The Cross River State Government has released the official schedule for the 2026 edition of Carnival Calabar, unveiling a packed calendar of cultural, tourism, and entertainment events leading up to the annual grand celebration.
The 2026 edition, themed “Rethinking Our Collective Destiny,” is designed to promote culture, creativity, tourism, and community participation across the state through a series of activities spanning several months.
The programme is set to begin on May 31, 2026, with the official unveiling of the carnival theme, followed by preparatory events such as fitness sessions, stakeholder engagements, competitions, and cultural showcases.
Key highlights on the calendar include the Ikbo Amaka Festival, Ikom Ogoja Carnival, Cultural Carnival, Junior Carnival, Bikers Carnival, Street Party/Colour Runs, and the Parade of the Bands, among others.
Organisers also outlined additional activities such as essay competitions, stakeholder conferences, dry runs, and community-based events aimed at increasing public involvement and tourism awareness.
The celebration will climax in December with major events including the Junior Dry Run, Cultural Carnival, Parade of the Bands, Bikers Carnival, and the widely anticipated Street Party and Colour Runs.
Officials say the expanded programme is aimed at boosting tourism, encouraging cultural expression, and strengthening Cross River’s position as a leading destination for arts and entertainment in Africa.
Carnival Calabar, often described as “Africa’s Biggest Street Party,” continues to attract thousands of visitors, performers, and cultural enthusiasts from across Nigeria and around the world.
