The Central Business District of Takoradi was full of excitement as vibrant masqueraders took over the principal streets to showcase their rich and beautiful cultural crafts.  

The one activity that makes Takoradi the preferred destination for Christmas celebrations in Ghana, the Westside Carnival, popularly known as the “Ankos”, brought yet another heat as many indigenes and revellers dressed in colourful and unique costumes marched and danced on the streets.  

The over 30 masquerade groups processioned through the streets accompanied by brass bands, and trumpets of local songs at different locations, with amazing dance and fancy performances.  

Some onlookers who travelled far and near to witness the beautiful scenes were thrilled by the spectacular artistic and eye-catching performances displayed by the various masquerade groups.  

A member of the Yankee Masquerade group, John Amoah, told the Ghana News Agency (GNA) in an interview that the carnival presented an opportunity for families and friends to meet and share good moments.  

He said the event also set Takoradi aside from other cities as the preferred destination for Christmas festivities, saying “As you know, the Ankos here in Takoradi make our city exciting and lively to be for Christmas celebrations, and I think everywhere is buzzing.”  

A member of the Cosmos Masquerade group, Nathaniel Egyir, who was full of excitement, said that: “Takoradi is the place to be during Christmas, and so I urge everyone that has not witnessed this before to come here and see how vibrant our city becomes during this period.” 

He continued: “While having fun and sharing the happy moments together, let us use this season to live in peace and harmony with one another, and pray that God will grant all our heart desires for the next year.” 

While the fun, excitement and buzzing went on, there was the presence of Police personnel at vantage points and some intersections to ensure orderliness and a safe entertainment environment as well as incident-free festivities for all.