Calabar Carnival
Said to be "Africa's biggest street party", this festival fills the city with parades, concerts and costumed processions throughout December.
Calabar Carnival began in 2004 and is the climax of Calabar's Christmas celebrations. Throughout December there are concerts, cycling races, beauty pageants and other events. The most spectacular is the main parade held in the days after Christmas, when elaborately costumed "colourful bands" march more than 10 km along the city's main roads, drawing hundreds of thousands of spectators. The coordinates given are approximate for the main event area. Hotel prices rise sharply during the carnival, so book several months ahead. The crowds are dense, so keep an eye on your belongings and mind your safety.
Opening hours
December (main parade usually around December 27–28)
Nearby sights
- Drill Ranch Calabar (Pandrillus)
- Duke Town Church & Mary Slessor's Grave
- Watt Market
- Slave History Museum
- Old Residency (National Museum Calabar)
- Marina Resort Calabar
- Tinapa Resort
- Kwa Falls