The cultural diversity and heritage in Lagos has led to the emergence of a variety of vibrant cultural and traditional festivals within the state. These festivals serve as platforms to showcase the rich history, arts, entertainment, and lifestyles of its people. The earliest documented festival in Lagos dates back to the 19th century, with the inaugural festival staged at Oke Ipa, located at the end of Glover Road in the Ikoyi area . Subsequently, numerous festivals have been held to commemorate various aspects of culture, art, and lifestyle in Lagos.
18-460: The Eyo festival , celebrated on Lagos Island , features white-clad masquerades wielding long staffs, which serve as the focal point of the event. Its origins trace back to 1854, initially held to guide the soul of a departed Lagos King or Chief and to usher in a new monarch. Over the past 25 years, the festival has occurred thrice and has expanded its purpose to include celebrations of notable individuals. The Gẹlẹdẹ festival holds strong in
36-527: A staff. When this happens, it means the event will take place on the following Saturday. Each of the four other Eyo groups — Laba (Red), Oniko (yellow), Ologede (Green) and Agere (Purple) — take their turns in that order from Monday to Thursday. Historically, Iperu is the source, cradle and originator of Eyo in Nigeria and the world. There are 5 different branches/types of Iga Eyo in Iperu Akesan Names of
54-643: A town in Ikenne Local Government, Ogun State. In modern times, it is presented by the people of Lagos as a tourist event. Due to the history of its development, it is traditionally performed on Lagos Island . A notable festival date was in 2000 commemorating Justice G.B.A. Coker , a Lagos high chief , the Olori Adimu and the Olori Eyo of the Adimu Eyo cultural masquerade. The word "Eyo" also refers to
72-474: Is a homage to his death. The ritual is also organized to commemorate the election of a new leader. Traditionally, it only occurs at these times. Nowadays, and because it is such a traditional festival, it can be celebrated for the death of a notable person, or to celebrate a special occasion such as visits by heads of state. Here, the participants all pay homage to the reigning Oba of Lagos. The festival takes place whenever occasion and tradition demand, though it
90-528: Is a platform that celebrates Nigerian cuisine and delicacies, fostering an awareness of the nation's rich culinary culture. This annual event, held during the Independence Weekend holiday, unites Nigerians with their shared love for good food and beverages. The EatDrinkFestival , organized by EatDrinkLagos and sponsored by Sterling Bank , debuted in 2015. It provides a platform for the exploration of culinary delights and diverse flavors, contributing to
108-667: Is an annual music festival inaugurated in 1998 by Yeni Anikulapo-Kuti to honor the legacy of her father, Fela Kuti , a Nigerian musician and pioneer of the Afrobeat music genre, as well as a human rights activist. The festival, held at the New Afrika Shrine in Ikeja , spans a week and attracts participants from various nations, making it a recognized tourist destination endorsed by the Lagos State Government . Felabration aligns with
126-612: Is closed to traffic, allowing for procession from Idumota to the Iga Idunganran palace. The white-clad Eyo masquerades represent the spirits of the dead, and are referred to in Yoruba as "agogoro Eyo" (literally: "tall Eyo"). The first procession in Lagos was on 20 February 1854, to commemorate the life of the Oba Akintoye . Eyos (the masquerades) celebrate a Oba's (king) life. Eyo Festival
144-477: Is usually held as part of the final burial rites of a highly regarded chief in the king's court. Among the Yorubas , the indigenous religions have largely lost the greater majority of their traditional followers to Christianity and Islam . Be that as it may, the old festivals are still almost universally observed as tourist attractions which generate large amounts of revenue for government and small business around
162-528: The Ikorodu local government area of Lagos State. This festival, associated with the Gẹlẹdẹ society, fosters social harmony and gender equality, involving both men and women. Distinguished by the vibrant display of society members adorned in colorful masks, the festival combines art and ritual dance to entertain, educate, and inspire worship. The event serves various purposes, including improving individuals' lives, purifying
180-547: The Lagos Island venue of the Eyo festival. It is during these occasions that their traditional monarchs and nobles exercise the most of their residual power. In his book Nigerian Festivals , travel writer and culture reporter Pelu Awofeso notes: A full week before the festival (always a Sunday), the ‘senior’ eyo group, the Adimu (identified by a black, broad-rimmed hat), goes public with
198-413: The appreciation of food culture. The GTBank Food and Drink Festival , an annual multi-day event organized by Guaranty Trust Bank, showcases an array of culinary creations and beverage experiences from Africa. The inaugural two-day edition was held in 2016, followed by subsequent four-day events. The festival has emerged as a platform for spotlighting the continent's culinary diversity. Felabration
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#1732872734283216-463: The community, invoking rain, enhancing fertility, seeking supernatural support, and honoring the deceased. The Lagos Black Heritage Festival highlights the diverse African culture and heritage. The event encompasses a range of performances, from traditional to contemporary dances, drama, music, painting, and photography exhibitions. By organizing the Carnival, the festival provides an opportunity for
234-416: The costumed dancers, known as the masquerades that come out during the festival. The origins of this observance are found in the inner workings of the secret societies of Lagos. Back in the day, the Eyo festival was held to escort the soul of a departed Lagos King or Chief and to usher in a new king. On Eyo Day, the main highway in the heart of the city (from the end of Carter Bridge to Tinubu Square )
252-597: The families and Iga of Eyo each represents are: The major source of éyo in Iperu is the Iga éyo Pakeriké and other 4 are the Iperu Royal houses. History made us to understand that Eyó was brought to Lagos to entertain an in-law which has now become something more celebrated in Lagos today. Akesan aagbé wa! Remo asuwon ooo! Here is a list of prohibited items at the festival: The masquerades are known to beat people who use any of
270-569: The guidance of Wilson Joel since 2013. See also: List of schools in Lagos See also: List of hospitals in Lagos See also: List of festivals in Lagos See also: Architecture of Lagos Eyo festival The Eyo Festival , otherwise known as the Adamu Orisha Play , is a Yoruba festival unique to Lagos , Nigeria and has a strong historical footing in Iperu-Remo ,
288-470: The lead pastor of House on the Rock , the event debuted in 2006 with an attendance of 70,000 individuals. The Experience features both local and international gospel artists, including names such as Kirk Franklin , CeCe Winans , Donnie McClurkin , Don Moen , Frank Edwards , Nathaniel Bassey , and Chioma Jesus. Recognized as one of Africa's premier musical events, The Experience's music direction has been under
306-717: The various ethnic groups residing in Lagos to forge new relationships. The Lagos Book and Art Festival (LABAF), established in 1999, serves as a catalyst for promoting the cultural significance of books. It aims to kindle interest in reading and writing in indigenous languages in Nigeria . This annual seven-day festival takes place across various venues, including the Goethe-Institute, the British Council, and Freedom Park , all situated in Lagos State. The Lagos Food Festival
324-476: The week of Fela Kuti 's birthday and encompasses musical performances by renowned local and international artists, along with street parades, symposia on pertinent issues, engaging debates, and captivating photo exhibitions. The Experience , commonly referred to as The Experience Lagos, is an annual gospel music concert held at the Tafawa Balewa Square on Lagos Island. Conceived by Paul Adefarasin ,
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