When to visit Lagos for festivals, fashion and fun

Lagos is Nigeria’s hub of business, entertainment, fashion... and everything in between. Knowing the optimal times to visit this thrilling city can make any trip here even more memorable.

Lagos experiences two main seasons throughout the year: the rainy season (which typically begins in April and lasts through mid-November) and the dry season (from November to March). The best time to visit Lagos is between the months of November and February: the weather is drier, the air less humid and the temperature cooler due to the harmattan winds.

The months of June and July are the wettest months of the year, with heavy downpours that often bring flash floods and severe traffic congestion in parts of the city. Still, even in the low season you’ll never be short of things to do in the “Center of Excellence” – and prices will generally be lower than in peak and shoulder months.

High Season: December–February

Best time for great weather, concerts and nightlife

The cool, dry temperatures during the high season – especially in December – make this period the best time to visit Lagos. With the inflow of visitors and returnees coming home to spend the holidays with their families and friends, you can expect higher prices than at other times of the year. But there’s a reason everyone visits during these weeks: gorgeous sunny days at the beach, seasonal dining experiences, concerts, stage plays and epic parties constitute what locals have come to know as “Detty December.”

Toward the end of December and early January, a post-holiday lull sets in, offering travelers a chance to explore the city with fewer crowds and less traffic congestion.

Shoulder Season: August, October–November

Best time for budget travelers

In August, Lagos experiences a short break from the torrential downpours of the months before. Although it begins to rain again from mid to late August until November, the weather conditions are much milder than in the low season. Around this time is also when schools close for their summer break, decongesting the city and making it easier to explore. In addition, November kicks off the festive season in Lagos, with several events and festivals occurring within this month.

Low season: March–July, September

Best time for deals and indoor activities

The months of March to July and September are characterized by hot, humid and rainy weather conditions, making them the least favorable time to visit Lagos. Even so, the city does not come to a complete halt. (How could such an ever-exciting place?) In fact, visitors find that many must-do attractions have no season, including the city’s famous bars, restaurants, art galleries and party scene. And you may even encounter lower prices when you set out on the town in the wet season.

Here's a guide on the best time to visit Lagos and what you can expect each month of the year.

January

January is a great time to enjoy Lagos in a moment of post-holiday calm, as the December peak starts to recede and the city gets back to its daily rhythms. The weather remains favorable as the crowds thin out, making it one of the best months to visit.

Key events: Concerts, live stage musicals at Terra Kulture and Muson Centre

February

The weather begins to warm up but still remains generally favorable for spending time outdoors. This month is a good time to visit the beach and to indulge some fine dining, taking advantage of Valentine’s Day deals.

Key events: Lagos City Marathon

March

By March, the weather warms up significantly and heat and humidity replaces the cool, dry weather of the previous months. Still, since rain is relatively uncommon, March can still be a good month to explore the city, and enjoy outdoor evening concerts in slightly cooler temperatures. Make sure to book accommodation and taxis with air conditioning.

Key events: Afropolitan Vibes music festival

April

April’s sees the continuation of March’s hot and humid days. Look out for several events organized around the Easter holidays.

Key events: GTCO Food & Drink Festival, Gidi Culture Festival, Lagos International Jazz Festival

May through September

These months usher in the heavy rains that can impede movement around the city. The weather is also quite hot and humid, with activities mostly held indoors due to the risk of downpours. On the occasional sunny and dry days that do occur, consider a beachside getaway or attending a block party on Broad Street in Lagos Island.

Key events: Afropolitan Vibes Music Festival (held every quarter), Dance Gathering

October and November

From late October to November, the dry season in Lagos begins – as well as the run-up to December’s festivities. Since prices begin to climb during this period, it is advisable to book your flights and accommodation well in advance. The perfect weather for outdoor events means several festivals and concerts happen around this time.

Key events: GTB Fashion Week, Lagos Fashion Week, ARTXLagos, Mastercard Restaurant Week, Lagos Book & Art Festival, concerts

December

Most Nigerians will tell you December is the best month to visit Lagos. The harmattan winds blow from the Sahara toward the Gulf of Guinea, ushering in cool, dry weather conditions. The coming and going of people adds buzz as well, as adopted Lagosians head to their various hometowns for the holidays and many arrive in town from abroad. Several events are planned to coincide with this annual return of diaspora Nigerians living abroad; visitors can also enjoy the Christmas and New Year festivities, with events and festivals held all month long.

Key events: Concerts, live stage musicals at Terra Kulture and Muson Centre, EatDrinkFestival, Christmas and New Year celebrations

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