The Guinness Calabar Carnival sponsorship promises bold experiences as the brand leads the 2025 festival with a month-long cultural takeover
In a statement that industry observers have described as a vibrant pledge of cultural ambition, Guinness has unveiled its Guinness Calabar Carnival Sponsorship as the Official Headline Sponsor of the 2025 Calabar Carnival, one of Africa’s most iconic street festivals.
The brand announced that from 30 November 2025 to 1 January 2026, Calabar will erupt in bold creativity as Guinness rolls out 30 days of immersive entertainment, daring artistic showcases and energetic celebrations designed to elevate the festival’s global footprint.
Executives described the initiative as one of Guinness’ most expansive cultural activations to date, crafted to deliver exceptional moments to millions of attendees.
A centrepiece of the festivities will be the Guinness Shine Party on 25 December, billed as a spectacular convergence of music, visual artistry and dynamic live experiences that reflect the brand’s trademark black-and-gold identity.
Organisers say the party will serve as a creative playground for self-expression, rhythm and cultural pride.
Speaking on the sponsorship, Guinness Nigeria’s Director of Marketing and Innovations, Yinka Bakare, said the festival provided an ideal platform to celebrate African excellence.
He emphasised that the brand’s involvement goes beyond corporate presence, describing it as a commitment to “lighting up Calabar with unforgettable moments that inspire pride, connection and joy.”
This year’s carnival, themed “Traces of Time,” is set to attract visitors from across Nigeria and abroad. With Guinness at the helm, audiences can expect an elevated experience that honours cultural evolution while showcasing the dynamism of contemporary African creativity.
As anticipation builds, the brand is calling on festival-goers to arrive boldly and embrace a season filled with memories, movement and the magic of time.