Ondo Govt revives Mare Festival in Idanre

News Update

THE Ondo State Government has announced the revival of the iconic Mare Festival in Idanre, a cultural and tourism event that has been suspended for some years.

The festival is now set to return this December 2025, bringing back one of the state’s most celebrated platforms for culture, tourism, and community pride.

Speaking today on behalf of the Government, the Honourable Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Hon. Afolabi Adesoji, said that the revival of the Mare Festival is in line with Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa’s vision to reposition tourism as a catalyst for economic growth, youth empowerment, and cultural renaissance in Ondo State.

According to the Commissioner, the return of the festival is not only about cultural revival but also about expanding opportunities for enterprise and investment.

He noted that the December edition of the Mare Festival will showcase the unique traditions of Idanre, promote the globally renowned Idanre Hills, and attract visitors, investors, and cultural enthusiasts from across Nigeria and beyond.

He further stated that the festival’s return will boost hospitality, entertainment, and other tourism-related industries, underscoring the government’s commitment to making culture and tourism engines of development.

The Ondo State Government assures stakeholders, cultural enthusiasts, and the good people of Idanre that preparations are already in top gear to deliver a colorful, inclusive, and memorable Mare Festival this December.