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The peopleof Sekondi Takoradi, Effia Kwesimintsim, Shama, and Essikado Ketan collectively partake in the Christmas revelries by engaging in an annual carnival dubbed the Ankos Festival.
Alternatively known as the Takoradi Street Carnival or Masquerade Festival, this widely acclaimed celebration features numerous teams or groups adorned in extravagant attire, vying for the attention of the audience and bystanders.
Participants often showcase their dancing prowess to exhibit their talents and captivate the interest of tourists who delight in witnessing the festival as part of their Ghanaian holiday experience.
The Masquerade Festival traditionally unfolds from December 25th through the 26th each year, with the crowning ceremony taking place during the new year.
This festival has experienced remarkable growth and has earned official recognition as a key event in the annual calendar of the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture.
As the global community commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ, the sub-sector of the hospitality industry, including food vendors, bar operators, shopkeepers, restaurant owners, and hoteliers along the tourism value chain, witnesses a peak in activities through intensified marketing and sales during the festive season.
This year, the turnout has met expectations, and enthusiastic participants express contentment with the substantial number of tourists in attendance.
Masquerade balls, originating in the 15th century Carnival season, featured elaborate allegorical Royal Entries, pageants, and triumphal processions celebrating dynastic events. Over time, these balls evolved into various carnivals and spread from one country to another, including the Caribbean.
Source:Omanghana.com
