Photo Credits: James Oku (Facebook)
The evening commenced at 7 PM under a starry sky, with the park adorned in elaborate Christmas decorations that had been meticulously prepared in the days leading up to the event. A sea of heads—estimated by some attendees to be around 5,000 strong—gathered in anticipation, their excitement palpable as the countdown to the lighting began. The theme for this year's ceremony, "Beyond the Imaginable," perfectly captured the grandeur, blending festive cheer with a heartfelt tribute to the state's leadership legacy.
Star-Studded Guests and Honorees
One of the standout features of the night was the impressive lineup of celebrities and dignitaries who graced the occasion. The event was masterfully hosted by media personalities Nancy Isime and Ebuka Obi-Uchendu, whose charisma and energy kept the crowd engaged throughout. Adding to the glamour, music icon Timi Dakolo delivered soul-stirring performances that had everyone swaying to holiday tunes, while comedy king Bovi brought waves of laughter with his witty routines.
A particularly poignant highlight was the honoring of Cross River State's past civilian governors with the Impactful Leadership Award. Governor Bassey Otu presented the accolades to Chief Clement Ebri, Mr. Donald Duke, Sen. Liyel Imoke, and Sen. Prof. Ben Ayade, symbolizing unity and appreciation for their contributions to the state's development. Both past and present leaders were in attendance, making it a proud moment that underscored the event's theme of coming together. Celebrities touched down in Calabar earlier in the day, adding to the buzz and drawing even more crowds to the festivities.
Unforgettable Highlights
The climax of the evening was, of course, the lighting of the massive Christmas tree, which illuminated the park in a dazzling display of colors. As the switch was flipped, fireworks erupted overhead, painting the night sky and eliciting cheers from the massive crowd. Attendees described the moment as "pure magic," filled with lights, emotions, and a sense of communal warmth that perfectly encapsulated the holiday spirit.
Photo Credits: Eni Vid (Facebook)
Beyond the visuals, the ceremony featured heartfelt performances and appearances that left a lasting impression. Timi Dakolo's melodic renditions and Bovi's hilarious sets were crowd favorites, while the overall vibe fostered a sense of family and festivity—inviting everyone to bring their loved ones and join in the merriment. Social media was abuzz with videos and photos of the decorations, the star arrivals, and the explosive finale, turning the event into a trending topic overnight.
This year's tree lighting not only lit up Millennium Park but also ignited the excitement for the upcoming Carnival Calabar 2025, promising a month of cultural showcases, parades, and more holiday magic. If you missed it, fear not—Calabar's festive energy is just getting started. Whether you're a local or planning a visit, this ceremony reminds us all of the power of light, leadership, and love during the holidays. Merry Christmas from the heart of Cross River! 🎄✨
Photo Credits: James Oku (Facebook), Idorenyin Enefiok (Facebook)