Edo State is gearing up to host what promises to be a vibrant cultural festival this December — Edo Carnival 2025: SHINEfest. With the theme, “Illuminating Heritage, Celebrating Today,” the week-long celebration aims to fuse the state’s rich traditions with modern flair, offering something for everyone — from heritage parades to high-octane concerts.
Organised by Peak Rendezvous Global Limited, in partnership with the Office of the Special Adviser on Protocol to the Edo State Governor, the carnival promises a thrilling lineup of events across music, food, fashion, art, and more.
The festivities will kick off early with a build-up phase beginning November 1. The Dreamalive Talent Quest will search for fresh music talents across Edo’s three senatorial districts, offering selected acts a chance to perform at the festival’s grand finale. That same build-up will see the opening of the Shine Beer Barn and Christmas Grotto on December 14 — a pop-up entertainment village featuring comedy nights, beer tastings, and general merriment to set the tone ahead of the main events.
From December 21 to 27, the spotlight will be on Edo’s cultural richness. The festival week opens with a colourful Heritage Carnival across three key locations, featuring masquerade displays, traditional wrestling, musical dramas, and age-grade dances that will bring the streets alive with rhythm and history.
Other events include Cultural Fiesta and Food Festival, Shine Boat Regatta on the Ogba River, Miss Shinefest Beauty, Grand Shine Concert in Benin City featuring artistes such as Shalipopi and HammerBoi, alongside Dreamalive Talent Quest finalists.
