By Rita Okoye
Edo State is poised to shine in December with the EDO CARNIVAL 2025 SHINEfest, a week-long cultural celebration themed “Illuminating Heritage, Celebrating Today.”
Organised by Peak Rendezvous Global Limited in collaboration with the Office of the Special Adviser on Protocol to the Edo State Governor, this festival promises to be one of Nigeria’s most vibrant cultural showcases.
The event is structured in two major phases, starting with a pre-festival build-up in November. A key highlight of the early activities is the Dreamalive Talent Quest, which will launch on November 1. This competition aims to discover musical talent across Edo’s three senatorial zones, providing young artists with a platform to showcase their skills and perform at the grand finale in December.
In preparation for the main celebration, the Shine Beer Barn and Christmas Grotto will open on December 14 in Benin City.
One of the major highlights will be the Cultural Fiesta and Food Festival, scheduled for December 23 at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium. On Christmas Eve, the festivities will shift to the waterways with the Shine Boat Regatta, planned for the Ogba River or another scenic location in Edo South. This event will feature decorated boats, traditional water rites, marine-themed fashion shows, and awards for the most creatively designed vessels.
Christmas Day will showcase “Through the Eyes of Edo,” an art and craft exhibition on Igun Street, which is famous for its bronze casting legacy.
On December 26, fashion and femininity will take centre stage with the Miss Shinefest Beauty and Fashion Night. The grand finale, The Grand Shine Concert, will take place on December 27 in Benin City, featuring electrifying performances by music stars including Shalipopi, HammerBoi, and top Dreamalive Talent Quest finalists.
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