Whether you're visiting for the holidays or you’ve been stuck here all year (like me), you can't spend the festive month of December doing all of the regular stuff Lagos has to offer. So, instead of doing the expected and filling this list with concerts, the events we've lined up cover a myriad of experiences, including music, art, fashion, tech and even mental health aids.
It's been a bit of a year, so my savings score isn't very...existent. As a result, I’m filled with immense gratitude that many of these events are free. I also choose to believe I’ll get a secret Santa that’ll cover the ones that aren’t. Yes, I plan to go to all 10 of these events in Lagos this December. You should too.
1. Art Of Technology 3.0
From the 3rd to the 4th of December, 2021, there's an end of the year event for Africa’s blossoming tech industry. Some of the biggest and brightest names in the community are known to attend, so the last two editions of Art Of Technology have been networking opportunities for every kind of tech bro.
A free event, AOT is holding at Lagos Oriental Hotel, and you can register here.
2. Saturdays At The Gallery by Art Trade Gallery
Incredible works of art have been on display every Saturday since the 16th of October, 2021. Hosted by the Art Trade Gallery, these Saturdays in Lagos have been a chance to enjoy art in a city where people are usually too busy to pause and enjoy the finer things. Some of the other fun parts of the show are live paint, conversations with artists and silent auctions. Thankfully, there's one last opening for the year on the 4th of December, 2021. It's also totally free to attend!
3. TEDxSangotedo
On the 4th of December in Sangotedo at the Royal Palm Villa, this event aims to spread helpful ideas for individuals, organisations, and communities at large. Through its quintessentially inspiring speakers and resource materials — including videos — at this public event, TEDx will spark positive discussions among the Lagos population with a knack for self-improvement.
4. The Fashion Souk 5.0
The last four editions have demonstrated this platform’s proficiency in showcasing emerging fashion entrepreneurs and similar individuals/organisations in Nigeria. True to the 2020 state of things, last year's edition was held virtually, but this year Eventful Nigeria, the organisers, promise much more as the event will be physical.
On the 5th of December, 2021, different high-value fashion brands will display their various items via The Fashion Souk Runway and a beautiful shopping experience involving more than 140 stalls. The event will be held at Harbour Point, Victoria Island, and the only entry tax is strict adherence to COVID protocols.
5. Sip and Paint at The Dew Centre
After spending the first Saturday of the month at the Art Trade Gallery, I trust myself to seek out that sensation that good art invokes again. The event is designed to relax you, providing an experience of proper mindfulness as soon as you walk through the doors. Paint, connect, or just take a really long breath; whatever you do, enjoy yourself. You deserve it.
Sound like a plan? Get your ticket here.
6. Monochrome: An Index art exhibition
Self-discovery and awareness are the main themes of the contemporary design, Monochrome. The incredible abstract artwork by Yerins Abraham will be on display for public viewing all day at Kokopelli Gallery. On the 12th of December, 2021, you're provided the chance to find important stories — yours or others’ — in Abraham’s artwork, and entry is free to all.
7. RENDACON 2021
The Radical Exhibition of New and Diverse Animation is an animation and special effects film festival, holding this year at EbonyLife place. The 17th and 18th of December, 2021 are dedicated to recognising the industry’s progress, particularly in Africa. Panel discussions, masterclasses, and networking opportunities are the major benefits of the event, although I would go for the sheer fun of it.
Get your ticket here.
8. DJ Spinall’s Party Of Dreams
“Sere” with Fireboy DML (and the remix with 6LACK) is one of DJ Spinall’s latest hits, and it’s one of the anticipated performances at this year’s edition of his annual concert. Party Of Dreams 2021 is the sixth edition of this five-hour event featuring guest artists. On the 18th of December, 2021, don't forget your white sensation outfit as you head to the Federal Palace Hotel.
Grab your ticket here.
9. Black Tie Christmas
This event serves as a magical experience as well as a fundraiser for the musical education of less privileged students, particularly those in Nigeria’s orphanage homes. Although a maiden event, Black Tie Christmas holds much promise with its showcases under the beautiful night sky. I especially appreciate the chance to dress like I have a queer fairy godmother to the Muson Centre on the 19th of December, 2021.
Get your ticket here.
10. Wizkid Live In Lagos
Riding on the wave of his largely successful album, I think of this concert as the homecoming of a king. I dare you to name a more fitting destination for the Made In Lagos creator this festive season. On the 19th, and 21st of December, 2021, Livespot Festival and Flytime Music Festival will be headlined by Machala himself. Also, visit Abeg for tickets to Vibes On the Beach at Landmark Beach which will be held on the 30th of December, 2021.
BONUS: For lovers of food, the Eat Drink Festival will be returning on December 28th and 29th, and Kewa Kitchen's Street Food Festival on December 12. .
