Thousands of Nigerians and friends of Nigeria from around the world and all walks of life will be coming together once again in New York City to celebrate the 51st anniversary of Nigeria’s independence. This annual parade is the “largest celebration by Nigerians outside of the homeland.” This year’s celebration will mark the 20th year of the Nigerian Independence Day Parade in New York City. The three-day celebration will be loaded with fun and excitement, with Nigerians in the diaspora joining hands to celebrate their heritage and homeland. The Organization for the Advancement of Nigeria (OAN) is hosting two events prior to Saturday's Independence Day parade in NYC:
Thursday, October 6 – Welcome Party: The proverbial red carpet will be rolled out for Nigerian youths and the young at heart coming from Europe, Nigeria, and all across North America to participate in this year’s Independence Day celebration. The reception will be held at the upscale Nigerian eatery – FESTAC Ultra Lounge located at 263 Hendrix Street, Brooklyn, NY. Time – 10 PM. Admission is free.
Friday, October 7 – Cultural Night: Nigerians will demonstrate their embrace of their rich cultures at Brooklyn College located at 2901 Campus Road, Brooklyn, NY 11210.
There will be a fashion show featuring highly talented Nigerian fashion designers and models, as well as live performances by various Nigerian artistes. The annual Miss Nigeria Independence Day Pageant will cap the highlights of the evening, with contestants representing different states in Nigeria. Special appearance by music stars Sam Klef, Emma Nyra, and Pasuma Wonder. See below for a ticket giveaway to Cultural Night from Africa.com!
Saturday, October 8, 12 pm – Parade and Festival – Nigeria Independence Day Parade will commence from East 54th Street and Second Avenue in Manhattan, and proceed to Nigeria House on 44th Street and Second Avenue. This annual parade with its now famous colorful floats and moving live music attracts public officials, tens of thousands of people in their traditional attires, various organizations and cultural groups proudly carrying their banners, and marching bands.
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