It’s that time of the year again! The term “Detty December” has over the years become synonymous with fun, excitement and living life on the edge to the maximum capacity. All through the months of December and January, the continent lights up with a bevy of thrilling festivals and events in celebration of the best of African music, art, fashion, and culture.
From Lagos to Cape Town, we’ve curated a list of the most exciting festivals across the continent that you should attend.
In no particular order…
Nigeria’s longest-running annual concert series, Coca Cola Rhythm Unplugged, is set to celebrate 20 years of fostering the best of Nigerian live music culture with a bang from December 22nd to the 25th at the Eko Convention Centre, Eko Hotel & Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos. The festival will kick off with a headline performance from American rap sensation, Gunna, on December 22nd, followed by Nigerian rap legend Olamide on December 23rd, four-time Grammy-nominated singer Davido on December 24th, and Afro-pop sensation Ayra Starr headlining her first concert in Nigeria on December 25th.
On December 22nd at The Laureate Gardens in Nairobi, Kenya, Blankets & Wine will make its return for its final iteration of the year following its ambitious ploy to host four editions in a single year. Taking the stage is a lineup of stellar Kenyan talent such as Xenia Manasseh, Nyashinski, Necessary Noize, Njerae, Idd Aziz, and more.
NATIVELAND, the annual music festival driven by Nigerian media company, NATIVE Networks will be returning for its 6th edition on the 21st of December. Over the years, the festival has celebrated the diversity of African music on the continent and the diaspora with past editions featuring Uncle Waffles, Skepta, Koffee, Dave, Burna Boy, Amaarae, Ayra Starr, Odunsi (The Engine), Cruel Santino and more. This year, Central Cee will take the stage
Global cultural entertainment platform, AfroFuture, is back with another curated music event for the season. AfroFuture’s Culture Beach Jam will take over the Polo Beach Club in Accra, Ghana on the 28th & 29th of December to offer the best of African music, art, food, fashion & immersive experiences. On day 1, Shallipopi, King Promise, Joey B, DJ Tunez, and Sabrina will take the stage while Omah Lay, Kids, AraTheJay, and OliveTheBoy, will perform on day
All year long, Dirty Sexy Rave (DSR) by the Vogue Boys has been shaking up the rave scene in Lagos, Nigeria. For its final instalment of the series, DSR will be taking over the Livespot Entertainment Centre on the 26th of December to deliver an electrifying night of great music.
Operating at the pulse of Zimbabwe’s Afro House scene in the country’s second-largest city, Bulawayo, Garden of House has provided a vibrant platform for House DJs fostered a community of people who share the love for music. Garden of House returns on the 24th of December featuring a cast of local and international DJs including Ash T, Thakzin, ACE FRVR, and Jnr SA.
Created by international DJ, entrepreneur, and producer Shimza, Kunye is an Afro House experience celebrating South Africa’s diverse music scene. It bridges the gap between established stars and rising talent, connecting them to the world. On December 29, Kunye brings its unique vibe to Cape Town, featuring performances by Sun-El Musician, Kitty Amor, Kid Fonque, Darque, and more.
The Milk + Cookies Festival kicks off 2025 with a bang as Kaytranada brings his “Timeless Tour” to South Africa. The festival debuts in Cape Town on January 5 and Johannesburg on January 11. Known for hosting top-tier talent like Ella Mai, Jay Rock, and Kyle, the festival is making its African debut with the inaugural Milk and Cookies Music Week South Africa—an 11-day cultural celebration featuring concerts, immersive experiences, and artist development programs.
Mark your calendar for one of 2025’s most anticipated events: Heineken House. Taking place on January 25, it’s a creative fusion of art, music, and fashion. This year’s headline act is none other than four-time Grammy-nominated Gunna, promising an unforgettable experience.
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