Top 20 Magical Christmas Destinations in Igboland for Families
INTRODUCTION
Christmas in Igboland is more than a holiday—it is a homecoming, a celebration of culture, and a season filled with warmth, family bonding, and unforgettable moments. From the colourful masquerades to the aroma of native dishes, the Southeast transforms into a vibrant playground where families reconnect, explore heritage, and create lifelong memories.
Whether you’re seeking serene nature escapes, cultural experiences, children-friendly parks, or fun-packed Christmas villages, Igboland offers some of the most magical destinations perfect for every family. Below are 10 exceptional Christmas spots across Anambra and Enugu where your family can truly soak in the festive spirit.
SECTION 1: ANAMBRA STATE (1–5)
1. Onwa Dezember Festival
The Onwa Dezember Festival is one of the most energetic December cultural events in Igboland, celebrating Igbo music, lifestyle, and artistic expression in a modern, festive atmosphere. Known for attracting large crowds and top-tier performers, the festival blends contemporary entertainment with cultural pride, creating a lively December experience that resonates with both locals and visitors. From upbeat concerts to creative showcases, the event captures the spirit of the season with colour, rhythm, and excitement.
What to Expect:
- Live music performances featuring popular and indigenous artists
- Masquerade appearances and cultural stage acts
- Creative showcases, dance performances, and festive parades
- A vibrant food and vendor arena offering traditional and modern dishes
- Night-time entertainment, lights, and a buzzing festive ambience
If you enjoy high-energy December festivals filled with music, culture, and vibrant nightlife, the Onwa Dezember Festival delivers a memorable celebration of Igbo creativity and festive spirit.
2. Ogbunike Cave Christmas Adventure
Nothing excites children more than a real-life adventure, and Ogbunike Cave offers exactly that. During Christmas, the entrance area is livelier, with vendors, tour guides, and cultural displays that add a festive feel. Families walk down the famous 300+ steps into the lush cave valley, explore the chambers, and soak in the beauty of Igbo mythology and nature.
Why Families Love It:
- Guided tours ensure safety
- Cool, refreshing environment perfect for daytime exploration
- Offers children a sense of adventure and storytelling
Tip: Wear comfortable shoes. Bring a small backpack with water and snacks.
3. Awka Christmas Carnival & Fireworks Show
Awka transforms into a festive wonderland every December. The Christmas Carnival, hosted at major open spaces and streets, features marching bands, cultural troupes, colourful costumes, and entertaining performances for children. As night falls, the city lights up with one of the brightest fireworks displays in Igboland.
What to Expect:
- Street parades with dancers and acrobatics
- Kiddies’ games, rides, and Santa meet-and-greet
- Safe, organized environment with good security presence
- Live music, food vendors, and night markets
4. Agulu Lake Boardwalk & Resorts
For families who prefer quiet, calm destinations, Agulu Lake is a serene escape. The lakeside boardwalk is scenic—perfect for photos, evening walks, and light family picnics. The surrounding resorts offer boat rides, outdoor seating areas, and gentle wildlife viewing, including the famous crocodile sightings from a safe distance.
Why It’s Magical:
- Calm waters reflecting the sunset
- Peaceful ambience ideal for family bonding
- Great for Christmas morning or Boxing Day outings
5. Golibe Festival, Onitsha
The Golibe Festival is one of Onitsha’s biggest December gatherings, celebrating Igbo heritage through music, culture, food, and vibrant community energy. The festival transforms the city into a festive arena filled with live performances, art showcases, street parades, and a lively atmosphere that draws visitors from across the region. Originally created to revive cultural pride in Onitsha, Golibe has grown into a multi-day event that blends tradition with modern entertainment.
What to Expect:
- Colourful masquerade performances and cultural displays
- Live music concerts featuring A-list and indigenous artists
- Street parades, dance showcases, and theatrical acts
- A wide variety of food stalls with both traditional and contemporary dishes
- Lively night-time activities and festive decorations
If you enjoy energetic cultural festivals with music, art, masquerades, and plenty of December excitement, the Golibe Festival offers one of the most unforgettable Christmas experiences in Onitsha.
READ MORE: Where to Spend Christmas in the South-East: State-by-State Breakdown
SECTION 2: ENUGU STATE (6–10)
6. Ngwo Pine Forest & Waterfall
Ngwo Pine Forest is one of the most photogenic natural destinations in Igboland. Tall, majestic pine trees surround the area, creating a magical “Christmas-movie-like” atmosphere. Families can walk through the forest trails, take photos, and explore the nearby waterfall and cave.
Perfect For:
- Family Christmas photoshoots
- Nature walks with older kids
- Quiet afternoon relaxation
Note: Go with a guide for safety around the cave and waterfall.
7. Enugu Recreational Park (Former Polo Park) Christmas Village
Every December, the iconic Enugu Recreational Park becomes a lively Christmas Village filled with amusement rides, Christmas lights, colourful decorations, and children’s entertainment. It is one of the safest and most family-friendly destinations in the city.
Attractions Include:
- Ferris wheel, merry-go-round, and mini-roller coasters
- Santa’s grotto and kiddies games
- Food courts and small Christmas shops
- Evening live shows
It’s a perfect spot for families looking for a full day of activities.
8. Udi Hills Family Hiking Experience
If your family enjoys outdoor adventures, Udi Hills offers a refreshing and exciting Christmas hike. The trails are mild enough for older children, and reaching the top rewards you with breathtaking views of Enugu city.
Why Families Visit:
- Safe, beginner-friendly hiking
- Cool breeze and scenic landscape
- Great for family bonding and fitness
Pack water, hats, and light snacks.
9. Nike Lake Resort Festive Getaway
Nike Lake Resort is one of the most relaxing Christmas destinations in the region. Families can enjoy boat rides, park strolls, delicious buffets, and beautifully decorated outdoor spaces.
What Makes It Magical:
- Peaceful lakeside ambience
- Christmas-themed decorations and lights
- Children’s play areas and open lawns
- Perfect for Christmas Day brunch
10. Enugu Wonderland at Okpara Square
If you’re looking for the biggest Christmas event in Enugu, this is it. Okpara Square transforms into Enugu Wonderland every December—a massive, colourful carnival ground full of games, rides, music, cultural dances, fireworks, and food stalls.
Why It’s Great for Families:
- Very lively and festive
- Wide range of children’s games
- Evening concerts and entertainment
- Vibrant Christmas lights and funfair
It’s a wonderful place for families who enjoy crowds, fun activities, and lots of music.
SECTION 3: IMO STATE (11–14)
11. Owerri Christmas Village
Owerri always feels like a city built for enjoyment, and Christmas amplifies that energy. The Owerri Christmas Village is a colourful hub packed with lights, music, food stalls, children’s rides, art booths, and festive displays. Families can stroll through beautifully decorated sections, enjoy live shows, and let the kids participate in fun activities like face painting and kiddies’ competitions.
Why Families Choose It:
- Safe and well-organized environment
- Plenty of food options (pepper soup, grilled fish, local snacks)
- Affordable games for children
- Excellent nighttime ambience with music and lighting
It’s an easy place to spend an entire evening without realizing how fast time flies.
12. Oguta Lake Resort & Holiday Cruise
Oguta Lake is one of the most iconic natural destinations in Imo — a clean, calm, freshwater lake surrounded by lush greenery. During Christmas, the resort area becomes livelier with families boating, having picnics, and taking holiday photos.
What Makes It Magical:
- Boat cruises that feel like mini “holiday cruises”
- Playground and swimming areas for kids
- Peaceful views that help families relax away from the city rush
- Local guides who share stories about the lake’s history
It’s the perfect blend of fun, nature, and a relaxing festive escape.
13. Mbari Cultural Centre Christmas Showcase
The Mbari Cultural Centre in Owerri transforms into a family-friendly cultural attraction during Christmas. It hosts art exhibitions, traditional dance performances, craft markets, and storytelling sessions for children.
Why It’s Perfect for Families:
- Children can learn about Igbo gods, symbols, and folklore
- Beautiful sculptures and artworks for photo moments
- Calm environment for daytime visits
- Craft vendors selling handmade souvenirs
Families looking for something educational, artistic, and peaceful love this destination.
14. Orlu Christmas Street Parade
Orlu’s Christmas Street Parade is community-driven, energetic, and culturally rich. It features masquerades, age-grade dances, local music, children’s marching bands, and street food vendors. It’s the kind of place where neighbours greet each other warmly and children mingle freely in a cheerful, safe atmosphere.
Highlights:
- A blend of traditional and modern festivities
- Exciting for kids who love music and dance
- A perfect place for family bonding and capturing festive memories
SECTION 4: ABIA STATE (15–17)
15. Arochukwu Long Juju & Heritage Trail
For families seeking an adventurous Christmas with a historical twist, the Arochukwu Long Juju Trail offers a memorable experience. Guided tours take families through sacred chambers, caves, forest paths, and ancient sites tied to the Aro people’s heritage.
Family-Friendly Features:
- Guided tours ensure safety
- Rich history perfect for curious children
- Cultural storytelling that brings Igbo history to life
It’s ideal for families with older kids who appreciate educational travel.
16. Aba Amusement Park Christmas Fiesta
Aba comes alive every Yuletide, and the Amusement Park becomes one of the most visited places for families. With its Christmas decorations, carnival rides, food stalls, and funfair events, it provides a lively, colourful atmosphere for children.
What to Expect:
- Bouncing castles, slides, and mechanical rides
- Affordable entry fees and games
- Family seating areas for relaxation
- Plenty of snacks and drinks
It’s a perfect spot for a full-day outing.
17. Azumini Blue River Holiday Picnic
The Azumini Blue River is known for its unusually clear, bluish water — a rare natural wonder in Nigeria. Christmas at Azumini is peaceful, refreshing, and ideal for families wanting a quiet day surrounded by nature.
What Makes It Special:
- Canoe rides on crystal-clear waters
- Natural swimming spots
- Picnic areas shaded by trees
- Fresh palm wine and local delicacies from nearby vendors
It’s a fantastic alternative to crowded Christmas events.
SECTION 5: EBONYI STATE (18–20)
18. Abakaliki Fun City Christmas Carnival
Ebonyi’s capital hosts one of the most vibrant Christmas carnivals in the Southeast. Fun City becomes a lively event ground filled with music, stage performances, fireworks, food courts, and children’s activities.
Why Families Love It:
- Safe and secure carnival atmosphere
- Lots of games and rides for children
- Modern facilities and clean environment
- Perfect evening outing for festive entertainment
19. Ebonyi Salt Lake Christmas Picnic
A calm and underrated destination, the Ebonyi Salt Lake offers a peaceful natural escape. Families can relax by the lake, enjoy the cool December breeze, and have simple holiday picnics away from noise and crowds.
Best For:
- Quiet family bonding
- Light nature exploration
- Sunset viewing and photography
20. Afikpo Masquerade & Cultural Festival
Afikpo is known for its deep-rooted cultural heritage and vibrant masquerade tradition. During Christmas, the community hosts a spectacular cultural festival featuring masquerade displays, dance troupes, music, craft markets, and traditional hospitality.
Why It’s Magical for Families:
- Safe, community-based festival
- A colourful showcase of Igbo tradition
- Children get to learn about Afikpo masquerade styles
- Lots of food vendors and cultural souvenirs
It’s one of the most authentic cultural Christmas experiences in Igboland.
CONCLUSION
From quiet nature escapes to lively carnivals, cultural festivals, and historical adventures, Igboland offers some of the most magical Christmas destinations for families seeking connection, fun, and cultural richness.
Whether you’re exploring lakes, hiking through forests, enjoying street carnivals, or teaching your children Igbo traditions, each state—Anambra, Enugu, Imo, Abia, and Ebonyi—offers something truly special.