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Navigating Nigeria’s Detty December Season

Updated November 2024

LCC Canopy Walkway

Detty December refers to a time of year where many Nigerians and Ghanians return home to celebrate Christmas and the New Year. The term, Detty December, was popularized by the Banke artist, Mr.Eazi, and it has since become a well-known part of West African culture.

I would describe Detty December as a blend of family reunions, extravagant wedding and birthday celebrations, lively music festivals, and nightclubs that seem to never close. Markets bustle with street vendors happy for the holiday rush, while goats, chickens, cows are prepared for huge feasts. In short, Detty December is a month-long celebration that flows right into the new year. For my first trip to Nigeria, I chose December, eager to join the festivities I had seen influencers enjoying over the years. While my primary goal was to visit family, I’ll share some additional activities I would have done if I had the time.

Best time to travel for Detty December

Detty December spans the entire month of December and continues into the new year. The best time to go will depend on your goals. If you’re looking to party and attend music festivals, the week of Christmas and the week after are ideal, as holiday parties and events will be at their peak. However, airports and roads will be crowded due to the high volume of travelers. I chose to arrive after Christmas and stayed throughout the second week of January, allowing me to experience New Year’s festivities while avoiding the Christmas crowds. (In my previous blog, I shared tips on how to travel to Nigeria from the U.S.)

Where to stay

Nordic Hotel Lagos

Lagos is divided into the mainland and Lagos Island. The mainland, where most Lagosians live, is known for its residential areas, offering more living space, affordability, and fewer crowds than the island. Popular areas include Ikeja, Surulere, Agege. For first-timers and non-natives, I recommend staying closer to the city-center, where the majority of the events and attractions are located. Traveling long distances during the holiday period can be challenging without a Lagosian who’s familiar with the area.

I stayed on the Island, specifically Victoria Island, which is near most popular clubs, nightlife spots, Instagram-famous restaurants, and other attractions. I also considered staying in Lekki (Phase 1) and Ikoyi. While these areas are more expensive, I felt convenience and security were worth the cost, especially as a first-timer. 

Eating your way through Lagos

  • Nok by Alara (victoria Island)
  • Cubana hut and grill (Ikeja)
  • W Bar Lounge Lagos
  • Moist Beach Club
  • Slow Lagos
  • R.S.V.P 
  • TheChopsFactory
  • Cilantro (Indian)
  • The room cafe(Brunch)
  • Shiro Lagos
  • Ki Bar & Kitchen (Asian)
  • Zaza
  • Kaly restaurant and bar
  • JMK Eats
  • The wine lab

Fun activities to do – outside of the parties

  • LCC Canopy Walkway
  • Ooni’s Place
  • Freedom Park
  • Nike Gallery
  • Epe Mangrove
  • National Museum of Lagos
  • Lufasi Nature park
  • Landmark beach
  • Jazz hole lagos
  • Street Souk Lagos (streetwear convention)
  • Wunika Mukan Gallery
  • Laygos watercrafts 
  • Rele gallery

Concerts, parties, and the like

  • Hotbox Lagos
  • The library
  • The backdoor lounge
  • Pavilion Nightlife
  • Flytime Fest
  • Oniru private beach

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