Hey Reader, Christmas is just around the corner, and guess what? It’s about to get lit in Lagos! The city transforms into a glittering wonderland, and the festive vibes are contagious. From dazzling Christmas lights to the sweet sounds of carols in almost all the churches in the city. Lagos is the place to be during the holiday season.
Picture this: the streets adorned with colorful decorations like the one at the Eko Hotel Roundabout, the air filled with the scent of delicious treats, and the joyous laughter of families and friends echoing through the neighborhoods. Christmas in Lagos is like a magical adventure, and we’re here to guide you through all the fantastic things happening in the city.
Importance of Celebrating Christmas in the City
Now, why celebrate Christmas in Lagos, you ask?
Well, first off, it’s not just about the gifts and the feasts (although those are pretty awesome too!). Lagos has this unique way of blending tradition with a modern twist during Christmas. It’s not just a holiday; it’s a whole experience.
Think of it as a time when the entire city comes together to celebrate love, joy, and the spirit of giving. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, experiencing Christmas in Lagos is like being part of one giant, heartwarming celebration. So, buckle up, because we’re about to unfold the top things you can do to make your Lagos Christmas unforgettable!
1. Lagos Christmas Decorations
The festive decor in Lagos during Christmas is nothing short of spectacular. We’re talking about streets dressed up in twinkling lights, buildings wrapped like giant presents, and trees adorned with the most festive ornaments you can imagine.
Head to popular areas like Victoria Island and Ikeja, and you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a winter wonderland — even if the weather says otherwise. The creativity on display is mind-blowing, and every corner seems to compete for the title of the most Instagrammable spot. So, charge up your phone because you’ll want to capture every bit of this holiday magic!
Best Places to Experience Christmas Lights
Ready to have your eyes light up brighter than the Christmas tree itself? Lagos has some hotspots where the Christmas lights game is on point. From Lekki to Surulere, you’ll find streets that could rival the North Pole. Take a stroll, drive around, or hop on a Christmas-themed tour — whatever suits your fancy.
Make sure to check out places like Falomo, Victoria Island, Ikoyi, and Ikeja, where the lights dance to the rhythm of the season, creating a symphony of colors. And oh, don’t miss out on the neighborhoods that go all out with friendly competitions for the best-dressed homes. It’s like a real-life fairy tale, and you’re invited to be part of the enchantment!
2. The Christmas Culture in Lagos
Let’s talk about the local customs and traditions of Lagosians during the Christmas period;
Bubbly Environment & Loud Music: One of the highlights is the play of Christmas themed music, songs of thanksgiving and celebration because it is close to the New Years celebration and most people become grateful for life and tend to be in a joyful mood.
Rice Dishes Galore: And let’s not forget about the food! Christmas in Lagos means Jollof rice takes center stage, followed by rice and stew before anyother type of rice dishes. From street vendors to fancy restaurants, everyone’s dishing out different rice dishes you’ve ever tasted. It’s not just a meal; it’s a Christmas tradition! There is no Christmas without “Christmas Rice”
Street Parades and Carnivals: Picture this: vibrant costumes, music blasting from every corner, and people dancing in the streets. Yep, that’s the Christmas parades and carnivals for you. Lagos knows how to throw a party, and during Christmas, the whole city joins the fiesta. They involve the Landlords and tenents of the street, put up street lights, organise for food, drinks, music and even invite guest artiste.
Christmas Carol Services: Attend a local Christmas carol service for a heartwarming experience. Many churches and community centers host these events, featuring beautiful hymns and festive cheer.
Midnight Mass and Church Services: Christmas Eve is a big deal, and attending midnight mass or church services is a common tradition. The churches in Lagos come alive with carols, sermons, and a sense of unity that defines the true spirit of Christmas.
Extended Family Reunions: On the Family side, Christmas is all about family, and Lagosians take this seriously. It’s the time when relatives from far and wide come together. From the youngest to the oldest, everyone gathers for a grand celebration.
Gift-Giving Extravaganza: The tradition of gift-giving is not just about what’s inside the gift; it’s the excitement of sharing and spreading joy. The gifts come in different forms, It could be in form of food to friends, neighbours and to the less privildged. It could be cash gifts from older folks to the younger folks, It could be free drinks to residents of an apartment, or gift exchange within collegues of organisations, and lots more.
So, there you have it — a sneak peek into the cultural beat of Lagos during Christmas.
THINGS TO DO IN LAGOS
Now, let’s talk about making your Christmas in Lagos as exciting as can be!
Whether it’s your first Christmas holiday in Lagos or you’re just looking for a great spot to celebrate, Lagos has got the festive vibes covered. The best part? There’s a ton of stuff you can do, and it all depends on who you’re hanging out with and how much money you’ve got to spare.
Whether you’re working with a budget or ready to splurge a bit, there’s a perfect spot for your Christmas adventure. From romantic getaways to family-friendly spots, Lagos has it all. Now, let’s dive into some of these cool activities that’ll have you feeling the holiday spirit.
Games and Adventure Spots
For those craving a mix of thrill and fun, Lagos offers an array of games and adventure spots. From heart-pounding paintball battles to stepping into virtual realms, get ready to embark on an exciting journey of games and adventures. Let’s discover the places that will add that extra dash of excitement to your Lagos Christmas celebration!
Leisure Sports Paintball, Lekki
The Leisure Sports Paintball is a play area for people who love exciting stuff! It’s one of the very first places for speedy paintball games, making it extra awesome. After all the action, you can relax at their bar and grill with yummy food and drinks. Whether you plan to have a Christmas party, a special event, or just want to drop by, just go with your friends and family. You can find them at 39 Kusenla Rd, Chisco Bus Stop, Ikate Elegushi, Lekki, Lagos, Nigeria. It’s from N10,000 per player. They open only on saturdays, sundays and on public holidays from 12pm — 7pm.
Seal Team Paintball is a cheaper alternative and they offer similar services. Learn more here.
Upbeat Centre
For some serious fun, The Upbeat Centre in Lekki is the right place. They’ve got cool stuff like trampoline, grip socks, obstacle climbing, virtual games and more. They perfect for folks who love a good adventure. It’s not just a place to play; it’s where every moment feels like an exciting dream come true. So, if you’re into laughs, cheers, and lots of fun, Upbeat Centre is the spot to be!
Omu Resort
Located just beyond the borders of Lagos, Omu Resort is a fantastic place for a family adventure. They’ve got a zoo with super cool animals and an amusement park with rides that’ll make you scream (in a good way!). It’s not just a day out; it’s a whole adventure waiting to happen. Pack your bags for a day filled with excitement, laughter, and a bit of wild fun at Omu Resort!
Rufus and Bees
Level up your Christmas fun at Rufus & Bee! From classic snooker games to the contemporary Dance Revolution, a sports bar, bowling lanes and our American Tex-Mex Restaurant. With over 100 exciting games, Rufus & Bee provides the ultimate gaming experience for kids, adults, families and corporate teams. They are opened from Tue — Sun: 12:00 PM- 10:30 PM. Located at Twintowers Off Remi Olowude road Lekki second roundabout.
Nexpad Lounge
The NexPad Lounge, is situated on the 2nd floor of Techub Space in Agidingbi, Ikeja, Lagos. This dynamic lounge redefines leisure, offering an array of activities to cater to every taste. For that exhilarating Christmas fun feeling, get ready to unleash your inner rockstar with lively sessions of Karaoke, or experience the thrill of racing with friends.
If board games are more your style, NexPad Lounge has you covered with an extensive collection. But the excitement doesn’t stop there — venture into the world of virtual reality with cutting-edge VR games that transport you to new realms. And for the gaming enthusiasts, indulge in an immersive experience with a variety of video games. So, whether you’re a karaoke sensation, a board game strategist, or a VR explorer, NexPad Lounge welcomes you to a world of entertainment like no other. Add it to your bucket list this Christmas.
Cinemas and Movie Places In Lagos
Genesis Deluxe Cinemas
Get into the festive spirit at Genesis Deluxe Cinemas, right in the heart of Lagos, with branches at the Maryland Mall and the Festac Mall. This cinema goes beyond movies; it creates a cozy Christmas vibe. With top-notch screens and comfy seats, Genesis Deluxe Cinemas is a perfect retreat, offering a mix of the latest blockbusters and heartwarming Christmas classics. And, of course, don’t miss the delightful popcorn — the perfect holiday treat without a hint of snow!
Silverbird Galleria
Celebrate the season at Silverbird Galleria in Victoria Island. This cinema isn’t just for movies; it’s a festive escape. Picture the warmth of Christmas decorations as you explore screens featuring a range of holiday-themed films, from cheerful comedies to heart-touching dramas. Silverbird Galleria turns your movie outing into a complete Christmas entertainment experience, making it an ideal destination for festive family fun in the heart of Lagos.
Filmhouse Cinemas IMAX
Elevate your Christmas movie experience at Filmhouse Cinemas IMAX in Lekki, Landmark and Surulere. There, the holiday spirit blends with cinematic grandeur. The giant screens and immersive sound systems create an atmosphere where festive joy meets the magic of the big screen. Settle into your seat and let the enchanting visuals and holiday-themed films transport you to a world of Christmas cheer. Filmhouse Cinemas IMAX isn’t just about watching movies; it’s about embarking on a cinematic journey infused with the joy and warmth of the Christmas season, Lagos style.
Christmas Events & Festivals In Lagos
Experience the heart and soul of Christmas in Nigeria by immersing yourself in the joy of comedy and music festivals. In the festive season, Lagos, as the entertainment epicenter of the country, takes the spotlight. Witnessing iconic events like The Experience has become a cherished tradition during this merry period. For enthusiasts of events and entertainment, Lagos emerges as the ultimate destination for a Christmas vacation.
- Teslim Balogun Stadium — Location: Alh. Masha Rd, Surulere, Lagos
- Eko Hotel Tropical Christmas — Location: Eko Hotel & Suites, Plot 1415 Adetokunbo Ademola Street, Victoria Island Lagos
- Fela Shrine — Location: 2 NERDC Rd, Agidingbi, Ikeja
- The Civic Centre — Location: Ozumba Mbadiwe Road, Opposite 1004, Victoria Island, Lagos
- Landmark Centre — Location: 3&4 water corporation street off Ligali ayorinde , Lagos, Nigeria
- The Experience 2023 —Location: Tafawa Balewa Square — 45/57 Massey Bamgboshe Street on Lagos Island, Lagos
How to Navigate Lagos during the Festive Season
Get ready to jingle all the way through Lagos during Christmas! Navigating the city during the festive season can be a bit hectic, but with a few handy tips, you’ll sleigh through it smoothly.
- Plan Ahead: Traffic tends to be busier than Santa’s workshop, so plan your routes in advance. Use navigation apps to check for real-time updates and choose less congested paths.
- Public Transport: Lagos has a public transportation system, including buses, trains and boats that can help you get to your location at a cheaper cost. They might be your secret sleigh to beating traffic.
- Car Rentals: If you’re feeling adventurous and want to explore at your own pace, consider renting a car. Just remember to check the traffic rules — we don’t want any holiday traffic tickets!
Transportation Options for Christmas Travelers
Whether you’re a local or visiting for the holidays, here are some transportation options to make your Christmas travel stress-free:
- Air Travel: If you’re flying into Lagos, Book your flights early, and check for any travel restrictions or special holiday deals.
- Interstate Buses and Trains: Traveling from nearby states? Interstate buses are a cost-effective and festive way to reach Lagos. Be sure to book your tickets in advance, or go to the park very early in the morning, especially during the holiday rush.
- Ferries and Boats: Lagos is surrounded by water, and taking a ferry or boat ride can be a scenic and enjoyable way to move within Lagos.
- Safety Reminders: Whether you’re on the road or in the air, prioritize safety. Buckle up, follow all safety guidelines, and keep an eye on your belongings.
Tips for a Safe Christmas Celebration
Keep the holiday spirit alive by staying safe and healthy during your Christmas celebrations in Lagos. Here are some tips to sleigh your way through the festivities:
- Stay Hydrated: Lagos can get warm, even during the holiday season. Keep yourself hydrated, especially if you’re out and about exploring the city.
- Weather Awareness: Check the weather forecast before heading out. Pack an umbrella or sunscreen, depending on the weather, to ensure you’re prepared for whatever Mother Nature has in store.
- Secure Your Belongings: Just like elves guard Santa’s workshop, keep an eye on your belongings. Use secure bags and wallets to avoid any Grinch-like incidents. There are thieves and opportunists everywhere in Lagos.
Remember, safety first! Enjoy your Christmas celebrations in Lagos to the fullest by staying prepared and making memories that will last well into the New Year.
In conclusion, get ready to jingle all the way through Lagos this Christmas! From dazzling lights to festive traditions, thrilling adventures, and heartwarming celebrations, the city has something for everyone. Stay safe, enjoy the magic, and make this Christmas in Lagos one to remember.
For more in-depth tips and exciting details, check out the related articles. They have the continuation of this guide, offering additional insights on family-friendly activities, must-visit markets, top resorts, dining experiences, and how to navigate Lagos during the festive season. Wishing you a Merry Christmas and a joyous time in Lagos!
