By Michelle Iracheta Aug. 26, 2019
For the third year in a row, the Nigeria Cultural Parade and Festival will take center stage in downtown Houston and thousands are expected to attend.
The city of Houston is home to the largest population of Nigerians outside the country itself, and their culture will be on full display at the festival this September, said Linda Anukwuem, executive director for We Lead International, an organization dedicated to telling the stories of the African community.
“Houston is more of a welcoming city,” Anukwuem said of why Nigerians choose the Bayou City to call home instead of larger cities in the country.
Most Nigerians in the city are concentrated in southwest Houston, she said.
“If you drive through southwest Houston, you can visit India, China, Nigeria and Colombia, without leaving Houston,” she said.
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In honor of the 59th anniversary of Nigerian Independence, Culturally Naija and WeLead is celebrating the traditions and customs of Nigerian Cultural at the 3rd annual Nigeria Cultural Parade and Festival, with more than 300 Nigerian tribes and authentic food and dances, Anukwuen said.
“We’re trying to create a true Naija experience,” she said, adding that this year’s focal point is the authenticity of the Nigerian culture.
The parade begins at 10 a.m. and is followed by the festival, she said. Attendees are encouraged to try the traditional dish Jolloff rice, authentic desserts and drinks, she said.
The festival is scheduled for Sept. 28 at 9 a.m. at 1400 Clay Street.
Michelle Iracheta is a digital reporter in Houston. Read her on our breaking news site, Chron.com, and on our subscriber site, houstonchronicle.com. | michelle.iracheta@chron.com | NEWS WHEN YOU NEED IT: Text CHRON to 77453 to receive breaking news alerts by text message | Sign up for breaking news alerts delivered to your email here.