How to Enjoy Detty December Across Lagos, Abuja, and Accra, Culturally

I grew up in Lagos, Nigeria and since childhood, I have loved Christmas. 

I looked forward to visiting my grandparents in the village, to seeing cousins that I had not seen the entire year and spending a lot of time eating and playing around. 

My favourite thing to do was explore the village. Visit the streams, watch local boxing and football matches, watch the masquerades dance and each time wondering if my grandma would ever allow me to join the children who walked around with the masquerades. ( I knew she wouldn’t but a girl can dream, no?”. 

As I grew up, Christmas changed. My grandma died and my mother's siblings barely came together as much. Everyone grew up and formed new Christmas traditions, I on the other hand stuck to exploring cultures, away from Lagos in different parts of Nigeria and I have had so much fun doing it. 

The thing with this is my friends think it is weird. While they went to parties and concerts, I preferred to go to places that showcased culture in fashion, music, and many other ways and they always bashed me for it until I took them to a few of these places and changed their minds like I am about to change yours. 

Lagos: The City That Never Sleeps

Lagos, often called the commercial heartbeat of Nigeria, takes Detty December to another level. From Victoria Island to Lekki, the city is drenched in music, lights, and festive energy. One of the cultural highlights is the surge of Afrobeat concerts featuring both global stars and local talent. If you’re a fan of music, it’s not just about the famous venues; street performances in areas like Ikeja and Surulere bring local rhythms to the forefront.

Dance is another integral part of Lagos’ festivities. Traditional Yoruba dances like Bata and Sango are often featured in public events, especially in heritage centers or community festivals. These aren’t just performances; they are celebrations of history and identity, making every drumbeat an invitation to join in.

Art lovers also have reason to rejoice. Lagos hosts several pop-up art exhibitions and gallery showcases in December. Contemporary artists present pieces reflecting modern Nigerian life, while traditional crafts markets give a peek into the country’s rich artisan heritage. If you want to truly immerse yourself, staying close to these cultural hubs is ideal. Shortlets in neighborhoods like Victoria Island, Ikoyi, or Lekki make this possible—they allow you to be near the action while giving you a private retreat after a night of music, dance, and city lights.

Abuja: The Rising Detty December Hub

While Lagos has long been the traditional hotspot, Abuja has quietly emerged as a must-visit city during Detty December. You can enjoy urban vibes and cultural depth. Abuja’s party scene may be newer, but it’s quickly becoming renowned for its stylish events, rooftop gatherings, and live music sessions that attract visitors from across Nigeria and beyond.

Cultural events in Abuja go beyond nightlife. The city celebrates traditional dances from different ethnic groups, with displays of Gwari, Hausa, and Nupe heritage in festivals and public performances. Art exhibitions in galleries like Nike Art Gallery Abuja also highlight contemporary Nigerian talent, offering everything from photography and sculptures to fashion shows.

For visitors who want to enjoy the festivities without the hassle of long commutes, shortlets in central districts like Wuse, Garki, or Maitama provide the perfect solution. You get privacy, comfort, and the convenience of being close to both cultural events and nightlife hotspots, making it easy to transition from a morning art walk to an evening live music show.

Accra: The Ghanaian Beat

Crossing the border into Ghana, Accra embraces Detty December with a mix of tradition, modern music, and coastal charm. The city’s cultural calendar is packed with local festivals, street carnivals, and live music that spans hiplife, Afrobeat, and highlife. Jamestown and Osu districts are famous for their vibrant street performances, where drumming, dance, and storytelling merge into an unforgettable experience.

Accra’s art scene also deserves a spotlight. The annual December art fairs showcase works from emerging and established artists alike. Whether it’s contemporary paintings, textile designs, or traditional crafts, these exhibitions reflect the city’s commitment to preserving culture while celebrating innovation. Food markets in Accra also become cultural hubs, where locals and visitors mingle over Ghanaian delicacies like kelewele, banku, and grilled tilapia, adding flavor to the festive rhythm.

For travelers, shortlets near Osu, Labadi, or East Legon offer the ideal balance: close enough to experience the city’s cultural pulse yet private enough to relax after a day of exploring and dancing.

Why Shortlets Make Sense During Detty December

Across Lagos, Abuja, and Accra, the rise of shortlets has transformed the way people experience Detty December. Unlike traditional hotels, shortlets provide a home-away-from-home vibe, with privacy, comfort, and flexibility. They allow travelers to stay near cultural hotspots, pop-up concerts, or art galleries without the hassle of long commutes. You can drop in at a street carnival, enjoy a late-night music session, and return to a cozy, private space to recharge for the next day’s adventure.

Whether you’re a solo traveler, couple, or group of friends, shortlets offer convenience without compromising on the experience. It’s no wonder more people are choosing them to immerse themselves fully in the festive energy of these cities.

Conclusion

Detty December is your chance to explore other cultures. Lagos dazzles with its music and urban energy, Abuja surprises with its blend of modern nightlife and ethnic heritage, and Accra charms with its coastal festivals and art scene. Across all three cities, music, dance, art, and food converge to create a truly unforgettable experience.

And thanks to Flattts shortlets, experiencing all this culture has never been easier. You get to stay close to the action, enjoy your privacy, and explore each city’s unique vibe without stress. So, whether you’re chasing beats, enjoying local flavors, or simply soaking up the festive atmosphere, Flattts has shortlets in these cities that suit your taste.