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What is Detty December?

Detty December is the festive season in Nigeria that runs from December into early January.

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By NaijaRave

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Detty December is the festive season in Nigeria that runs from December into early January. It is known for concerts, parties and people coming home for the holidays. Lagos is the centre of it.

What "Detty" means

"Detty" comes from Nigerian Pidgin, where it is a twist on "dirty". In this sense it suggests celebrating without holding back.

Where the term came from

The origin is unclear. Some people link it to the 2004 Calabar Carnival. Others credit the singer Mr Eazi, who helped popularise it as a hashtag for his 2016 Lagos concert. More than one party has claimed a trademark on the phrase.

When it happens

It usually runs from around the start of December until early January. Many of the biggest concerts and festivals fall in the second half of December.

Planning a trip? Start with the Detty December travel checklist and where to stay in Lagos.

What goes on

  • House parties
  • Street carnivals
  • Beach gatherings
  • Concerts
  • Nightclub nights
  • Weddings

Year-end concert series such as Flytime Fest and Rhythm Unplugged are a big part of it. Businesses and governments also host events.

Who comes

Many Nigerians who live abroad return home for the season, along with visitors from the wider African diaspora. People who have just come back from abroad are nicknamed "IJGBs", short for "I Just Got Back". Among the Igbo, the return home is called homecoming.

Beyond Lagos

Lagos is the face of Detty December, but celebrations also happen in Calabar, Abuja and Ota in Ogun State. Many people spend the season in their home villages. Check official safety advice before travelling outside Lagos, because some states carry travel warnings.

The other side

The season also brings heavier traffic, higher prices and extra strain on infrastructure. Some residents feel priced out of their own cities. Plan for delays and book transport in advance.

A note on Ghana

People also use "Detty December" for Ghana. The Ghanaian government has said it prefers to promote the season as "December in Ghana".

Frequently asked questions

What does Detty mean?

"Detty" is a Nigerian Pidgin twist on "dirty". In Detty December it means celebrating without holding back.

When is Detty December?

It usually runs from December into early January, with many major events in the second half of December.

Where is Detty December celebrated?

Mainly in Lagos, but also in Calabar, Abuja, Ota and many home villages and towns.

Who started Detty December?

The origin is unclear. Some link it to the 2004 Calabar Carnival, and others credit Mr Eazi with popularising it in 2016.

Is Detty December only in Nigeria?

No. The phrase is also used for Ghana, although the Ghanaian government prefers "December in Ghana".

Sources and further reading

Last checked

Wikipedia is a general reference. Details of the term's origin are disputed.

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