The cultural diversity and heritage in Lagos has led to the emergence of a variety of vibrant cultural and traditional festivals within the state. These festivals serve as platforms to showcase the rich history, arts, entertainment, and lifestyles of its people. The earliest documented festival in Lagos dates back to the 19th century, with the inaugural festival staged at Oke Ipa, located at the end of Glover Road in the Ikoyi area. Subsequently, numerous festivals have been held to commemorate various aspects of culture, art, and lifestyle in Lagos.[1][2]
The Eyo festival, celebrated on Lagos Island, features white-clad masquerades wielding long staffs, which serve as the focal point of the event. Its origins trace back to 1854, initially held to guide the soul of a departed Lagos King or Chief and to usher in a new monarch. Over the past 25 years, the festival has occurred thrice and has expanded its purpose to include celebrations of notable individuals.
The Gẹlẹdẹ festival holds strong in the Ikorodu local government area of Lagos State. This festival, associated with the Gẹlẹdẹ society, fosters social harmony and gender equality, involving both men and women. Distinguished by the vibrant display of society members adorned in colorful masks, the festival combines art and ritual dance to entertain, educate, and inspire worship. The event serves various purposes, including improving individuals' lives, purifying the community, invoking rain, enhancing fertility, seeking supernatural support, and honoring the deceased.[3]
The Lagos Black Heritage Festival highlights the diverse African culture and heritage. The event encompasses a range of performances, from traditional to contemporary dances, drama, music, painting, and photography exhibitions. By organizing the Carnival, the festival provides an opportunity for the various ethnic groups residing in Lagos to forge new relationships.[4][5]
The Lagos Book and Art Festival (LABAF), established in 1999, serves as a catalyst for promoting the cultural significance of books. It aims to kindle interest in reading and writing in indigenous languages in Nigeria. This annual seven-day festival takes place across various venues, including the Goethe-Institute, the British Council, and Freedom Park, all situated in Lagos State.[6]
The Lagos Food Festival is a platform that celebrates Nigerian cuisine and delicacies, fostering an awareness of the nation's rich culinary culture. This annual event, held during the Independence Weekend holiday, unites Nigerians with their shared love for good food and beverages.[7][8]
The EatDrinkFestival, organized by EatDrinkLagos and sponsored by Sterling Bank, debuted in 2015. It provides a platform for the exploration of culinary delights and diverse flavors, contributing to the appreciation of food culture.[9][10]
The GTBank Food and Drink Festival, an annual multi-day event organized by Guaranty Trust Bank, showcases an array of culinary creations and beverage experiences from Africa. The inaugural two-day edition was held in 2016, followed by subsequent four-day events. The festival has emerged as a platform for spotlighting the continent's culinary diversity.[11]
Felabration is an annual music festival inaugurated in 1998 by Yeni Anikulapo-Kuti to honor the legacy of her father, Fela Kuti, a Nigerian musician and pioneer of the Afrobeat music genre, as well as a human rights activist.[12] The festival, held at the New Afrika Shrine in Ikeja, spans a week and attracts participants from various nations, making it a recognized tourist destination endorsed by the Lagos State Government.[13]
Felabration aligns with the week of Fela Kuti's birthday and encompasses musical performances by renowned local and international artists, along with street parades, symposia on pertinent issues, engaging debates, and captivating photo exhibitions.[14][15]
The Experience, commonly referred to as The Experience Lagos, is an annual gospel music concert held at the Tafawa Balewa Square on Lagos Island. Conceived by Paul Adefarasin, the lead pastor of House on the Rock, the event debuted in 2006 with an attendance of 70,000 individuals.[16][17]
The Experience features both local and international gospel artists, including names such as Kirk Franklin, CeCe Winans, Donnie McClurkin, Don Moen, Frank Edwards, Nathaniel Bassey, and Chioma Jesus. Recognized as one of Africa's premier musical events, The Experience's music direction has been under the guidance of Wilson Joel since 2013.[17][18]
