The best way to enjoy and explore Nigeria’s cultural heritage is by joining their colorful celebrations at the festivals. Amazing cultural festivals such as the Africa’s biggest Street festival in Calabar, the Osun festival of Osun State, the Eyo carnival in Lagos State. Below is a list of 5 mind blowing festivals in Nigeria.
1. Eyo Festival
One of the most unique and amazing celebrations in Nigeria. Some people called it the Adamu Orisha Play, a Yoruba festival that transforms the commercial Lagos Island to be stunning white. It attracts thousands of travelers from around the world who come to see costumed dancers or masquerades called ‘Eyo’ who perform during the festival. The processions are colourful and a lot of major roads are closed. It is strongly believed that Eyo Festival is a forerunner of the world biggest carnival in the world, the “Rio de Janeiro” Carnival.
2. The Calabar Festival
Known for their amazing performances. This is the celebration of creativity and culture that blends with both the traditional and modern lifestyle of the people of Cross River State. With long feathered headdresses, colourful costumes, the mesmerizing dancers and dance steps, the street parades and the bands attract thousands of people to it.
3. Lagos Carnival
The most colourful. Like the Calabar Carnival but slightly different, Lagos Carnival is one of the most vibrant parties in Nigeria. You can feel the excitement in the air even before the carnival kicks off yearly. People are seen travelling from different parts of the world to experience this carnival. Anybody can join in at this carnival. Make new friends and share those memorable moments with family and friends.
4. Osun Festival of Osun State
Aside all the modern and vibrant festivals, there is need to experience one of the most regarded cultural festivals in Nigeria. It usually takes place in the month of July and August every year. Off to the Sacred Forest of Osun, in a one week colourful festival to honour and reverence the river goddess, Osun of Osun State, people come here to get their solutions to their problems.
5. Agungun Festival
You may have experienced some fascinated water activities around the world but if you have not been to Agungu fishing festival, your list may not be complete. The alluring dynamics of the festival, the exciting spectators, and the anxious competitors who are ready to jump inside the river to begin their search for the biggest fish make this fishing festival extraordinary and beautiful.
