The Magic of Otukpo International Carnival

The Otukpo International Carnival is an annual cultural festival that celebrates the rich heritage and diversity of the Idoma people in Nigeria. The carnival features various events such as music, dance, and more. The 2023 edition of the carnival is scheduled to take place from December 22 to December 26. 

With its vibrant colours, infectious energy, and captivating performances, this carnival promises to be a truly magical experience. The streets of Otukpo will come alive with a kaleidoscope of costumes, music, and dance as visitors come from all over the world to savour the rich culture and talent on display. 

This vibrant celebration will be the perfect way to immerse yourself in the festive spirit and create lasting memories with your loved ones. So, mark your calendars and get ready to experience the magic of the Otukpo International Carnival this Christmas! 

The Otukpo International Carnival is a highly anticipated event in Nigeria which attracts thousands of visitors worldwide. It fosters cultural exchange, tourism, and economic growth, contributing to the development of the Otukpo community and Benue State.  

It is endorsed by the Federal Ministry of Information and Culture and recognized by the Benue State Ministry of Tourism and Culture, it has continued to celebrate the culture, traditions, and art of the Idoma people for the past 11 years. 

The Idoma carnival will kick off with a gospel jamboree, and a Thanksgiving event, followed by a vibrant carnival village. On December 24th, bikers will parade and a peace walk will hope to spread unity. The carnival will peak on December 25th with a parade and culture fiesta, featuring traditional Idoma costumes, music, dance, and folklore. The event aims to commemorate the carnival’s essence and promote peace among participants. 

The Nigeria Carnival Queen 2023 pageant, formerly called Face of Idoma, will crown a deserving young woman who embodies the spirit of the carnival and exhibits exceptional intelligence, grace, and beauty on December 26th, marking the grand finale of the celebration. 

To attend the carnival from overseas, there are various travel and accommodation options. Otukpo is connected by road and rail links, with the railway network currently under renovation. To reach Otukpo, fly to the airport in Abuja, Lagos or Enugu, then take a bus or taxi to the town. 

For accommodation, you can choose from a range of hotels, guest houses, and lodges in Otukpo. Some of the popular ones are Leji’s Lodge and Vanapo Holiday Resort. There are cheaper options such as motels and hostels, but these are quickly booked out in the festive season. Some people may prefer to lodge in neighbouring towns and shuttle in throughout this period. 

During the International Carnival, visitors are encouraged to explore the vibrant streets of Otukpo for a culinary adventure. Enjoy grilled meats and local delicacies, immersing yourself in Nigerian cuisine’s aromatic spices and unique flavours. Try suya, skewered and grilled, or Akara, crispy bean cakes. Don’t miss the aroma of jollof rice. 

The Otukpo International Carnival is a magical extravaganza that will leave you spellbound this Christmas! As you step into the festivities, prepare yourself for a sensory overload of culture, creativity, and captivating performances. 

Have you ever attended the Carnival? Share your thoughts below.