Highlights of Eyo cultural festival in Lagos

The Eyo festival is a cultural festival celebrated in Lagos State, Nigeria, and is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and symbolism. The festival has several highlights, including:

Symbolism: The Eyo festival symbolizes unity among the Yoruba people and brings people from all walks of life, including the high and the low, the rich and the poor, together. During the festival, all differences, including social status, ethnicity, and religion, are set aside, and everyone comes together to celebrate their culture and heritage.

Costumes and Performances: The Eyo festival’s performances are characterized by traditional music, drumming, and dancing, with various Yoruba instruments. The dancers move and sway to the rhythm of the music and beats, and the sight of the Eyo masquerade’s swaying costumes and solemn dances is a spectacle worth seeing.

Role in ushering in a new Oba (King): One of the major significances of the festival is its role in ushering in a new Oba (King) in the Lagos State. The festival is used as a means of cleansing the city and warding off evil spirits that might want to prevent a smooth coronation of the new monarch.

Tourism: The festival attracts tourists from various parts of Nigeria and the world, who come to witness the rich cultural heritage of the Yoruba people.

Economic Impact: The Eyo festival has helped to boost the Nigerian economy by creating opportunities for local businesses and artisans. The festival provides a platform for local artists to showcase and sell their works of art, such as beaded necklaces, bracelets, and other traditional crafts.