Entertainment
Throwback Christmas: 5 Naija Experiences We Need to Bring Back
The festive season has always been a time for celebration and for some people, a time to visit with family and friends. With less than two weeks until December, we can already feel the hustle and bustle surrounding the end of the year. In the past, the end of the year was typically marked by family reunions, entertainment, religious events, and more. Even today with changing and challenging times, some of these Christmas traditions still offer unique experiences that stay etched in memory.Here are five iconic Naija Christmas experiences we need to bring back: 1. Christmas Clothes and “Show Yourself” Outings One of the highlights of a real Nigerian Christmas was getting new clothes or ‘Christmas clothes,’ as they were fondly called. Children eagerly anticipated stepping out in their finest attire to visit family, attend church, or stroll around the neighborhood, proudly showing off their new looks.Parents would take their kids to popular markets like Balogun or visit local tailors to ensure those Christmas outfits were ready before the big day. The excitement of this tradition, from the shopping trips to the grand reveal and posing for pictures on Christmas morning, remains unmatched. 2. “Flicks” on GOtvFor many families, Christmas wasn’t complete without watching special Christmas-themed TV programmes. GOtv channels like Africa Magic channels, Cartoon Network, and M-Net Movie channels brought families together with Nollywood films, cartoons, and international holiday classics. It was also customary to tune into crossover services and religious programmes, bridging faith and entertainment during the season. Watching TV as a family created shared moments of laughter, awe, and togetherness. 3. The Food and the FeastsNo Nigerian Christmas was complete without a feast that could rival a banquet. Families came together to prepare dishes like jollof rice, goat pepper soup, native soups, fried chicken, and assorted meats. For children, soft drinks and juice flowed freely, while special treats like chin-chin, buns, meat pie, and fish pie were always in abundance. One of the most cherished traditions was the task of delivering plates of food to neighbours, only to return with even more plates of goodies or, in some cases, money. This was something children looked forward to every year. The communal spirit of sharing food and joy is what makes Christmas in Nigeria truly special. 4. Village Homecomings and “I See You” Vibes For many families, December was the time to head back to the village. These trips were more than just visits. They were opportunities to reconnect with extended family, attend traditional festivals, and meet cousins who always seemed to grow taller every year. The village came alive with masquerades, storytelling, and communal feasting. A typical evening in the village involved sitting around a bonfire with a cup of palm wine, listening to elders recount tales from “the olden days.” The warmth of family bonds and the chance to experience rich cultural traditions made these trips unforgettable. 5. Knockouts, Sparklers, and FireworksA classic end-of-year experience was the sound of bangers (firecrackers) exploding in neighborhoods. From the tiny knockouts to larger fireworks displays, these colorful lights brought excitement to children and adults alike. Sparklers were also a favourite, with kids running around making dazzling patterns in the air. And of course, there was always that one ‘area boy’ who mischievously threw knockouts into unsuspecting crowds for laughs! The thrill and spectacle of fireworks lit up not just the skies, but the hearts of everyone around. Christmas in Nigeria is more than just a season. It’s a feeling. It’s a mix of nostalgia, joy, and community spirit and you can relive these cherished experiences with GOtv’s line-up of Christmas-themed content that promises to take you down memory lane while helping you create new memories with your loved ones. The Golden Window is open to all GOtv subscribers! To enjoy this special offer, reconnect or upgrade using the MyGOtv App or the USSD code *288#. You can also download the GOtv Stream app to watch your favourite shows on the go.
Entertainment
Holiday Preview: Festive Season Programmes to Watch Out for on GOtv
Imagine it’s Christmas. The aroma of jollof rice wafts through the air, kids run around in matching outfits, and the TV is tuned to GOtv Channel 3, M-Net Movies 4. But this isn’t just any Christmas morning—this one’s about to go wild. A mischievous cat wreaking havoc, Matilda bending spoons with her mind, and Babe, the pig, proving why kindness trumps all.This year, GOtv is turning your festive lineup into a whirlwind of unforgettable stories that will leave you laughing, crying, and cheering—all in one sitting. Here’s a guide to some of the festive season movies that will make your holiday season not just merry but downright legendary.🎩 Dr. Seuss’ The Cat in the Hat”Chaos has never been this entertaining!”What happens when a family’s holiday preparations meet a six-foot-tall cat with a penchant for mischief? Absolute pandemonium! From balancing teetering stacks of furniture to unleashing his Thing 1 and Thing 2 accomplices, the Cat pushes the boundaries of holiday cheer. Did you know this whimsical character has sparked debates about his “anarchic” influence for decades?This Christmas, let the Cat in the Hat remind you that sometimes, a little chaos is needed to bring families together. Catch this iconic film on Thursday, December 19th, at 12:15 pm.📚 Matilda”Who says kids can’t save Christmas?”Matilda Wormwood may be small, but her courage and wit are larger than life. Remember the scene where she finally takes a stand against Miss Trunchbull? That’s not just a victory—it’s a moment that defines resilience. This heartwarming classic proves that even the tiniest among us can create the biggest miracles.Gather the family and let Matilda inspire a holiday spirit filled with courage, imagination, and just a touch of telekinesis. This family favourite airs on Wednesday, December 25th, at 3:00 pm.🐷 Babe & Babe: Pig in the City”From farmyard hero to city superstar!”What could be more festive than the tale of a pig who defies the odds? Babe’s journey to prove his worth is a story that echoes the true spirit of the holidays: kindness, determination, and belief in oneself. In Babe: Pig in the City, the stakes are raised as our lovable hero ventures into an urban jungle.These tales are more than entertaining—they’re a gentle reminder to embrace every family member, even the most unlikely ones. Catch Babe on Monday, December 23rd, at 8:35 am, and don’t miss the sequel, Babe: Pig in the City, airing the next day, Tuesday, December 24th, at 9:00 am.🌨️ Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs”Let it rain… cheeseburgers?”What if your holiday feast literally fell from the sky? This imaginative adventure takes festive indulgence to a whole new level. Whether it’s giant pancakes or spaghetti tornadoes, Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs brings a colourful twist to the festive spirit. But beyond the fun, it’s a heartfelt story about family, innovation, and the courage to dream big. Join the adventure on Sunday, December 22nd, at 2:25 pm😂 Problem Child & Problem Child 2″When holiday chaos meets Junior…”Imagine this: one kid, two parents, and endless mayhem. Problem Child introduces us to Junior, the walking definition of “holiday surprises.” In the sequel, the laughs double as Junior’s antics escalate to new heights. It’s hilarious, nostalgic, and a perfect reminder that no family gathering is complete without a little drama. Watch the chaos unfold on Tuesday, December 24th, at 1:55 pm, followed by even more antics in Problem Child 2 at 3:25 Your Holiday Starts HereThis Christmas, GOtv isn’t just delivering entertainment; it’s creating moments you’ll treasure forever. From whimsical chaos to heartwarming tales, M-Net Movies 4 on Channel 3 has it all.So grab a plate of Christmas jollof, huddle up with your loved ones, and let the holiday magic unfold on screen. And don’t forget to tune in to GOtv Channel 3 to catch these festive classics.Don’t miss the chance to make your holiday season unforgettable. Subscribe, upgrade, or reconnect now through the MyGOtv App or dial *288#. This Christmas is not just about the presents—it’s about the stories that bring us together.
Entertainment
Your festive guide to the best Christmas-themed movies on Showmax
We are officially in the “let’s circle back after the holidays” season! And as it is tradition, we get to sit back, cozy up, and watch all the holiday movies and TV shows. Showmax has curated a delightful collection of fun and cheesy Christmas-themed films that capture the magic, humor, and spirit of the holidays.Here are five movies you can add to your watchlist this festive season:GENIEGenie is a heartwarming fairy-tale comedy from Love Actually and Notting Hill writer Richard Curtis. The film follows a workaholic man who, with the help of a genie, strives to win back his family in time for Christmas.Starring Emmy nominee Paapa Essiedu (I May Destroy You), two-time Oscar nominee Melissa McCarthy (Bridesmaids), Critics’ Choice nominee Marc Maron (GLOW), and four-time Emmy nominee Alan Cumming (The Good Wife), the film promises a magical mix of humor and heart.Genie is a must-watch holiday tale of redemption and family, directed by Love Life creator Sam Boyd.Watch the trailer here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FvDLEoxACkIFOUR CHRISTMASESBrad and Kate’s plan to avoid their families during the holidays backfires, forcing the couple to visit all four of their divorced parents.Starring Vince Vaughn (People’s Choice Award nominee), Reese Witherspoon (Blimp Award nominee), and Robert Duvall (Gotham Independent Film Tribute Award).Directed by Seth Gordon, Four Christmases won the 2009 BMI Film Music Award.Watch the trailer here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6veo6Js7HUEA HOLLYWOOD CHRISTMASJessica, a successful Christmas movie director, begins living her own Christmas movie when a handsome network exec threatens to halt production on her latest film. She finds herself juggling all the classic tropes of Hollywood.Directed by Alex Ranarivelo, A Hollywood Christmas has an 80% Rotten Tomatoes rating and has been hailed as a fun story within a story.Watch the trailer here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2QivLFy8-1UTHE GREAT HOLIDAY BAKE WARSparks and flour fly in this feel-good Christmas movie directed by Lisa France.Former pastry school rivals Julian and Brianna meet years later in a TV baking competition. Each has their plans for winning the prize money, but only one can succeed unless they work together.Starring LeToya Luckett (Grammy Award-winning R&B singer), Colton Royce, Finesse Mitchell, and others.Click for more information: https://www.showmax.com/ng/stream/movies/great-holiday-bake-war-the/d253c014-0faf-3a00-8b00-2a0a4ee077b6?CHRISTMAS IS CANCELEDWhen Emma’s father starts dating her 29-year-old high school frenemy, she embarks on a mission to break up the happy couple so they won’t have to spend the holidays together.Directed by Prarthana Mohan, Christmas Is Canceled stars a stellar cast, including Janel Parrish (To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before), Dermot Mulroney (Bastard Out of Carolina), and Hayley Orrantia (God’s Not Dead 2), among others.Watch the trailer here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1uPTTEkwDwAOther movies to look out for include Christmas Unfiltered; A Christmas Mystery and Santa Got Style.The kids are included in the fun, with movies like Kung Fu Panda 4, Tabby McTat, Wonka, IF, The Super Mario Bros. Movie, Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse, and its sequel, Across The Spider-VerseSubscribe to the Showmax Entertainment mobile plan for N1,600 monthly or the multiple devices plan for N3,500. Visit www.showmax.com/ng or download the Showmax app to register and subscribe #ShowmaxTreets.
Entertainment
Why waste your Subscription? Here’s how to get the best of it!
In this economy, you can’t be paying for things and not getting the full value. Unfortunately, that’s how most cable TV subscribers feel. It’s like there’s a lot on TV, but nothing for you. Here’s a solution to that problem. We’ve taken the time to sieve through everything, so you don’t have to. Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your GOtv subscription during the holidays.Take Advantage of the Golden Window Offer: The best entertainment sits on GOtv Supa Plus – and there’s an easy step to get there. To celebrate, GOtv is extending the Golden Window deal for Supa+ subscribers. Instead of paying the regular ₦15,700, you can now enjoy the Supa+ package for just ₦13,900. That’s where all the Premier League games sit. There’s a game almost every day this period. You also get Africa Magic Showcase for a little family drama – relive the easy-to-watch TV series, suitable for the family. Don’t miss out on this premium offer; take advantage of the savings while you can.Check Out New Channels: Why not try something new and explore different channels this Christmas? It’s a great chance to step outside your usual picks and discover some festive gems and fresh content you might not expect. From comedy specials to music concerts. For example, the Holiday Pop-Up Channel will have the most recent stand-up comedy show from Nigeria’s best stand-up Comedian – Bovi — Christmas with Bovi (December 24th–26th). It’s also better to watch the Calabar Rocks Music Concert, Naija Most Wanted, and the Akwa Ibom Christmas Carols Festival 2024 on TV than under the sun. Set Reminders for Special Movies and Shows: With all the festive activities going on, it’s easy to forget and get lost in pointless scrolling online. A simple reminder can remind you to take a break from triggering social media posts and enjoy wholesome entertainment on TV. From new Africa Magic originals like ‘The Jump’ and ‘10th Anniversary’ to classic favourites like Bad Moms and Problem Child – a classic, there’s so much to enjoy. Set those reminders so you can enjoy all the festive cheer without the fear of missing out.Host Watch Parties: The holidays are all about spending time with loved ones, and what better way to do that than by hosting a watch party? With your GOtv subscription, you’ve got everything you need for a fun-filled day. Picture this: Christmas Day, surrounded by family and friends, all gathered together to enjoy the Bovi Comedy Special—Christmas with Bovi. Whether it’s a comedy special, a classic holiday movie, or the latest Africa Magic original, there’s something to bring everyone together. So, make it a date, prepare the Christmas rice and chicken, and enjoy.Stream Online via the GOtv App: During the festive season, homes are often buzzing with family members coming together to celebrate. If your household is anything like this, the battle for control of the remote and deciding what to watch can get intense. To avoid the remote wars, you can make use of the GOtv Stream app. The real owners of the remote can watch what they want while you stream yours – everyone wins.So, go ahead and subscribe now or upgrade to unlock the cheer and excitement of the season with GOtv. Take advantage of the GOtv Supa Plus Golden Window and pay just N13,900 instead of the usual N15,700. To upgrade, subscribe, or reconnect, simply download the MyGOtv app or dial *288#. To catch up and for on-the-go viewing, don’t forget to download the GOtv Stream App and enjoy your favourite shows anytime, anywhere.
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