Durbar Festivals

Durbar festivals are celebrated in many Nigerian cities – Kano, Katsina, and Bida to name a few. Held at the end of the Muslim festivals of Eid al-Ftr and Eid al-Adha, the festivities include prayers and a procession of horsemen to the public square in front of the Emir’s Palace. The horsemen will race across the square, with swords drawn, and pull up abruptly in front of the Emir to salute him. Drums, dancing, and singing enhance this fascinating parade and show of horsemanship.