Edo State is gearing up to host one of the most anticipated cultural spectacles in Nigeria as it announces the return of the Edo Carnival 2025, themed “Illuminating Heritage, Celebrating Today.” Scheduled to take place in December, the week-long festival promises a breathtaking showcase of culture, music, fashion, food, and entertainment with a modern twist.
Organizers revealed that this year’s edition will be bigger, bolder, and more immersive, celebrating Edo’s rich cultural legacy while spotlighting contemporary talent and creativity. From traditional masquerade parades and royalty-inspired pageantry to beer barns, talent quests, and art installations, the carnival is designed to deliver seven unforgettable days of cultural magic.
“Edo Carnival 2025 is not just a festival it’s a movement. We’re blending ancestral traditions with today’s rhythm, and everyone is invited,” said Mrs. Ivie Omoregie, Head of the Edo Carnival Planning Committee.
Highlights of the 2025 lineup include: “Edo’s Got Vibes” Talent Quest, featuring dancers, vocalists, comedians, and spoken word artists from across the state. Royal Processions & Costume Parades that draw inspiration from the ancient Benin Kingdom. Craft & Cuisine Village, showcasing local dishes, palm wine tastings, and artisan stalls. Nightly concerts featuring top Nigerian and African performers alongside homegrown stars. Edo Beer Barn a chill-out arena blending live Afrobeat with premium local brews.
The festival will span multiple locations, including King’s Square, the Oba’s Palace grounds, and cultural corridors in Uselu, Oredo, and Ekpoma, allowing both locals and tourists to experience the full cultural breadth of the state.
Governor Godwin Obaseki, in a press release, described the carnival as a strategic part of Edo’s cultural tourism agenda.
“Edo Carnival 2025 will not only promote heritage and unity, but also drive tourism, boost small businesses, and engage our youth meaningfully.”
Thousands of visitors are expected to flock to Benin City and its surrounding areas, and the Edo State Tourism Board has partnered with hotels, airlines, and transport providers to ensure smooth logistics. The festival’s theme, “Illuminating Heritage, Celebrating Today,” speaks to the desire of a new generation of Edo youth to honor their past while expressing themselves freely in the present.
