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The Bole Festival will return in 2025 for its 9th edition in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, bringing together thousands of food lovers, entertainers, and cultural enthusiasts.

What started in 2016 as a small gathering of 300 people and two vendors has grown into one of Nigeria’s most recognized cultural events, attracting attention both locally and internationally.

The festival is dedicated to celebrating bole, the roasted plantain delicacy enjoyed across Nigeria in different forms. In Port Harcourt, it is famously served with spicy pepper sauce and roasted fish, while in other regions it may be paired with yam, potatoes, chicken, or groundnuts.

This variety reflects the depth of Nigerian food culture and explains why the festival has become a major attraction for those who want to experience the country’s culinary diversity in one place.

Beyond food, the Bole Festival has become a cultural movement.

It brings together music, dance, comedy, fashion, and art, creating a lively atmosphere that appeals to young people, families, and tourists alike.

It is not only an opportunity to eat and celebrate but also a space where Nigerians connect, share experiences, and express their creativity.

The festival also boosts tourism and local businesses in Rivers State, providing income opportunities for vendors, artisans, and service providers while showcasing the city of Port Harcourt as a destination for cultural experiences.

Over the years, major brands such as MTN, Red Bull, Indomie, Jack Daniels, Tecno, and Bolt have partnered with the festival, confirming its influence as a cultural platform.

Its growing popularity on social media has also helped it gain international visibility, with thousands of people sharing their experiences online and drawing global attention to Nigerian food culture.

The 2025 edition promises to be the most exciting yet, offering ticket packages that cater to different budgets and experiences. Alongside endless servings of bole and other street foods, attendees can expect performances from popular artists, DJs, comedians, and dancers, as well as fun games and cultural showcases.

While the exact date is yet to be confirmed, it is expected to hold between late August and early September, following tradition.

Now in its 9th edition, the Bole Festival has grown far beyond a food fair.

It stands as a celebration of Nigerian identity and unity, a platform that preserves heritage, strengthens community bonds, and projects the richness of Nigerian culture to the world.