There’s something magical about Lagos during festival season — that perfect blend of culture, music, and unfiltered creativity. From the spiritual rhythms of the Eyo Festival to the electrifying nights of One Lagos Fiesta, every celebration tells a story of energy, heritage, and pride.
Whether you’re a tourist, a Japa returnee, or a December visitor ready to see what all the buzz is about, Lagos comes alive between October and April with festivals that define the city’s spirit. Here are nine you shouldn’t miss.
1. Eyo Festival — A Lagosian Cultural Treasure
Lagos’s oldest and most revered celebration, the Eyo Festival is a visual spectacle of tradition. The white-clad masquerades (known as Eyo) parade through the streets to honour ancestors and mark the transition of a king or a respected elder.
Why Go: It’s a once-in-a-lifetime immersion into Yoruba spirituality and authentic Lagos culture.
Pro Tip: Avoid wearing black or red, and never touch the Eyo masquerades — that’s sacred territory.
2. Lagos Fanti Carnival — A Burst of Colour and Rhythm
Dubbed the “Rio of Africa,” the Lagos Fanti Carnival is a parade of vibrant costumes, dazzling floats, and Afro-Caribbean beats that fill the air with joy.
When: Every Easter season.
Don’t Miss: The colourful street parade — and of course, take as many pictures as possible.
Pro Tip: Come prepared with sunscreen, comfortable shoes, and a power bank. You’ll need all three.
3. Felabration — The Spirit of Fela Lives On
Dedicated to the legendary Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, Felabration is pure Lagos energy. Hosted at the iconic New Afrika Shrine, it’s a week of non-stop music, art, and activism that keeps Fela’s revolutionary spirit alive.
Why Go: Nowhere else captures Lagos’s soul quite like this.
Pro Tip: Get there early to explore the art installations and soak in the vibe before the crowd builds up.
4. Lagos Fashion Week — Africa’s Runway Capital
For fashion lovers, Lagos Fashion Week is the event of the season. Designers, influencers, and trendsetters from across Africa come together to celebrate bold creativity and innovative design.
When: Every October/November.
Expect: Runway shows, industry networking, and plenty of street style inspiration.
Insider Note: Dress for the camera — not just comfort. (You’ve been warned!)
5. GTCO Food and Drink Festival — Where Lagos Eats and Drinks
A foodie’s paradise! The GTCO Food and Drink Festival brings together local delicacies, international chefs, and mixologists for a delicious celebration of taste and culture.
When: Every April/May.
Must-Try: Small chops, seafood, and indulgent desserts.
Pro Tip: Don’t eat before you go. And if you’re on a diet… maybe skip this one 👀.
6. Art X Lagos — Africa’s Creative Powerhouse
As West Africa’s leading art fair, Art X Lagos showcases the brilliance of contemporary African art and digital creativity. It’s sophisticated, thought-provoking, and highly Instagram-worthy.
When: Every November.
Why Go: To see groundbreaking art and meet the next generation of African creatives.
Pro Tip: Visit early for the exhibitions, stay late for the networking.
7. Lagos International Jazz Festival — Tunes by the Lagoon
Looking for something mellow? The Lagos International Jazz Festival is the city’s smooth side — a blend of local and international acts performing by the water under the Lagos night sky.
When: Every April.
Pro Tip: Bring friends or a date. It’s the perfect setting for laid-back conversations and good vibes.
8. Lekki Arts and Craft Festival — A Shortcut to Lagos Creativity
If you’re hunting for authentic souvenirs or handcrafted art, the Lekki Arts and Craft Festival is the place to be. It’s an open-air market filled with Nigerian creativity — from paintings and jewelry to fashion and home décor.
When: Every December.
Why Go: It’s your best stop for unique Lagos-made gifts.
Pro Tip: Bargain, but keep it friendly — it’s all part of the experience.
9. One Lagos Fiesta — The Grand Finale
Closing out the year in grand style, One Lagos Fiesta is a citywide celebration that spans multiple locations, featuring live performances, fireworks, and pure excitement as Lagos counts down to the New Year.
When: December 24–31.
Highlight: The midnight fireworks that light up the skyline — unforgettable.
Pro Tip: Go early. Lagos traffic doesn’t take holidays.
No one celebrates quite like Lagos. Whether you’re drawn by the culture, the music, or the sheer energy, these festivals show why Lagos is more than just a city — it’s an experience. From October to April, every beat, taste, and colour tells a story you’ll carry long after your flight home.
