Luanda: More than 15,000 people flocked to Luanda's new Marginal Avenue on Saturday to attend the special edition of 'Carnival 50 Years', which was national and non-competitive. The event took place in an atmosphere of cultural promotion, aiming to showcase and celebrate the customs and habits of the people who share Angola's territory. According to Angola Press News Agency, Luanda's vice-governor for political and social affairs, Manuel Gonçalves, stated that the cultural festival attracted "lovers" of all ages and backgrounds and featured six to seven grandstands, each with approximately 1,300 seats, totaling over 8,000 seats. "The best of everything, from a cultural perspective, is here. This is the portrait of a people who celebrate their identity, their ancestry, and the freedom to express themselves in their own land," he explained. He further added that, combining the seating and free access areas, the number of spectators easily exceeded 15,000. Including members of the carnival groups and organizer s, the total attendance approached 20,000. "It's difficult to count who's standing, because admission is free, but it's safe to say that the celebration brought between 15,000 and 20,000 Angolans to Nova Marginal, all imbued with the spirit of celebrating Angola," he stated. The vice-governor highlighted culture as an element of cohesion and resilience, especially in times of crisis. "Culture is what unites us, because people can dance to the same music, be in the same rhythm, and share the same energy. In the country's most difficult times, it was culture that kept us going, and today, more than ever, we must value it," he emphasized. The event also served as a meeting place between generations, where young people, adults, and the elderly shared experiences, traditions, and typical dances of the country, including kazukuta, tchianda, semba, kizomba, and other regional manifestations. "It is in this intersection of generations that our true heritage lies. Seeing young people learning from their elders, danc ing the dances of their people, and recognizing the richness of their land is proof that Angolan culture is alive and evolving," he emphasized. The special edition of the carnival is part of the program for Angola's 50th anniversary of independence, to be celebrated on November 11th. Regarding Shrove Tuesday, Fátima Teixeira, from Benguela province, expressed that the off-season carnival will be a defining moment in the lives of all Angolans, and beyond, for its content, organization, and dedication. Fernando Paulo, from the province of Luanda, brought his family to the venue to provide a diverse family environment and showcase the culture of the different peoples who inhabit the country. Palmira José, from Cabinda province, was moved to see the customs and traditions of other provinces. "It's incredibly moving to see so much beauty and culture in one place. I never thought it would be so powerful to see all the provinces represented here. I'm truly experiencing Angola," she said. Domingos Manuel, 67, a Ca rnival dancer for over 30 years, emphasized that the event provided an opportunity to relive historical moments. "I danced Carnival a lot in my youth, but today I'm just here watching and feeling moved. This is more than a parade; it's a lesson in love for the country," he said. For Palmira José, more than a celebration, the Angola 50 Years Carnival was a space to reconnect with national identity. Those in attendance didn't just watch the event, they also sang, danced, and applauded, an interaction that enriched the Carnival.