Christmas in Lagos
Christmas is the peak of Detty December in Lagos.
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By NaijaRave
Christmas is the peak of Detty December in Lagos. This guide covers the public holidays, what happened last Christmas and what to plan for.
Public holidays
Arise News reported that the federal government declared 25 December, 26 December and 1 January public holidays for the 2026 festive period, as announced by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo. In 2026, 25 December is a Friday and 26 December is a Saturday. Public holidays can affect opening hours, so confirm times before you go.
A busy time to travel
Many Nigerians at home and abroad return for the holidays, and many travel on to their home towns and villages. Among the Igbo, the return home is called homecoming. The season also brings heavier traffic and higher prices.
Christmas events in 2025
These are 2025 listings, shown to help you plan. They are not confirmed for 2026.
- Christmas Wonderland: 6 December 2025 to 11 January 2026, Fantasy Land, Ikoyi
- Old-School Christmas Concert: 13 December 2025, Oriental Hotel, Victoria Island
- Eko Fiesta: 22 to 24 December 2025, Muri Okunola Park, Victoria Island
- Euphoria Detty December Rave: 25 December 2025, Athena Beach, Elegushi, Lekki
- Detty Faaji: 27 December 2025, Muson Centre, Onikan
For 2026, see Detty December 2026 events.
Plan ahead
Book transport and accommodation early, because costs rise in the season. Read where to stay in Lagos and the Detty December travel checklist.
Staying safe
UK advice says to take extra care during religious and public holidays. Read is Nigeria safe to visit? before you travel.
Frequently asked questions
Is Christmas Day a public holiday in Nigeria?
Yes. Arise News reported that the federal government declared 25 December, 26 December and 1 January public holidays for the 2026 festive period.
Are there Christmas events in Lagos?
Yes. In 2025 they included Christmas Wonderland in Ikoyi, Eko Fiesta on Victoria Island and a Christmas Day rave at Elegushi. Confirm 2026 events with the organisers.
Is Lagos busy and expensive at Christmas?
The season brings heavier traffic and higher prices, so allow extra time and book early.
Is it safe to travel in Lagos at Christmas?
Lagos is not under a UK travel warning, but UK advice says to take extra care during religious and public holidays. Use trusted transport and keep valuables out of sight.
Sources and further reading
Last checked
- Arise News, Nigeria declares December 25, 26 and January 1 public holidays for festive season
- Wikipedia, Detty December (Nigeria)
- BusinessDay, 20 events for Detty December in Lagos (13 December 2025)
- UK FCDO, Nigeria safety and security
The holiday announcement is from one news report. Check the official federal government notice.