The Bado Isale Ward has emerged as the overall winner of the 2026 Kayokayo Festival Fanti Carnival Street Dance Competition, following an impressive display of culture, creativity and traditional performances during the colourful event.
Epe Insights reports that the ancient kingdom of Epe came alive as thousands of residents, visitors, community leaders and cultural enthusiasts gathered to witness one of the biggest attractions of the 175th Kayokayo Festival.
The Fanti Carnival transformed the streets of Epe into a vibrant celebration of history, culture and community spirit.
Seven wards participated in the competition, each presenting unique cultural displays that reflected the rich heritage of the Epe Kingdom.
The carnival procession began at the Oke Balogun Central Mosque and moved through major streets before arriving at the Epe Marina Waterfront.
Participants entertained spectators with colourful costumes, energetic dance performances, traditional music and beautifully decorated cultural attire.
Each ward proudly showcased its identity through creative choreography and artistic presentations inspired by Epe’s history and traditions.
Residents lined the streets to cheer participants as the carnival procession made its way through the town.
The atmosphere was filled with excitement as drummers, singers and cultural performers displayed the richness of Epe’s heritage.
Families, youths and visitors joined the celebration, creating a lively environment that reflected the unity of the community.
The competition formed one of the major highlights of the 175th Kayokayo Festival commemorating the historic arrival of King Kosoko in Epe.
Judges assessed participants based on creativity, coordination, cultural representation, costume design and overall performance.
Following the keenly contested competition, Bado Isale Ward secured the overall championship with an outstanding performance.
The ward received widespread applause for its creativity, coordination and remarkable display of Epe’s cultural identity.
Other participating wards also earned commendation for their impressive performances and commitment to preserving local traditions.
Community leaders praised all contestants for contributing to another successful edition of the annual carnival.
The Fanti Carnival continues to serve as an important platform for promoting cultural education and preserving indigenous traditions.
Organisers noted that the event also strengthens unity among the various wards that make up the Epe Kingdom.
They explained that the annual celebration provides younger generations with an opportunity to appreciate the customs and history of their ancestors.
The carnival equally promotes tourism by attracting visitors interested in experiencing the unique cultural heritage of Epe.
Local business owners also benefited from increased commercial activities generated by the influx of visitors during the festival.
Many traders recorded improved patronage as residents and tourists purchased food, clothing, souvenirs and other items throughout the celebration.
Participants described the carnival as a memorable experience that strengthened friendships and community relationships.
Youth groups applauded the organisers for creating an avenue that encourages cultural participation and positive engagement.
Traditional leaders expressed satisfaction with the successful conduct of the event and commended the peaceful atmosphere that characterised the celebration.
They encouraged younger generations to remain committed to preserving the customs and traditions that define the identity of the Epe people.
The colourful carnival also highlighted the importance of cultural festivals in promoting social cohesion and community development.
Observers described the event as another successful chapter in the celebration of the 175th Kayokayo Festival.
They noted that the impressive turnout demonstrated the growing popularity of the annual cultural celebration.
The Fanti Carnival once again showcased Epe as a destination where history, tradition and tourism come together in a remarkable display of cultural excellence.
As the celebrations continue, residents remain proud of the enduring legacy of the Kayokayo Festival and its role in preserving the heritage, unity and cultural identity of the Epe Kingdom for generations to come.
