By Sharon Zoe Williams
The Ankos Festival, a vibrant celebration of culture and unity, ended on December 26, 2025, in Takoradi, in Ghana’s Western Region.
The annual event, also known as the Takoradi Street Carnival or Masquerade Festival, showcases Ghana’s rich cultural heritage, with masquerade groups from across the region displaying distinctive styles and traditions. The festival is deeply rooted in the cultural identity of the people of Sekondi-Takoradi. Its name, Ankos, is believed to be a corruption of the word Anchor, reflecting the city’s maritime history and its role as a major port.
The streets of Takoradi were filled with revellers eager to witness a dazzling display of costumes, ranging from traditional designs to modern fusions, each telling a unique story. Groups including Westside Classic Ladies, Canada, China and Millionaires took turns to perform, presenting intricate costumes and pulsating rhythms that kept crowds engaged into the early hours of the morning. Even at midnight, the energy remained high, with festivities showing little sign of slowing down.
Festival pioneers say Ankos is centred on gratitude to God, appreciation of people and communal celebration, while setting aside differences. This spirit of unity was evident as people from diverse backgrounds came together to celebrate a shared cultural heritage.
As the city transformed into a spectacle of colour and sound, thousands flooded the streets, cutting across all age groups, from toddlers to the elderly. Children as young as three were seen wearing miniature versions of their group costumes, dancing proudly alongside adults. The large turnout highlighted the festival’s growing appeal, attracting visitors from across Ghana and beyond.
Beyond entertainment, the festival also reflected a strong sense of social responsibility. Several masquerade groups used the occasion to launch charitable initiatives, distributing food and clothing to vulnerable members of the community. Others pledged support for local infrastructure projects, including renovations to schools and health facilities. These gestures reinforced the festival’s emphasis on unity and collective progress.
Key highlights of the festival included:
- Fancy dress parade: A showcase of elaborate and colourful costumes, choreographed dance routines and signature drumming styles.
- Traditional drumming and music: Performances featuring drums, brass bands and chants, alongside appearances by artistes such as Samini and Nero X.
- Community spirit: A strong display of unity, bringing together people from all walks of life.
The Ankos Festival has grown into a major tourist attraction, boosting local tourism and economic activity in Takoradi. As one of Ghana’s most anticipated December events, it offers insight into the country’s history, creativity and communal values.
Often described as one of the largest street festivals in Ghana, Ankos Festival 2025 once again highlighted the theme of unity in diversity.
