Festivals Travel & Tourism Travel Tips Top Christmas Festivals in Nigeria 2025 for Tourists and Families Confidence NwaobiNovember 17, 20250544 views Christmas in Nigeria is more than a holiday; it’s an experience. From dazzling lights and parades to cultural shows and street markets, the festive season brings a special kind of magic to cities across the country. For tourists, Nigerians at home, and diaspora visitors returning for the holidays, it’s the perfect time to explore the rich culture, cuisine, and warmth of Nigeria. Here’s your guide to some of the best Christmas festivals in Nigeria for 2025, along with insider tips to make your visit smooth and memorable. Christmas Festivals in Nigeria for Tourists in 2025 1. Christmas Village, Abuja Abuja’s Christmas Village is one of the most loved festive spots in Nigeria’s capital. Set near the International Conference Centre, the festival features a towering Christmas tree, beautifully decorated zones, and a range of family-friendly activities. What makes it special: An enormous Christmas tree with thousands of LED lights. Live performances by local choirs and musicians. Festive food stalls offering Nigerian and international delicacies. Fun activities for children, including face painting, craft-making, and games. Tips for tourists: Visit during weekends when live performances are scheduled. Arrive early in the evening to experience the full light display and take advantage of photo opportunities. Combine your visit with a short trip to nearby attractions, like Jabi Lake or Millennium Park. Abuja’s Christmas Village is an excellent mix of traditional and modern festive cheer, making it perfect for families, couples, and solo travellers alike. 2. Calabar Christmas Celebrations Calabar, often called Nigeria’s “Pleasure City,” is famous for its December carnival, but its Christmas festivities are equally captivating. The city comes alive with cultural performances, festive markets, and music events that continue through the holiday season. Highlights for tourists: City-wide Christmas light displays make walking around a magical experience. Traditional dances, masquerades, and performances showcase the rich culture of the Cross River region. Markets selling crafts, gifts, and local culinary delights. Street performances and small pop-up concerts in different parts of the city. Tips for tourists: Early December visits are less crowded, offering a more relaxed experience. Don’t miss the opportunity to taste local dishes such as Afang soup, jollof rice, and roasted plantains. Take a stroll along the Tinapa Business and Leisure Resort for festive shopping and photos. Calabar’s blend of cultural richness and holiday spirit makes it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to experience an authentic Nigerian Christmas. YOU MAY LIKE: How to Get Cheap Flights in Nigeria for December Trips (2025 Guide) The Best Nigerian Road Networks for a Memorable Holiday Travel (2025 Guide) Travel Health Tips for Nigerians Flying Home This Christmas 3. Christmas in Badagry, Lagos Badagry, located in Lagos State, is home to one of Nigeria’s earliest festive celebrations. Known for its historical heritage, the town also embraces the Christmas spirit with street parades, music performances, and beautifully decorated venues. What you’ll see: Street parades with floats, performers, and dancers. Cultural showcases highlighting Yoruba traditions. Food stalls serving Nigerian Christmas favourites like meat pies, suya, and chin chin. Opportunities for buying handcrafted souvenirs and local artwork. Tips for tourists: Staying overnight in Badagry or nearby Lagos areas can help you avoid heavy traffic. Combine your festival visit with a tour of Badagry’s historical sites, such as the Slave Route Museum. Badagry’s combination of history and Christmas celebration makes it both educational and entertaining for visitors. 4. Enugu Christmas Festival Enugu’s festive celebrations bring together traditional performances, modern entertainment, and local markets. It’s an opportunity to experience Igbo culture while enjoying holiday fun. Festival features: Live masquerade performances and cultural dances. Street markets offer a variety of handcrafted gifts, festive snacks, and drinks. Community-centred activities, such as charity events and public concerts. Tips for tourists: Try local delicacies like abacha, roasted yam, and ogi. Visit during late afternoon or evening to enjoy performances with the lighting displays. Combine the festival visit with sightseeing around the city, including Ngwo Pine Forest and Awhum Waterfall. Enugu’s warm community atmosphere and cultural focus make it a festival where tourists can genuinely connect with local traditions. 5. Bigi & Sosa Naija Christmas Village, Lagos Located at Ikeja City Mall, Bigi & Sosa Naija Christmas Village is a family-friendly holiday attraction running for several days in December. Highlights include: Interactive games and workshops for children. Santa meet-and-greets and festive photo opportunities. Food stalls offering a mix of traditional and modern Christmas snacks. Craft stations for making holiday decorations. Tips for tourists: Arrive early in the day to secure spots for children’s activities. Consider combining this visit with nearby shopping or dining at Ikeja City Mall. This event is perfect for families and tourists seeking a lively, safe, and interactive festive experience. Travel Tips for Christmas Festivals in Nigeria Book early: December is peak season; flights and hotels fill up fast. Dress appropriately: Comfortable shoes and clothing are essential for walking and participating in outdoor activities. Stay hydrated: Long festival days can be tiring; carry water, especially in warmer cities like Lagos and Calabar. Use trusted transportation: ride-hailing apps and hotel shuttles are recommended for safety. Try local food, such as jollof rice, chin chin, and suya, as these dishes are essential to the experience. Capture memories: These festivals are visually stunning; don’t forget your camera. Check event schedules: Some activities occur on specific days; planning ensures you don’t miss key performances. From festive lights and performances to local food and markets, Nigeria during Christmas is a feast for the senses. Tourists, Nigerians at home, and those returning from abroad will find holiday joy in every corner. Pack your bags, bring your camera, and prepare for a festive adventure you’ll never forget. Adventure meets discovery — explore the sights, sounds, and spirit of Nigeria with Rex Clarke Adventures’ Travel & Tourism stories. FAQs: Christmas Festivals in Nigeria Q1: Are these festivals family-friendly? Absolutely. Most Nigerian Christmas festivals include activities for children, performances, and safe environments suitable for all ages. Q2: Which city is best for tourists visiting Nigeria for Christmas? Abuja—a central, accessible, and visually striking Christmas village. Calabar —cultural immersion and city-wide light displays. Lagos —high-energy parades, markets, and interactive events. Enugu – Local culture, community-focused celebrations, and markets. Q3: Do festivals require tickets? Some may require tickets (especially entry to special attractions), while others, such as street light-ups, are free. Always verify official sources. Q4: Is accommodation available nearby? Yes. Cities hosting these festivals typically have hotels, guesthouses, and Airbnb options located near the festival venues. Book early to secure your spot. Q5: Are these festivals safe? Generally, yes. Stick to crowded, well-lit areas, use reputable transport, and secure your valuables.