The city of Lagos is gearing up for an extraordinary cultural experience as it prepares to host the inaugural Shakara Festival, a four-day outdoor celebration of music, art, and African identity scheduled to run from Thursday, December 18 to Sunday, December 21, 2025, at Nautica Beach Resort, Lekki.
Designed to redefine Africa’s place on the global entertainment map, the Shakara Festival promises an immersive blend of live music, cultural showcases, and creative enterprise, creating a one-of-a-kind experience that captures the vibrant essence of Nigerian and African artistry.
According to organisers, the event is expected to draw over 20,000 attendees daily, including diaspora returnees, international visitors, and local music lovers looking to experience the heartbeat of “Detty December” in Lagos.
Throughout the festival, attendees will enjoy a rich program that combines music, fashion, food, and conversation, with activities spread across themed segments — from Shakara Junction, a bustling creative marketplace featuring vendors, artisans, and culinary talents, to Shakara Afterdark, a series of exclusive nighttime parties curated with some of Lagos’ most iconic rave collectives.
During the day, guests will participate in panel discussions led by industry figures exploring topics such as the business of music, the creative economy, and Africa’s global influence. Afternoons will transition into live performances featuring both legendary and rising stars across genres like Afrobeats, Soul, Gospel, Alté, Afro-Fusion, and Alternative music.
“We wanted to build something that was truly groundbreaking for the Nigerian music scene,” said Godson Oriaku, CEO and Founder of Shakara Festival. “Shakara is about authentic expression and creating a space where different sounds and people can connect. From soul and gospel to the grittiest Alté, we are unifying Africa’s diverse musical landscape in one massive celebration.”
While the official lineup of performers will be announced in the coming weeks, organisers say the festival will feature a dynamic mix of homegrown and international acts, positioning Lagos as a global destination for live music and cultural experiences.
Abiola Francesca Dacosta-Ajayi, Founding Partner of Shakara Festival, described the event as more than just entertainment, calling it a movement of creative empowerment and cultural pride.
“Shakara Festival is more than just a music event; it’s a pioneering movement. We are creating a world-class platform to celebrate the richness of our culture and the incredible talent that Africa possesses. This festival is our gift to Lagos and a bold statement to the world about the power and influence of our creative spirit,” she said.
Okay News reports that the Shakara Festival aims to become an annual fixture in the Lagos entertainment calendar, a celebration of African rhythm, innovation, and identity that merges the continent’s creative past with its promising future.
