The Famous Calabar Carnival - by Ugochukwu Asiogu

Africa is a home of cultures and traditions that are not only symbolic and significant to its peoples but are also interesting and thought-provoking. Aside many other sociocultural festive displays in Africa, one has remained outstandingly relevant in the 21st century possibly as a result of its unique street-style and pattern of exposition coupled with its fine blend with contemporary trends. That one cultural display is the famous "Calabar Carnival' which is perceived to be Africa's biggest street festival of all times (AFRICAN GOAT). It is not surprising that at this point, you would be wondering what Calabar Carnival is all about and how it came to be? But do not worry, just relax and follow me. The Calabar Carnival is an annual festival that is held in Cross Rivers State, Nigeria. The event holds every December to mark the Christmas celebration. It was officially launched by the former Governor of Cross Rivers State Mr. Donald Duke in 2004 and since then, it has been consistently hosted yearly until 2020 and 2021 respectively when it was halted consequent upon the raging COVID-19 pandemic, followed by the End SARS protests that caused great panic and damages to lives and properties in the country. Howbeit, the carnival is aimed at promoting all aspects of Cross Rivers State's cultural heritage and also strengthen the  people's capacity to contribute effectively to the growth and development of the State. The carnival is planned and organised by a committee in charge of tourism and cultural activities in Cross Rivers State and every year, new and mind-blowing activities are introduced to make it more interesting for the viewers. Some of the activities that take place in the carnival include the following: carnival cup competition which is usually played by five competing carnival band namely: Seagull, Passion 4, Nasta Blasta, Bayside and Freedom. These bands are distinguished by their colours accordingly- Red, Green, Orange, Blue and Yellow. Other activities in the carnival are music and dance performances from Nigerian and international artists, fashion shows, pageantry, boat regatta, visit to the Christmas village, traditional dances and masquerading plus the famous Ekpe festival that attracts thousands of tourists and visitors into Cross Rivers State. The event hosts local and international musicians, actors and actresses, entertainers, politicians, entrepreneurs, and other renowned professionals. It has featured renowned international artists such as Akon, Lucky Dube,. Kirk Franklin, Fat Joe, Young Jeezy and many others. Indeed, the Calabar Carnival has remained one of Africa's greatest sociocultural displays that has continued to export Its it's uniqueness, glory and prestige abroad. Featured by its pomp and pageantry, dynamism and fine explosion of traditional heritage, one may not be absolutely wrong to say that the Calabar Carnival has contributed immensely in facilitating the needed peace and unity in the country. But on the other hand, could it be safe to say that it has done enough? You tell me in the comment session.

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