In the streets of Lagos, Nigeria, you wouldn’t be hard-pressed to find bright lights, elaborate costumes, blaring music and a general party atmosphere at this time of year.

Usually running from December 6 to 31, the bustling Nigerian city is taken over by Detty December, one of the world’s biggest parties, spreading across establishments including bars and clubs.

The festival’s name comes from the Pidgin word ‘detty’, derived from ‘dirty’ – which is slang for ‘letting loose’. 

And it’s been dubbed ‘Africa’s biggest street party’ for a reason – the already vibrant hub of Lagos gets even busier during this month.

Both locals and tourists descend on the city to relax, let loose and enjoy a wealth of festivals, concerts, street parties and beach parties.

Last year, the festivities involved a whole host of celebrations, including the Calabar Carnival and plenty of other parties.

There’s a never-ending list of activities and events on in Lagos – and this year is no exception.

The 2025 line-up has included the Palmwine Music Festival, Peak Detty Vibes, The Bonfire Experience with Victony and Juma Jux Live in Lagos.

Dancers parade at the Calabar Carnival as part of Detty December

Lulu Beach Club during its opening during Detty December in Lagos this year

There was also the Foodie in Lagos Festival with food, drinks, music, and good vibes.

It arguably does wonders for tourism and the economy, too.

The Lagos State government says it generated over $71.6 million (£53.2m) from tourism, hospitality and entertainment during the 2024 Detty December season, CNN reported.

But not everyone is happy about the festivities. 

Why? The huge hike in prices as a result of the festival’s growing popularity.

With the price of flights increasing, economy tickets on Nigerian carriers can double to as much as 350,500 naira (£180), CNN reported.

And while the wealthy can afford to celebrate in style, increasing prices can make it exceptionally difficult for some to afford it.

Food and drink prices are steeper, too: Glenfiddich whisky can cost 200,000 naira (£101) during the festival in one Lagos district called Surulere, which normally costs 170,000 (£86), one local told CNN, while grilled catfish has gone from 15,000 naira (£7) to 20,000 (£10) – and up to 30,000 (£15.30) in some Lagos spots. 

The lively Lagos tradition where December is packed with nonstop parties, concerts, nightlife, and cultural events

Parties and festivities part of the cultural festival in the Nigerian hub

It was recently proposed diaspora Nigerians should pay a $500 (£370) tourism tax, bringing in a forecasted $165 million (£123 million).

But the idea was quickly shut down, with many arguing it would deter people from coming to enjoy the festivities.

Also, parts of Nigeria have seen violent attacks and kidnappings and banditry, casting a dark backdrop to the party month. 

The FCDO advises against all travel to parts of Nigeria. For instance, it advises against all travel to Borno State, Yobe State, Adamawa State and Gombe State.

According to the GOV.UK website: ‘Terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in Nigeria.

‘The primary terrorist threat in Nigeria comes from Islamic State West Africa (ISWA) and Boko Haram.’