Cross River · Cultural Festivals
Calabar Carnival
Calabar Carnival — Africa's biggest street carnival, Christmas-week.
Date
27 Dec
2026 – 1 Jan 2027
Starts
In 161 days
5 months from now
Location
Akpabuyo
Calabar Municipal, Cross River
Price
TBA
Per person
About Calabar Carnival
Cultural Festivals in Cross River.
The Calabar Carnival is widely cited as "Africa's biggest street party", held annually in Calabar during the Christmas-week. Five competing carnival bands (Bayside, Freedom, Masta Blasta, Passion 4, Seagull) parade through Calabar in elaborate costumes.
Plan your visit
Getting there, where to stay, what's around.
🗺️ How to get there
Public-transit directions to Akpabuyo with BRT, Danfo and Keke options where available.
Plan trip in commute planner →Around Akpabuyo
Places to eat, drink, and crash nearby.
Frequently asked questions
Quick answers about Calabar Carnival.
When is Calabar Carnival?
Calabar Carnival takes place on Sunday, 27 December 2026, ending Friday, 1 January 2027.
Where will it be held?
Akpabuyo, Calabar Municipal, Cross River.
How do I get there by public transport?
Use our commute planner to get step-by-step BRT, Danfo, and Keke directions to Akpabuyo. Fares and routes update in real time.
What other cultural festivals are coming up?
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