Detty December in Nigeria & Ghana: OkayAfrica’s Ultimate Guide to Food, Fun & Safety
Planning your Detty December? From Airbnbs and short-stay apartments to the best restaurants, nightlife hotspots, and safety tips, here’s everything you need to enjoy the holiday season in Lagos and Accra.
Nelson C.J.NelsonC.J.
Throughout the month, West Africans across the diaspora, especially Ghanaians and Nigerians, make their way back to Lagos and Accra, two of the continent’s biggest cultural capitals.by Ernest Ankomah/Getty Images
It’s less than a week to the most wonderful month of the year, for many West Africans at least. December, known famously around these parts, as Detty December – a phrase coined by Afrobeats artist Mr Eazi, which refers to an indulgent, enjoyment-filled month leading up to Christmas. Throughout the month, West Africans across the diaspora, especially Ghanaians and Nigerians, make their way back to Lagos and Accra, two of the continent’s biggest cultural capitals.
In the past few years, Lagos and Accra have also become the main capitals of the Detty December movement. In the cities, parties often begin at midnight and end at noon the next day. Concerts, festivals, beach parties, house parties, weddings, picnics, and barbecue parties are some of the activities to expect during this month. In December 2024, 1.2 million people visited Lagos, according to a report by MO Africa Company Limited. The report estimated that these visitors added N111.5 billion (approximately $76, 233, 775) to the tourism and entertainment sector. In other places, like Calabar, 300,000 tourists attended the 32-day Calabar carnival, as confirmed by the Cross River Tourism bureau. The same success story is present in neighboring Ghana, which shares the same cultural energy of Detty December. The Nigerian government recently announced plans to capture that market and plans to expand the ambitions of Detty December.
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To prepare for what is gearing up to be a chaotic Detty December this year, below are some helpful tips for anyone participating in this year’s Detty December. This list will resonate with anyone, whether they are visiting for a couple of weeks or are a local in Lagos or Accra. It’ll also provide tips on how to have a balanced Detty December amidst the chaos.
First, Have A Plan
Regular Detty December participants should know that this is a month filled with long nights and short days. It’s also a period where so much happens at the same time, which makes it hard to know exactly where to go, what to do, or how to split your time between events. The trick is to have a plan for the night. Figure out what you want to do, and prepare for two to three functions per night. Check your energy levels to see if you are up for a long or short function, and always have a transportation plan should you need to leave at a moment’s notice. Before heading out for a party or concert, be comfortable with the possibility that the night might end at a club or a house party, so this means hydrating, wearing comfortable clothing, and having a power bank to keep your device and your portable fan (yes, you will need one) charged.
If You’re Visiting From Abroad, Always Carry Cash or Have Alternative Banking
With so many people around, establishments tend to see an influx of customers, which sometimes causes delays in traditional banking services. On the other hand, some businesses operate traditional card payment systems, meaning that if you’re not a local or do not have a Nigerian or Ghanaian bank account and do not have alternative banking options like Momo (widely accepted in Ghana), you need to carry cash. In Accra, you can easily change money at bureau de change offices and stores. These stores can be found at shopping malls and complexes, and busy commercial areas. In Lagos, bureau de change businesses are more informal. You can change money at the airport or by finding someone who can connect you with a money changer. It’s easier than you think. Carrying cash or having alternative banking will save you stress as you patronize local services.
Buy Local, Consume Ethically
A general view inside Alara concept store in Lagos, on August 20, 2025. With its modern red and black architecture, Alára, West Africa's first luxury fashion and decor concept store, stands out in the Nigerian megacity of Lagos. Ten years in business, the store has established itself as a temple of Afro-luxury under the vision of its founder, businesswoman Reni Folawiyo. (Photo by OLYMPIA DE MAISMONT / AFP) (Photo by OLYMPIA DE MAISMONT/AFP via Getty Images)by Olympia de Maismont/AFP via Getty Images
The Detty December season is often a period of economic boost. In places like Nigeria and Ghana, where foreign currency is stronger than the local rates, tourists automatically gain a higher purchasing power while businesses see more customers. Therefore, there is the prospect of a trickle-down in the economy….but it’s not that simple. As more tourists and visitors seek out premium options, due to their purchasing power, it is easy for local and small businesses to be left out of the Detty December market share. So, it is up to you to buy local and consume ethically. For shopping, patronize both high and mid-level stores. For services like hair and makeup, choose local. Smaller salons and studios benefit greatly from your patronage and offer excellent quality on par with more established providers. The trick is to mix things up so you are intentionally contributing to the local economy while having a wonderful time.
Connect with A Local
Whether you are visiting for the first time or are a Detty December regular, you need to have a few connections with people on the ground. These connections could be family members, old friends, or acquaintances. Having someone on the ground who lives or spends considerable time in Nigeria or Ghana would be incredibly helpful in figuring out everyday logistics and making sure you have a stable landing. For first-time visitors, it doesn’t hurt to sign up with travel groups led by local guides. These travel groups are a fantastic way to get a good grasp of the city and give you some confidence to venture out on your own should you decide to.
Hire A Reliable Means Of Transportation
With more people squeezing into already crowded cultural cities, the one thing that’s inevitable during this period is traffic jams. What this means is that ride-hailing services become increasingly expensive and sometimes nearly impossible to find when you need to go out or urgently leave a function. The best way to avoid this is to get a dedicated driver or driving service. In places like Lagos and Accra, car rental services allow you to rent a car for a specific amount of time. If your budget isn’t as high, you can find private drivers who would be willing to create a bespoke arrangement for you. And if you have friends who drive, it is best to stick with them and plan your outings with them. The point is, you need a reliable means of transportation to have a great time this period.
Take Breaks, Have Some Quiet Time
In Detty December, there is no shortage of events — everything is loud, chaotic, fast, and with no breaks in between. While this might be fun, it can also lead to burnout. So to prevent that, pace yourself. Find time to hang with family and friends in between concrete and parties. Take a short trip outside the main city. In Ghana, you can go on a drive to Cape Coast or even a short trip to Kumasi. In Nigeria, you can arrange a staycation in the ancient city of Ibadan or spend some days camping at a private beach. It is important to interrupt the chaotic experiences with moments of calm; your body and mind will thank you for it.
Double Check Everything
As with any festive period, Detty December is a time for businesses to try to make as much profit as possible. It is also a time for shady businesses to get their own share of a small market, trying to meet the needs of too many consumers. This is why it’s imperative to have a double-checking system in place when making bookings or purchases in this period. Before booking that hotel or short stay rental, ask a friend or family member to go and check it out for you. If that isn’t possible, ask for video footage of the space, and if all else fails, pay close attention to the reviews. Before renting that car or visiting that restaurant, speak to friends who are locals for their recommendations, and rely on their expertise as you try to expand your experience. The bottom line is always keep your eyes peeled.
Find additional recommendations for restaurants, nightclubs, and gathering spaces in Accra and Lagos:
