Children’s Carnival Dryrun Holds Spectators Spellbound

The Excited spectators comprising families, relatives, friends and tourists gathered at the Calabar Botanical Garden for the long awaited 2023 Children’s Carnival dryrun.

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The children, registered with the seven carnival bands and adorned in bright, shining, sequinned costumes held spectators spellbound as they showcased their talents along the float moved along the streets of Calabar, the capital of Cross River State, southern Nigeria.

The children, who were between the ages of 2 and 14 years old, full of energy and enthusiasm defied the early evening harmattan to show off beautiful dance and choreography, which awed spectators and elicited resounding applause from everyone.

Some parents on the side line praised Governor Bassey Otu for reintroducing the children’s carnival and making the event such that families can actually participate in.
One of the parents out on the streets in company of her children, Mrs. Theresa Effiong said, “I am very happy that the children’s carnival is really back. I must commend the governor for restoring our carnival. Our children are excited. You can see how eager and happy they are to be out here. In fact, my boy wants to be in the bands. I will consider that next year.”
A child, who was observed dancing on the side walk as the music reeled from one of the floats, said “I want to follow them. I like all the bands, but I want to join CalasVegas because they are shining (Gold is the main colour) and look beautiful.”

A few of the young participants could not hide their excitement as they chorused, “we are very happy to be in the carnival.”
“I waited for this day and I am glad. I can still remember waiting the carnival”, said 13 years old Stephanie, “but, for my sister, this is her first time. She is 7 years old. She likes ‘red’ so she joined Seagull and my favourite colour is purple that’s why I am in Diamond band.”
“The main children’s carnival will be the best. We are acrobatic dancers and we have the best steps to win. People should watch out for us,” said 10 year old David of Passion 4 band.
Memorable experience
Earlier, at the flag off point, the deputy governor, Mr. Peter Odey, who was billed to cut the tape rather in a gentlemanly gesture inviting the wife of a former governor of Cross River State and leader of the Bayside Band, Mrs. Onari Duke, to kickoff the 4 kilometres Children’s Carnival themed “Season of Sweetness”.
In a brief remark, the Chairman of the Cross River Carnival Commission, Mr. Gabe Onah said, “this dryrun serves as a preview of the upcoming carnival. It is heartwarming to see the children’s passion and commitment shine through, making this a truly memorable experience for everyone.”
Onah, who spoke further with journalists about the event, said “this is truly the biggest street party in Africa. It is a unifying event, a fun-filled activity for families. You can even see the crowd on the trail of the carnival float all accompanying the children to the stadium. The very little ones are eager to join in the fun and I must appreciate Governor Bassey Otu for bringing back this brand of the carnival.”
The seven carnival bands of Bayside, Seagull, Freedom, Masta Blasta, Diamond, CalasVegas and Passion 4 took the route, which started from the botanical garden on Mary Slessor Avenue through Marian road to IBB Way, to end at the U. J. Esuene Stadium.