Detty December turns Lagos into a monthlong season of partying

In Lagos, December has become “Detty December,” a monthlong stretch of nonstop parties, reunions and events that draws both residents and members of the Nigerian diaspora back to the megacity. The city — home to about 20 million people, “or maybe even more,” according to the report — fills up with raves, weddings, art shows, food festivals and big-name Afrobeats concerts.

D.J.s such as Yosa and the co-founder of the rave scene known as Aniko are working multiple late-night sets; Becky Ochulo, who programs rave experiences, shouted, “Detty December is back to back to back to back to back!” at a 2 a.m. Monday rave. The musician Mr. Eazi says he coined the term in 2016, with “detty” a local variation on “dirty,” meaning “heavy” or “wild.” The month also has clear economic and social textures: returning visitors known as “I.J.G.B.s” (“I Just Got Back”) tend to spend money earned abroad, and for many Lagosians December “is the month that pays for the year.” Wedding photographer Tomiwa Ajayi called it both his most lucrative month and “the month to dread.” Traditions such as spraying banknotes at weddings sit alongside more accessible events — Aniko’s raves, which welcome the L.G.B.T.Q.

community, can cost only $7–$10 to enter — while others cannot afford even those prices. Pacing and stamina are recurring themes: performers and revelers balance multiple gigs and services, and many will still be up early for church.

Key Topics

Culture, Detty December, Lagos, Yosa, Aniko, Mr. Eazi