The Plateau Cultural Carnival returns for its third annual celebration, bringing together the rich tapestry of traditions, music, and cultural heritage that define Plateau State. From December 12th to 14th, 2025, Jos will transform into a vibrant showcase of unity, creativity, and cultural pride under the theme “Sounds of Plateau.”
At a press conference held this morning at the NUJ Secretariat in Jos, Debra Jalmat, CEO of Plateau Cultural Carnival, unveiled details of this year’s edition, promising the most ambitious celebration yet a testament to Plateau’s standing as a beacon of peace, culture, and diversity in Nigeria.
More than just a festival, the Plateau Cultural Carnival is a movement dedicated to preserving, celebrating, and showcasing the distinctive cultural identity of Plateau’s people. The three-day celebration serves several vital purposes
Cultural Preservation
In a rapidly globalizing world, the carnival provides a platform where traditional dances, languages, arts, and values are actively celebrated and passed down to younger generations.
Economic Empowerment
Jalmat emphasized that the carnival creates meaningful opportunities for artisans, creatives, food vendors, and local businesses to showcase their products and earn income.
Tourism Promotion
By highlighting Plateau’s natural beauty and cultural depth, the carnival positions the state as a premier destination for cultural tourism both within Nigeria and internationally.
Unity and Peace
“Through the celebration of our diversity, we strengthen the bonds that unite us and uphold Plateau as a home of peace and harmony,” Jalmat stated.
Day 1 – Friday, December 12th: Celebrity Tour & Street Concert
The carnival begins with a Celebrity City Tour (10:00 AM – 2:00 PM), featuring Nollywood stars such as Kepy Ekpenyong Bassey-Inyang, Fred Amata, Gloria Young, Tony Umez, Kalu Ikeagwu, Daniel Ikechukwu Obiora, and Chucks Chyke. These personalities will explore Plateau’s iconic tourist sites, amplifying visibility for the state.
By 4:00 PM, the city undergoes a vibrant shift as the Street Concert takes over Fwavwei Junction. This electrifying evening blends tradition with modern entertainment artists, DJs, dancers, colorful lights, and brand activations deliver a high-energy experience reflecting the youthful spirit of Plateau.
Day 2 – Saturday, December 13th: The Heart of Culture
The day opens with the Official Opening Ceremony at Jos Museum (12:00 noon), where artisans, sculptors, painters, and designers display handcrafted works, traditional crafts, and contemporary art pieces an exhibition offering both sales opportunities and global exposure.
At 4:00 PM, the signature Cultural Day Parade begins at Secretariat Junction and ends at Jos Museum. This vibrant procession showcases ethnic diversity through traditional dances, drumming, flutes, cultural costumes, floats, and celebrity appearances, all amplified by extensive media coverage.
Food lovers will enjoy the Cultural Food Experience, featuring Plateau’s culinary heritage through local delicacies, live cooking, cultural tasting, and storytelling.
The day also highlights the Schools Cultural Competition, where students compete in dance, drama, cultural exhibitions, costume showcases, secondary school cultural compilations, and the Miss Culture pageant. Activities like the Suga Warrior Bounty & Fruit Munch games further engage young participants.
The evening concludes with a moving Cultural Stage Play, depicting Plateau’s resilience, history, and unity through performance art.
Day 3 – Sunday, December 14th: Grand Finale
The carnival culminates with the Closing Celebration and Award Night at Usiju World Event Center (3:00 PM). Distinguished cultural contributors, leaders, and partners will be honored with awards including Carnival Ambassadors, Partner Recognition Awards, and Cultural Development Awards. The grand finale of Miss Culture 2025 will also be held, accompanied by music, dance, and closing festivities.
The success of the Plateau Cultural Carnival 2025 is made possible through the support of partners including the Plateau State Government, Ministry of Tourism, Culture & Hospitality, Ministry of Transport, Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, PIDAN, Integrated Dairies Ltd (FarmFresh), Expert Professionals and Business Women Network International (EPBWNI), National Commission for Museums and Monuments, Nurture the Children International, The Mayor of Housing, Valgee Transport Services, and TinCity Metro. Security agencies are also fully engaged to ensure a safe and smooth event.
“As we count down to December 12th–14th, we invite all Plateau indigenous people and lovers of culture across the world to join us in this remarkable celebration,” Jalmet concluded.
The Plateau Cultural Carnival 2025 is more than an event; it is a declaration of identity, values, and legacy. Come experience the sounds, colors, tastes, and spirit of Plateau come celebrate with us.
For partnerships, media requests, or more information, please contact the Plateau Cultural Carnival Organizing Committee.