The third edition of the Ogbomoso Cradles Carnival will hold from December 17 to 21, 2026, with a five-day programme of cultural displays, sporting activities, traditional performances, entertainment and other events aimed at promoting the cultural heritage and tourism potential of Ogbomoso.
Chairman of the Central Planning Committee, Hon. Odebunmi Olusegun, disclosed this on Tuesday during a world press conference at the palace of the Soun of Ogbomosoland, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, Orumogege III, where the programme of activities for the 2026 edition was unveiled.
Odebunmi described this year’s carnival as another significant milestone in the effort to celebrate Ogbomoso’s identity, promote unity, empower young people and position the ancient town as a major cultural and tourism destination.
He explained that the carnival was initiated by the Soun as part of his 25-year development agenda to provide a platform for celebrating the town’s history, traditions and cultural heritage while attracting visitors, encouraging investment and creating economic opportunities for residents.
According to him, the carnival has, over the past two editions, continued to grow from an initiative to unite indigenes and showcase the community’s cultural heritage into an annual event attracting increasing attention.
He said the 2026 edition would feature activities designed to engage people across different interests and age groups.
Unveiling the programme, Odebunmi said the opening day, Thursday, December 17, would feature a carnival cycling event, tagged Gran Fondo, from Iseyin to Ogbomoso, with the take-off scheduled for 6am at the Soun’s Palace.
Other activities for the day include exhibitions of local cuisine, arts and crafts, the official opening ceremony at the Soun Ogunlola Arena, traditional hunters’ displays, Bata acrobatic dances, Ijala and Egungun performances, as well as musical entertainment.
Friday, December 18, will feature special Islamic prayers, installation of chieftaincy titles, Jumat service, Odun Oole and musical entertainment at the palace.
Activities on Saturday, December 19, will include the Ogbomoso Marathon Race, scheduled to begin at Ogbomoso High School by 7am, and the Oba Ghandi Golf Tournament at the Ogbomoso Recreation Club.
Other indoor sporting competitions, including chess, scrabble, Ayo Olopon and table tennis, will also take place at the recreation club.
The day will equally feature the grand finale of pre-carnival contests and musical entertainment at the Soun’s Palace.
Sunday, December 20, will be marked by the third coronation anniversary thanksgiving service of the Soun, followed by a book launch and public presentation.
A sensitisation and training programme for persons with autism will also hold at Oladunni Hall within the palace, while the day will climax with a musical concert and award night.
The grand finale, tagged Ajilete Day, will take place on Monday, December 21, at the Soun Stadium, featuring the arrival of guests, clubs and associations, the main Ajilete celebration, the expected arrival of the Oyo State Governor and traditional homage-paying to the monarch by various groups and associations.
Speaking further, the committee chairman called on sons and daughters of Ogbomoso, both at home and in the diaspora, to participate actively in the carnival, describing it as an opportunity for indigenes to reconnect with their roots and contribute to the preservation of their cultural heritage.
“No matter where life has taken you, your roots remain in Ogbomoso. This carnival is calling you back home,” he said.
He added that the committee was working with hospitality operators, hotels, restaurants, transport providers and other service providers to ensure adequate preparations for the expected influx of visitors.
Odebunmi also solicited the support of corporate organisations, private investors, government agencies, community leaders and individuals, urging businesses to take advantage of the carnival to promote their brands, connect with the people and contribute to the development of Ogbomoso.
He expressed appreciation to the Oyo State Government, the Federal Government, corporate sponsors and individuals who had supported the previous editions.
The committee chairman particularly commended the Soun for his vision and commitment to the cultural advancement of Ogbomoso, while acknowledging the contributions of the Oyo State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Hon. Wasiu Olatubosun, to the success of the previous editions.
He also appreciated the media for their continued support in promoting Ogbomoso and projecting its cultural heritage to the wider world.
On security, Odebunmi expressed appreciation to the Federal and Oyo State Governments for their efforts towards strengthening the security architecture in Ogbomoso, assuring visitors of the committee’s commitment to a successful celebration.
He said the committee was determined to build on the achievements of the previous editions and establish the carnival as a lasting cultural and tourism legacy for Ogbomoso.
