Carnival Calabar 2025 begins with a colourful dry run as Governor Bassey Otu unveils the theme ‘Traces of Time’ and promises a vibrant cultural celebration

Carnival Calabar 2025 preparations have officially begun as Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Otu, flagged off the first dry run ahead of Africa’s biggest street party.

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The energetic event served as a vibrant prelude to what promises to be a grand celebration of unity, creativity and heritage.

Held at Millennium Park in Calabar, the symbolic flag-off rekindled excitement across the city’s 12-kilometre carnival route. Governor Otu, who cut the ribbon to launch the roadshow, expressed optimism that this year’s edition would surpass all previous ones in scale and splendour.

Describing the dry run as a “spectacular coincidence,” Otu noted that it marked a moment of reconciliation, cultural revival and a milestone — the 20th anniversary of Carnival Calabar.

“I feel very excited and so glad that this coincidence has happened. Like the Bible says, all things work together for good for those who trust in the Lord.

God knew why He made it so, that today we are not only celebrating reconciliation and unity, but also marking the 20th anniversary of the Calabar Carnival,” the governor said.

Unveiling the theme ‘Traces of Time’, Governor Otu invited Nigerians and the global community to participate in Carnival Calabar 2025, promising a more colourful, thrilling and immersive cultural experience.

“I am welcoming the whole world to Calabar: come and enjoy this great party, Africa’s biggest street party, with us. If you do not come, you are going to miss too much,” he said.

“The theme this year captures our journey through culture, creativity and transformation. You will see your heritage beautifully displayed right here in Calabar, the home of culture and heritage.”

The governor lauded organisers, band leaders and stakeholders for their commitment to preserving the Carnival Calabar legacy. He emphasised that the festival reflects the state’s “Season of Sweetness,” symbolising joy, culture and togetherness beyond governance.

“We have the biggest street party right here in Calabar,” Otu declared. “Let the world know that this season is about joy, culture and unity. Everyone must come and participate.”

The lively dry run drew dignitaries including members of the National Assembly, representatives from other state governments, traditional rulers, industry leaders and members of the diaspora community—all adorned in colourful attire to celebrate the preview of Carnival Calabar 2025.

This year’s seven competing bands will interpret the theme ‘Traces of Time’ through displays of costume, choreography and artistic storytelling, contesting categories such as Best Dressed King and Queen, Best Carnival Spirit, Best Band on the Move and Best Overall Band.

The iconic bands include Bayside (blue), Freedom (yellow), Passion 4 (green), Masta Blasta (orange), Seagull (red), Diamond (purple) and Class Vegas (gold)—each set to dazzle spectators with unique energy and creativity.

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As anticipation builds, Carnival Calabar 2025 promises to reaffirm the city’s reputation as Nigeria’s cultural heartbeat and Africa’s most spectacular open-air fiesta.