Omu Resort, a prominent organization known for promoting tourism initiatives in Africa, has announced the debut edition of the Enugu Christmas Fest.
The event, organized in partnership with the Enugu State Government, will be a 25-day spectacle of daily activities, offering unmatched entertainment. Scheduled to run from December 7th to December 31st, 2024, the festival promises a diverse range of entertainment options for residents of Enugu State and neighbouring areas, providing the perfect opportunity to unwind with family and friends.
The inaugural event will kick off with a ceremony led by the state governor, Peter Mbah, who will officially light the Christmas tree.
Expected to attract thousands of visitors, the Enugu Christmas Fest will feature a variety of programs including “African Praise Night”, an “Afrobeat Concert”, a “Highlife Concert”, and a “Food Bazaar”.
Others include a “Street Carnival”, a “Cultural Parade”, an “Art Exhibition”, a Phone Exhibition”, and a grand “Fireworks Show, all designed to captivate audiences from near and far.
In addition, the festival will include “Enugu Christmas Yadah”, and the highly anticipated “Santa Street Storm”‘ where over 100 Santa Claus figures on tricycles will parade through the state, bearing gifts for orphanages and the less privileged. The “Governor’s Red Ball”, a prestigious red-tie event, will also be part of the lineup. This gala will bring together investors, business leaders, political figures, and Enugu’s diaspora to celebrate with the governor at a dinner and awards night. Thrown into the mix is the small resort built in the heart of the city – Naira Triangle – that features a waterpark, mini golf, blade skating and more.
Speaking about the event, Emmanuella Osakwe, a member of the Enugu Christmas Fest organizing committee assured that the festival will be a memorable one.
“I assure you that we’ve made every effort to ensure that guests attending the Enugu Christmas Fest will enjoy an array of exciting activities and experiences,” she said.
On his part, Daniel Eguyenga, Project Manager of the festival expressed excitement, stating that the Enugu Christmas Fest combines entertainment with commercial opportunities aimed at boosting the state’s economy.
In his words: “There is a location called Naira Triangle, a massive roundabout where we will be installing 500,000 Christmas lights, creating a glowing ball of light. The governor will officially launch this on December 7th. It’s going to be a spectacular sight. We also have a 300-member orchestra, led by Dr. Festus Dokubo, which will perform during the festival.
“On December 14th, we will host the Governor’s Ball, but earlier in the day, we will showcase 50 export ready businesses from Enugu. Representatives from intra-African trade, the World Bank, SMIDAN, and the Central Bank of Nigeria’s export desk will be present to facilitate matchmaking between these businesses and the banking sector, with the hope of scaling them up.
“That evening, prominent guests will attend the Governor’s Ball, and we’ll also launch a commemorative coffee table book about Enugu State. Additionally, we plan to break ground for a historical and wax museum in the state. Other highlights include a carnival, fireworks, and the Santa Storm, where 100 colorful Santas on tricycles will deliver gifts to the less privileged and orphanage homes across all local governments. It’s our way of giving back—Christmas is all about generosity, Eguyenga said.
