What makes Lagos competition season particular is the enjoyable mixture of tradition, music, and creativity. From the rhythmic drums of Eyo to the electrical nights at One Lagos Fiesta, each occasion right here tells a narrative.
Whether or not you’re a vacationer, Japa returnee, or December customer able to see what the hype is about, these are the festivals that outline Lagos at its greatest. Whereas a few of them are already underway, the Lagos competition season runs from October to April the next yr.
1. Eyo Pageant: A Lagosian Cultural Treasure
The Eyo Pageant is Lagos’s oldest and most sacred cultural celebration. The white-clad masquerades (Eyo) transfer by means of the streets to honour ancestors and mark the transition of a conventional ruler or an elder of a ruling household.
-
Why You Ought to Go: It’s a once-in-a-lifetime glimpse into Yoruba spirituality and Lagos custom.
-
Tip: Respect the gown code (no black or crimson clothes), and don’t contact the Eyo masquerades.
2. Lagos Fanti Carnival: A Burst of Color, Tradition, and Rhythm
Often known as the “Rio of Africa,” the Lagos Fanti Carnival is a mixture of Brazilian, Caribbean, and Nigerian influences, all rolled into one massive parade. Assume costumes, floats, and Afrobeat blasting by means of the streets.
-
When: Easter season.
-
Don’t Miss: The road parade and each digicam in sight. The images are at all times nice
-
Tip: Sunscreen, cozy footwear, and an influence financial institution are non-negotiable.
3. Felabration: The Spirit of Fela Lives On
Felabration honours Fela Anikulapo-Kuti — the legend, the insurgent. Held on the New Afrika Shrine, it’s every week of continuous performances, tributes, and activism by means of artwork.
-
Why You Ought to Go: No competition captures Lagos power fairly like this one.
-
Tip: Arrive early to discover the reveals earlier than the group takes over.
ALSO READ: See Fela’s Life and Legacy Up Close at the Afrobeat Rebellion Exhibition in Lagos
4. Lagos Trend Week: Africa’s Runway Capital
In case you love trend, Lagos Trend Week is your Met Gala. Designers, fashions, influencers, and media homes from throughout the continent collect to have fun African model.
-
When: Each October/November.
-
What to Count on: Runway reveals, networking, and avenue model price copying.
-
Tip: Insider Observe: Gown for the digicam, not simply consolation. (Don’t quote me)
ALSO READ: Fashion Person or Not, Lagos Fashion Week 2025 Is Where You Should Be
5. GTCO Meals and Drink Pageant: The place Lagos Eats and Drinks
In case you love meals, this one will check your abdomen capability. Native dishes, worldwide cooks, and cocktail bars, multi functional large foodie paradise.
-
When: April/Could yearly.
-
Should-Strive: Small chops, seafood, and desserts.
-
Professional Tip: Don’t eat earlier than you go, and do not come when you have any weight loss plan plans👀
6. Artwork X Lagos: Africa’s Inventive Powerhouse
Artwork X Lagos is West Africa’s main artwork honest. It’s a fusion of latest artwork, digital creativity, and African tales. We love how Instagram-worthy it will get.
-
When: November yearly.
-
Why It’s Particular: You’ll see daring new works and meet the subsequent technology of African artists.
-
Tip: Go early for the exhibitions; go late for the networking.
7. Lagos Worldwide Jazz Pageant: Tunes by the Lagoon
This one’s for the calm souls. The direct reverse of Lagos visitors. The Jazz Pageant options native and worldwide acts for easy nights by the lagoon.
-
When: April yearly.
-
Tip: Deliver a date or mates. They’re at all times straightforward nights the place you may have deep conversations.
8. Lekki Arts and Craft Pageant: Your Shortcut to Lagos Creativity
Consider it as an open-air marketplace for Nigeria’s greatest handmade artwork, crafts, and trend. Excellent for last-minute souvenirs or items that inform everybody you went to Lagos.
-
Why Attend: Excellent for vacationers searching for genuine souvenirs.
-
When: Each December
-
Tip: You must discount costs, however accomplish that respectfully.
9. One Lagos Fiesta: The place the Metropolis Counts Right down to a New 12 months
Saving the perfect for final, that is the grand finale of Lagos’s December calendar. From dwell music to fireworks throughout a number of areas, One Lagos Fiesta shuts the yr down in model.
-
When: December 24–31.
-
Spotlight: The midnight countdown that lights up the skyline.
-
Tip: Come together with your telephones, however go early as a result of Lagos visitors will humble you if you happen to do not.
Festivals in Lagos from October 2025 to April 2026
Closing Phrase
No metropolis does celebration like Lagos. Whether or not you’re right here for the tradition or the concert events, these festivals show Lagos isn’t only a vacation spot. From October to April the subsequent yr, these are experiences that stick with you lengthy after your flight residence.
