Investigation of Seasonality Effects on Hotel Performance in Calabar, Cross River State, During the Calabar Carnival Season

This study investigates the effects of tourism seasonality on hotel performance in Calabar, Cross River State, South South Nigeria, with particular reference to the Calabar December Carnival season. The festival generates significant hotel demand annually, but the concentration of tourist activity in December raises sustainability questions for year-round hotel operations. A descriptive survey design is adopted, with questionnaires administered to general managers and revenue officers of 15 hotels during both carnival and non-carnival periods. Performance metrics assessed include occupancy rate, average daily rate, revenue per available room, and staff retention patterns. Findings reveal a dramatic seasonal dichotomy, with December occupancy averaging 94 percent and average daily rates increasing by 120 percent above the annual baseline. In contrast, average occupancy during off-peak months falls below 31 percent, with several hotels operating below break-even. High seasonal dependence creates financial vulnerability and complicates staff scheduling and retention planning. The study recommends development of complementary events and conference tourism products to sustain hotel demand in off-peak months, reduced December rate hikes to encourage longer stays, and a Cross River State Tourism Bureau year-round destination marketing campaign. Revenue smoothing financial planning strategies for hotel operators are also strongly advised. Keywords: seasonality, hotel performance, Calabar Carnival, revenue management, Cross River State