Carniriv

Carniriv is a vibrant annual festival held in Port Harcourt, Nigeria, just before Christmas. This seven-day extravaganza seamlessly blends traditional cultural celebrations with the lively spirit of a Caribbean-style carnival, creating an event packed with activities that carry profound cultural and sacred significance. It also features outstanding musical performances from both local and international artists, making it a must-see event for people from all walks of life.

The festival is so significant that the Rivers State government considers it a key tourism asset, providing financial support to aid its growth with the ambitious goal of elevating Carniriv to a globally recognized tourist attraction.

Carniriv has a fascinating history. It began in 1988 under the name Rivifest and evolved into the modern carnival we know today in 2008. The festival is a celebration of the rich diversity of Rivers State, often referred to as the land of a thousand masquerades. With over 300 languages spoken in the area, the festival showcases the region's rich cultural heritage.

One of the highlights of Carniriv is the Garden City Freestyle Parade, held on the final day. During this event, various bands compete in a vibrant cultural procession through the streets of Port Harcourt. There's also the International Heritage Parade, where groups from all 23 Local Government Areas display their traditional dances and masquerade performances. International troupes participate as well, making it a truly global spectacle.

The Kids Carnival is another delightful part of the festival, emphasizing the importance of children in tourism. It offers a variety of entertaining activities for kids, ensuring they have a wonderful time while experiencing the cultural richness of the region.