Africa's Biggest Street Party
Calabar Carnival 2026
26–30 December 2026 • Calabar, Cross River State, Nigeria
The Greatest Show in Africa
Every December, the city of Calabar transforms into a riot of colour, rhythm and celebration for the Calabar Carnival — the largest street party on the African continent. Running since 2004, this month-long festival draws millions of revellers to a spectacular 12-kilometre parade route where legendary carnival bands compete in a dazzling display of costumes, music and dance.
The 2026 edition carries the theme “Rethinking Our Collective Destiny”. Turquaz Travel offers curated packages for travellers from Türkiye, Africa and beyond — including flights guidance, hand-picked accommodation, airport transfers, VIP viewing and guided excursions to Cross River's natural wonders.
Carnival Programme
Culture Carnival
A vibrant showcase of Cross River's rich cultural heritage — traditional dances, folklore and indigenous performances.
Kings & Queens Night
A glamorous evening celebrating carnival royalty with pageantry, fashion and live entertainment.
Children's Carnival
The next generation takes to the streets with colourful costumes and boundless energy.
Grand Band ParadeMain Event
THE main event — a 12-km parade of the great carnival bands competing for glory before roaring crowds.
Motorcycle Carnival
Riders and stunt performers light up the route in a high-energy two-wheeled spectacle.
Street Party & Colour Run
The grand finale — an all-day street party and colour run to close out the festival in style.
The Carnival Experience
Dazzling Costumes
Thousands of performers in elaborate, hand-crafted costumes.
Music & Dance
Live bands, Afrobeats and non-stop street dancing.
Cultural Shows
Traditional performances celebrating Nigeria's heritage.
Carnival Bands
Passion 4, Masta Blasta, Seagull & Bayside compete.
Local Cuisine
Fresh Calabar seafood and authentic Nigerian flavours.
Global Crowd
Join millions of visitors from across the world.
Beyond the Carnival — Explore Cross River
Obudu Mountain Resort
Breathtaking mountain plateau with a cable car and canopy walkway.
Tinapa Business & Leisure Resort
A world-class shopping, leisure and entertainment complex.
Kwa Falls
A stunning natural waterfall surrounded by lush rainforest.
Old Residency Museum
Colonial-era history housed in a beautifully preserved building.
Mary Slessor's House
The historic home of the famous Scottish missionary.
Drill Monkey Ranch
A conservation sanctuary for endangered drill monkeys.
Know Before You Go
Reserve Your Place
Packages tailored for travellers from Türkiye & Africa