Must-Visit Food Festivals in Nigeria: Ultimate Culinary Tourism

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Food is one of the most authentic ways to experience a culture, and in Nigeria, food festivals offer travellers an immersive look into the country’s rich culinary heritage.

From sizzling street snacks and regional delicacies to gourmet fusion dishes, every food festival in Nigeria is a celebration of flavour, music, and community.

In 2025, culinary tourism in Nigeria is booming, with vibrant events across the country drawing food lovers from near and far. This guide highlights the most exciting food festivals Nigeria has to offer, while also exploring cultural events, gourmet trends, and tips for visiting safely.

Major Food Festivals in Nigeria 2025

Food festivals in Nigeria are more than just meals. They are cultural gatherings where tradition, music, and community converge. For travellers exploring culinary tourism, these events demonstrate how food shapes social life, identity, and creativity.

Here are some of the major food festivals in Nigeria worth experiencing in 2025:

1. Lagos Food and Drink Festival

Nigeria’s largest food and drink festival, where chefs, restaurants, and street vendors serve everything from suya and small chops to international fusion dishes. Visitors can enjoy cooking demonstrations, tastings, and music performances in one vibrant location. Explore the Lagos Food and Drink Festival

2. Calabar Food Festival

A colorful blend of Nigerian street food, music, and performances. Reflecting Calabar’s carnival spirit, this festival combines culinary delights with a cultural showcase of dances, masquerades, and community events.  Join food enthusiasts at EatDrink Festival Abuja

3. EatDrink Festival, Abuja

Spotlighting young chefs and modern interpretations of traditional dishes, the festival highlights Nigeria’s evolving culinary scene while keeping authentic flavours at the centre. Savor delights at EatDrink Festival Abuja

4. Ofada Rice Festival, Ogun State

Celebrating Nigeria’s indigenous Ofada rice, this festival features tastings, cooking contests, and bustling local markets. It showcases the pride communities take in staple foods and the farmers who grow them. Join the Ofada Rice Day Festival

5. Jollof Rice Competitions

Held in various states, these competitions pit communities and chefs against one another to determine who makes the best jollof rice. These events are both culinary and cultural, uniting travellers and locals in celebration. Compete in the Jollof Rice Festival

Cultural Events Where Food Plays a Central Role

Food in Nigeria extends beyond meals. It is an integral part of celebrations, rituals, and community traditions. Many cultural events also double as food festivals, giving visitors a chance to experience local cuisine in authentic settings.

1. Ovia-Osese Festival, Ogori, Kogi State

A week-long maiden rite-of-passage festival featuring communal cooking, dances, and competitions, making food an essential part of the festivities.

2. Nnewi Afiaolu (New Yam) Festival, Anambra

The king performs the Iwa-Ji, or first tasting of new yams, followed by community feasts, masquerades, and dance performances. This harvest celebration honours the land and the local cuisine.

3. Argungu Fishing and Cultural Festival, Kebbi

A four-day festival culminating in a mass fishing contest, combined with food stalls serving northern delicacies like tuwo shinkafa, miyan kuka, suya, and kilishi. The festival is as much about culinary discovery as it is about sport and tradition.

Learn More here; The Sacred Rituals of the Argungu Fishing Festival

4. Ekpe Masquerade Festival, Cross River State

Known for its colorful masquerades and performances, this festival also showcases Efik and Ibibio cuisine, including street food and communal dining experiences.

Discover more: Ekpe Masquerade Festival in Cross River

Discover authentic Nigerian traditions and festivals with Rex Clarke Adventures.

Gourmet Trends and Upcoming Food Festivals in 2025

Food festivals in Nigeria are increasingly becoming business and cultural hubs. In 2025, they showcase local dishes, support small businesses, and highlight new gourmet trends.

Some key festivals and trends include:

• GTCO Festival, Lagos: Over 200 stalls, street food zones, and chef-led masterclasses, supporting culinary entrepreneurs. Attend the GTCO Food and Drink Festival

• Unique Food Festival, Agege, Lagos: Focused on the “Agricultural Green Revolution”, connecting farmers, processors, and consumers.

• Nigeria Food Summit 2025, Lagos: Addressed sustainability, food security, and technology in culinary tourism.

• Foodaholic Festival, Ikeja: Features food courts, grills, competitions, and live performances with government backing.

• Bole Festival, Port Harcourt: Celebrated with roasted plantain, fish, and pepper sauce, combining street food, music, and crafts.

These events highlight the growing blend of traditional flavours and contemporary gourmet innovations in Nigerian cuisine.

Street Food Safety Tips at Nigerian Food Festivals

Nigerian street food is a highlight of culinary tourism, but travellers should follow basic safety practices:

• Eat fresh and hot: Choose meals cooked in front of you.

• Follow the crowd: Popular vendors are usually safer and tastier.

• Stay hydrated: Carry bottled water and avoid ice from unknown sources.

• Be prepared: Hand sanitiser and tissues go a long way.

Following these tips ensures a safe and enjoyable culinary experience.

Conclusion: Why Nigerian Food Festivals Are a Must-Experience

Food festivals in Nigeria are a window into the country’s vibrant culinary culture. They celebrate local cuisine while embracing modern trends, supporting small businesses, and promoting tourism.

From street snacks to gourmet showcases, these events give travellers an unforgettable taste of Nigeria’s rich heritage, community spirit, and creative culinary scene.

Whether visiting Lagos, Calabar, or the quieter regions, food festivals offer both flavour and cultural insight, making them an essential part of any Nigerian travel experience.

Explore More;

• Lagos Seafood Festival 2025: Boosting Tourism with Culinary Delights
• Exploring Nigeria’s Urban Culture Through Food, Art, and Festivals
• How Nigerian Street Food Is Winning Over Global Foodies
• How Enioluwa is Making Nigerian Food & Language Cool Again Via Viral Content

Frequently Asked Questions About Food Festivals in Nigeria

1. What is the biggest food festival in Nigeria?
The GTBank Food and Drink Festival in Lagos is widely regarded as Nigeria’s largest, attracting thousands of visitors, vendors, and international chefs.

2. Are Nigerian food festivals open to tourists?
Yes. Festivals such as the Naija Food Festival and Calabar Food Festival welcome international visitors and showcase both local and global culinary trends.

3. What foods are usually found at Nigerian food festivals?
Expect street food like suya, asun, puff-puff, small chops, and regional staples like tuwo shinkafa, miyan kuka, and banga soup. Gourmet reinterpretations are also common.

4. Do food festivals only happen in Lagos?
No. Festivals take place across Nigeria, including Abuja, Port Harcourt, and Calabar, each reflecting regional cuisine and traditions.

5. How do Nigerian food festivals mix tradition with modern dining?
Afro-fusion dining combines local ingredients with global techniques, allowing visitors to enjoy both authentic flavours and innovative creations.