By Onyekachi Victoria Philip
The closing ceremony of the 2026 Asun Carnival gave what many guests described as one of the most breathtaking moment ever witnessed as the world’s first-ever hilltop carnival parade came alive at the Hilltop Restaurant inside La Campagne Tropicana River Forest and Hills Resort, Itan’la, Ondo State.
Unlike conventional carnivals staged on city streets, beaches or open squares, this extraordinary procession unfolded across lush hills, with beautifully costumed performers ascending the winding pathways that lead to the mountain-top restaurant.
Hundreds of carnival performers transformed the hills into a living stage as they climbed in colourful formations, flapping giant wings and dancing rhythmically through the beautiful swimming pool leading to the hilltop restaurant, surrounded by the beautiful hills .
Leading the procession of last night carnival on the hill experience before the hilltop experience was Nigeria’s celebrated female talking drummer, Ara Thunder, whose energetic performance, accompanied by the outstanding sounds of ATunda Entertainment.
Guests had watched in amazement as the performers danced gracefully through the long ascending stairways leading to the mountain, creating an atmosphere that many described as magical.
Towering above the city, the magnificent Hilltop Restaurant offered visitors a breathtaking panoramic view of Ondo City, with rooftops stretching endlessly into the horizon which defines the hilltop moment.
The scenic location became the perfect stage for a carnival unlike any ever seen.
Every section of the hilltop venue was carefully prepared for the grand Hilltop Show, allowing guests to experience the full beauty of the Asun Carnival from one of the highest points in the area.
Following the spectacular hilltop procession, the celebration continued as performers descended from the mountains to the resort’s beautiful swimming pool, where the sparkling blue water reflected the colourful costumes against the backdrop of the surrounding hills.
With the city spread beneath them, the carnival performers continued their energetic displays, creating stunning visual moments from an elevation that allowed guests to take in the beauty of Ondo City at a glance.
ATunda Entertainment further striked the atmosphere as drummers, singers and instrumentalists blended traditional African rhythms with energetic performances, filling the hills with music and celebration.
The event attracted notable dignitaries, including the Founder of La Campagne Tropicana River Forest and Hills Resort, Otunba Wanle Akinboboye; the Executive Chairman of Ondo East Local Government Area, Mr. Joshua Ogunduyilemi; Engr. Kayode Folajogun of the Ondo Ekimogun Youth Congress; and Adelakun Victor Mobolaji, Social Director of UNIMED.
The entertainment reached another level when celebrated cultural performer Ta’asa thrilled guests with electrifying Afro-inspired dance performances that kept the audience on their feet.
Ara Thunder later returned to the spotlight, with powerful talking drum performances alongside her dancers, showcasing rich African cultural heritage through captivating rhythms that resonated across the hills.