On Wednesday, October 2, 2024, three reporters from Calabargist Media—Bro. Oja Johnson, Sis. Cynthia Maduekwe, and Evang. Samuel O.C. Imo—had the honor of interviewing Mr. Effiong Ekpenyong, JP, the Special Adviser on Event Management, Cross River State. The focus of the interview was the highlights and new plans for the highly anticipated Calabar Festival 2024.
During his speech, Mr. Ekpenyong emphasized that preparations for the festival began early this year, marked by the unveiling of the 2024 Carnival theme, “Our Shared Prosperity,” by His Excellency, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, the Executive Governor of Cross River State. This early start is a significant shift from previous years, where the theme was typically revealed much later, causing the Carnival bands to scramble to organize. The early unveiling signals the official kickoff of the Calabar Festival 2024.
The festival will feature 32 days of non-stop excitement and energy, ensuring the continuation of the Season of Sweetness in Cross River State. From November 30, 2024, the festivities will begin with the lighting of the Christmas tree at Millennium Park and across the state, including Ikom and Ogoja, to extend the celebrations to the northern parts of Cross River. Her Excellency, Rev. Mrs. Eyoanwan Bassey Edet Otu, the First Lady of Cross River State, has introduced the Ikom and Ogoja Carnival to bring the spirit of the festival to the central and northern regions of the state.
The Calabar Festival 2024 will also feature a variety of exciting events from November 30, 2024, to January 1, 2025. Highlights include the 4 Sundays Massive Gospel Concert in December, known as Voices of Paradise which will culminate in a grand finale at the U. J. Esuene Sports Stadium in Calabar. The event is a choral competition featuring both classical and contemporary choirs, with a grand prize of 3 million Naira for the winner.
Other thrilling additions to this year’s festivities include the Calabar Festival Pool Party at Calabar Stadium, the Boat Regatta, and the Calabar Festival Barbecue Night. The Pre-Festival Concert and the Big Stage at Millennium Park will also bring together the people of Cross River to celebrate and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.
Mr. Ekpenyong assured that the Calabar Festival 2024 will be one of the best in its history, promising an unforgettable experience for guests, friends, and visitors.
Stay tuned for more updates on Calabar Festival 2024.
Evang. Samuel Obinna Chukwu Imo,
Correspondent, Calabargist Media.
