Visiting the ancient city of Kano during the annual Eid festivities is an amazing experience that will leave any traveler enchanted by the eclectic fusion of African and Islamic heritage in this Northern Nigerian city of over 10 million people. The excitement goes on for five days after the holy month of Ramadan in celebrating the Eid-el-Mubarak, with several activities around this sprawling city.

To get a thorough immersion in the excitement, try getting up early on Eid day for a ride through the streets where you will surely encounter throngs of gaily dressed people – mostly men and boys – heading to the various Eid grounds for prayers. You could even visit the prayer grounds if you so wish. The people will be happy to have you around if you will display respect for their faith. Alternatively, you may return back to your hotel to prepare for the day.

The pinnacle of the daily celebrations is the “Hawa” or durbar by the Emir of Kano along with other royals of the kingdom. These events should not be missed for a trip to be memorable. The Emir rides along with hundreds or, even, thousands of horse riders in a potpourri of colors. The riders and their richly decorated horses are always a spectacle to behold.

Citizens who line the streets to pay homage to their emir are another interesting sight. The ladies in particular are fascinating and charming. Any visitor will be enamored by their modesty, simplicity, beauty and enthusiasm. This is also an occasion when the finest of traditional African attires are on display by the ladies. Beautiful henna decorations on the girls and women would leave you wandering whether they have come out for a henna party. Men should, however, be modest in interacting or observing the ladies as Kano is an Islamic society.

A good spot to observe both the procession of horse riders and the most sophisticated of onlookers is on State Road near the state Governor’s residence. Head to the street after the Eid prayer, or, better, ask some locals for the approximate time at which the Emir will pass through the street. Be sure to arrive at least 30 minutes before his majesty’s arrival. Feel free to intermingle and chat with the crowd.

For a real taste of Kano, however, do not forget to visit the old quarters of the city. It is enclosed within the ancient walls of the city built hundreds of years ago. This is also where the Emir’s palace is located.

The grand Durbar is also held at the Emir’s palace. It involves the procession of riders coming to pay homage to the Emir after his return. Thousands of citizens and visitors annually come out for this spectacle. It involves riders galloping on horseback at breakneck pace to a grinding halt before the Emir and his council sitting atop a balcony in front of the palace. You will be impressed by the display of good horsemanship at the event.

So also will the various old markets in the ancient quarter. Take time to explore the Kurmi and Kantin Kwari markets where traders have been displaying wares for hundreds of years. A visit to this city will be incomplete without seeing the famous Dala Hill and the centuries-old dyeing pits at Kofar Mata. The former is a very busy place during the Eid festivities- just like the entire city.

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