Last updated: 14 October 2026. Festival dates often move, and some events are announced late, so confirm details with organisers before you travel. We replaced an earlier long list with sourced timing, planning advice and safety tips.
Nigeria’s festivals range from ancient religious ceremonies to street carnivals and music weekends. They are also big business: a report from MO Africa estimated that Lagos’ Detty December in 2025 generated ₦396.5 billion in consumer spending. Here are ten festivals and seasons that stand out.
Planning your December? See our Detty December 2026 guide for the event calendar, ticket prices and safety tips.
1. Calabar Carnival (December, Cross River State)
Often called Africa’s biggest street party, the Calabar Carnival is the high point of a month of festivities in December. Organisers say it draws nearly two million partygoers, and reports in 2025 described it as being in its 20th year, though sources differ on whether it began in 2004 or 2006. The 2026 programme was published, with the cultural carnival, the Night of Kings and Queens and the junior carnival on 26 and 27 December, the main parade of the bands on 28 December, the bikers’ carnival on 29 December and street parties on 30 December. Book transport and accommodation months ahead.
2. Detty December Fest (Lagos)
Detty December is the festive season of concerts, parties and homecomings in Lagos. The Detty December Fest returns from 18 to 30 December 2026 with two stages, and Wizkid is the first confirmed headliner of the opening concert on 18 December. Expect high prices and heavy traffic. See our guide to Lagos traffic.
3. Eyo Festival (Lagos)
The Eyo Festival, with processions of masquerades in white robes and wide-brimmed hats, dates back to 1854. It was held in December 2025 for the first time in eight years, with a grand finale at Tafawa Balewa Square, which President Tinubu attended. Whether it is held in a given year depends on Lagos traditional institutions, so check announcements.
4. Osun-Osogbo Festival (August, Osun State)
A major Yoruba religious and cultural festival in Osogbo, centred on the Osun river goddess and the sacred grove, which is recognised by UNESCO. It usually takes place in August and draws worshippers and visitors from around the world. Follow local guidance on dress and photography.
5. Argungu Fishing Festival (Kebbi State)
A centuries-old fishing contest in which thousands of fishermen compete to catch the biggest fish. It usually takes place around late February or early March, though dates vary and security conditions can affect travel, so check ahead.
6. Durbar (northern cities)
Horse parades with colourfully dressed riders in cities such as Kano, Katsina and Zaria, linked to Eid celebrations. Dates follow the Islamic calendar.
7. Lagos Carnival (usually April to May)
A street festival showcasing the cultures of Lagos communities, with costumes, music and dance.
8. New Yam festivals (Igbo communities)
Harvest festivals, such as Iri Ji or Iwaji, thanking the land for the new yam, held in different communities at the start of the harvest season.
9. Eid celebrations
Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha bring family gatherings, prayers and processions across the country.
10. Music and arts festivals
Concerts, film festivals, fashion weeks and art fairs are held throughout the year, especially in Lagos and Abuja. See our guides to Afrobeats artists, Nigerian podcasts and pop culture trends.
Planning and safety tips
- Book early, especially in December, when flights, hotels and event tickets sell out. Compare prices and cancellation terms.
- Buy tickets only from verified sources. Fake ticket pages and social media sellers are common. See our guide on internet scams.
- Check security and travel advice for your route and destination, especially for northern and remote locations, and avoid travelling at night.
- Protect your valuables and phone. Crowds attract pickpockets. Use mobile money safely and confirm credit alerts. See online safety tips.
- Respect local customs: ask before photographing people or ceremonies, dress modestly where expected and follow instructions from organisers and elders.
- Budget realistically. Prices rise in peak season. See our guides on the cost of living and saving money.
- Stay connected and share your plans. See our guide on data plans and, if you come from abroad, our guide for the diaspora.
Packing and Budget Tips
- Pack light clothing, sun protection, a power bank and a small first-aid kit.
- Carry some cash and use only trusted payment methods.
- Budget for transport, food and tickets, and add a buffer for price rises in peak season. See the cost of living.
Respectful Behaviour
Ask permission before you photograph people or ceremonies, follow dress codes at religious events and listen to local guides. Keep your valuables safe and avoid travelling at night.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the Calabar Carnival?
It runs through December, with the main parade of the bands scheduled for 28 December 2026.
When is the Osun-Osogbo Festival?
Usually in August.
Are Nigerian festivals safe for visitors?
Many are, but safety varies by location and time. Check current advice, plan transport and keep valuables secure.
Sources
- eNCA (AFP): Glitzy Calabar Carnival wraps up tough year in Nigeria
- Intercity: 5 Nigerian cities to visit before 2026 ends (Carnival Calabar 2026 programme)
- Interspace Music: Wizkid to headline Detty December Fest 2026
- allAfrica: Tinubu attends Eyo Festival
- allAfrica: Detty December Festival kicks off with pomp and pageantry
- Geography Worlds: Best time to visit Nigeria, festivals calendar
- Wikipedia: Detty December
