Socio-cultural significance of contemporary urban Nigerian festivals: a study of Port Harcourt Bole Festival

Abstract

Festivals are performative dimensions of cultural practice that strengthen bonds of cohesion in societies. The Port Harcourt Bole Festival is an urban event in Rivers State, Nigeria, which celebrates the local delicacy Bole (roasted plantain) and its cultural significance. Street festivals like the “Bole Festival,” are a powerful tool for building and strengthening urban community bonds, promoting social inclusion and celebrating the vibrancy and diversity of urban life. This study examines the festival's socio-cultural importance within the context of contemporary urban Nigerian festival against the theoretical framework of popular culture and place-making theories. Using qualitative instrumentations such as questionnaires and observations, this study further explores the festival's background, cultural elements, and role in promoting Nigerian culture within Nigeria and in the diaspora. The findings reveal that while the festival successfully merges traditional and contemporary cultural elements, concerns about commercialization and the dilution of its cultural authenticity have been raised. Based on the findings, the study recommends enhancing community involvement, preserving traditional elements like local cuisine, and establishing partnerships with cultural organizations to promote sustainability.