performances from local artists and traditional dancers. This is a great way to end the festivities and to experience the culture of Calabar one last time.
The Calabar Carnival is a great way to experience the culture of Calabar and to enjoy the festive spirit of the city. Whether you’re looking for cultural activities, street parties, or art exhibitions, the Calabar Carnival has something for everyone. So, if you’re planning a trip to Calabar, be sure to check out the Calabar Carnival.