Ogbomoso Cradles Carnival: Second Edition Slated for December as Committee Unveils Plans

The second edition of the Ogbomoso Cradles Carnival is officially scheduled for December, with a planning committee unveiling a full line-up of cultural, entertainment, and tourism-driven activities to elevate Ogbomosoland’s heritage and economy. The committee announced this at a press meeting in Ibadan where key stakeholders including traditional rulers, tourism officials and cultural activists gathered to review progress and finalise logistical arrangements.

Chairman of the planning committee revealed that the Carnival will span several days, featuring festivals such as the Egungun masquerade parade, the Odun Oole Oba traditional cuisine celebration, a golf tournament, stage plays, musical concerts, cultural exhibitions, and more. A concerted effort is being made to incorporate all five local government areas of Ogbomosoland, consolidate engagement with the diaspora and attract national and international guests.

The Soun of Ogbomoso praised the event’s alignment with his 25-year development plan, describing the carnival as “a unifier, a job-creator and a signal to the world that Ogbomosoland is open for culture-driven tourism.” The committee said they are engaging sponsors, coordinating with state tourism and culture agencies, and preparing themed days for youth, families and business engagement. With registration of participants and exhibition slots underway, local artisans, food vendors and cultural groups are already gearing up.

Organisers emphasised that this edition will aim higher than the maiden edition, setting benchmarks in crowd management, security, visitor accommodation and experience delivery. Several lodging facilities and city-tour packages will accompany the event to boost local hospitality and hospitality-driven growth.

In line with these goals, the committee announced sub-events: a heritage walk through historic sites in Ogbomoso, a children’s funfair, a fashion showcase featuring indigenous textiles, and a business-to-business trade fair for local SMEs. Each sub-event is designed to highlight Ogbomosoland’s strengths in agriculture, craftsmanship, tourism and youth innovation.

The committee expressed strong confidence that the Carnival will reinforce Ogbomosoland’s identity, boost internal revenue via tourism and spur community development. Members called on residents, investors and cultural ambassadors from across Nigeria and abroad to participate, engage and invest in what they describe as “more than a festival — a movement to turn culture into commerce.”