The Toonland Festival of Colours, a celebration of Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage, is set to light up Lagos.
According to the organisers, the event, which is scheduled for November 29 and 30, 2024, at the Tafawa Balewa Square in Lagos, promises to be a vibrant showcase of the nation’s diverse traditions.
PUNCH reports that the festival would feature cultural exhibitions, a parade of bands, music performances, and games by over 1,000 attendees representing different Nigerian cultures from the six geopolitical zones.
In an interview with Sunday Scoop, the brain behind the event, Augusta Tommey, stated that it was inspired by her love for culture.
She said, “It is a dream come true. It is something I have had it in mind for years, because I appreciate Nigerian cultures, especially when people are dressed in cultural attire. The love for culture inspired me to do this. The idea is to celebrate our different cultures in colourful attire. There will also be an exhibition of Nigerian food, art, and craft.”
On his part, the Chief Choreographer for the festival, Austine Gabriel, noted that the country’s over three hundred ethnic groups will be showcased at the event. There will also be a command performance by three hundred dancers at the spot. We are expecting about 40,000 participants at the venue, while millions of viewers will stream it online.”
Describing the festival’s significance as a cultural reawakening for Nigeria, Gabriel noted that many young people had forgotten their roots.
“This is an opportunity to draw them back,” he added.
