Why Visit Calabar, Nigeria?

Because Calabar is considered one of the most spirited, colourful, vibrant and lively places to commemorate the festive season in Africa! You want to enjoy Christmas vibe at its peak? Then take a vacation during the Yuletide season to Calabar. Dubbed the cleanest city in Nigeria, Calabar plays host to a lot of tourists during the festivity period starting from December. The capital of Cross River State, Calabar is an important city in its own right known for its trade routes, fanciful carnivals, cuisine and closeness to the Atlantic Ocean. Calabar is next to the Cross River Delta, specifically the Calabar and Great Kwa Rivers. Asides being an important trade route, these rivers are known for fishing and a place to visit if you’re up for an eco tour!

Because the Calabar Christmas festival is an unforgettable festive experience that both local and international tourists are drawn to during this period. At this time, the city emits a festive air of celebration and joy.  Its streets are colourfully decorated with fanciful lights and Christmas ornaments animating the scene. With music renting through the air and traditional performances unfolding in the streets and parks telling the story of ethnicities that have come together to participate in the carnival. Their elaborate cultural heritage  on display saying a lot more than words and spreading happiness all around.

Because the Carnival Calabar Parade usually held close to the festive period, is regarded as Nigeria’s Biggest Street Party. It is really a sight to behold. The colourful and fanciful parade which reports say covers 12 kilometres puts on display marching and dancing groups in innovative and stylish costumes alongside lively energetic bands. The trail is visually stunning with decors that captivate as well. Don’t miss out on what is called Africa’s largest street parade party!

Because the Marina Resort in Calabar, showcases a colourful nightlife and dazzling waterfront scenery. In the daytime or nighttime feel free to take a walk and enjoy the environment. The resort offers a Slave History Museum, for those interested in history. There are various restaurants to choose from and an open cinema among other attractions. Enjoy the lighted decorated beautiful bridges and be a part of the many activities the city has to offer which sometimes include fashion shows as well as unique grill parties.

Because the Millenium Park is the place to be to participate in the commencement of the celebrations for the season. This kicks off with the symbolic lighting of the Christmas tree, which takes place annually. This tradition attracts a lot of people in and around the state as well as from other places. The Christmas tree is tall at 40 feet, lighted and embellished with colourful lights and other Christmas decorations. The firework display is breath taking. The Millenium Park area also hosts raffle draws, music concerts, and cultural events for 32 days. The Christmas tree adds to the Yuletide atmosphere and signals that the festivities have began. The Millenium Park also called 11/11, has a captivating roundabout decorated with dazzling lights that easily give off the festive ambience. The park’s landscape and greenery screams for selfie photos! Make sure to go there with a good camera and make memories.

It’s an ideal place for picnics and family gatherings. It is also used for other events particularly during the Calabar Carnival period where movies are shown at the park.

Because you have to explore the famous Tinapa located in Adiabo, Calabar. This idyllic place offers tourism and business hubs for one to enjoy. Tinapa may have a business side to it , but we are here to explore the holiday prospects and lively part of it! This resort has a lot of retail shops at the Lakeside Mall fun to go on a shopping spree. You can also lodge at the historical Tinapa Lakeside Hotel and explore the water park and entertainment areas. Enjoy a calm moment by the artificial lake or visit the Cross River National Park. Fisherman’s wharf is another exciting spot where you can try out various dishes and drinks while relaxing and soaking in activities such as fishing.

Because you get to visit the Old Residency Museum reported by media as possessing the world’s largest number of original Nigerian artifacts and documents! It’s a place to visit for people who love history. One of the most incredible things about the Old Residency Museum is that it was designed and prefabricated in Scotland, Glasgow to be precise. It was shipped to Nigeria in pieces and assembled. It is an embodiment of Calabar history. If you are the sort that is interested in history, this is a place to explore. This Museum is still situated at the old residence of the Colonial Governor at a time when the city was the first capital city of pre-independent Nigeria.

In Calabar, there is always more than enough for everyone to explore and a lot of reasons to visit this festive season. So why not jump on the bandwagon!