Lagos is a complex city full of stories and characters, the city that never sleep. Just making it through this city’s traffic can be a complete adventure. Are you in town for an extended period of time and what do in Lagos? You might want to try something new and experience a different side of the city. Get out and live like a local, from the cultural and important to the fun and bizarre of Lagos, Nigeria. Here’s few tips on having fun doing non-touristy things in Lagos.
Attend Owambe
The weekends in Lagos can be fun and exciting especially when we have amazing events to attend. Owambe is referred to as Lagos Party in Nigerian pop-culture. Owambe is a Yoruba word that literally translates to “it is there.” In other words; the party is there, and when there’s a Lagos party, then everything is there. Everything is in abundance, from food to drinks, music to dancing, and of course spraying (the act of throwing money on a dancing person). The legend has it that if you ever attended an owambe and did not enjoy it, then, you probably did a couple things wrong. Find you a trusted local buddy to take you to any Lagos social event – weddings, anniversaries, birthdays, etc. Thank us later!
Visit Fela Shrine – New Afrika Shrine
Locals and music-lovers love New Afrika Shrine. Fela Shrine a.k.a The New Afrika Shrine in Agidingbi, Ikeja draw music and culture lovers of all types all night throughout the year. The New Africa Shrine was opened in October 2000, in celebration and in honour of memory of the late Fela Kuti. Fela Anikulapo Kuti was a celebrated Nigerian musician and activist who spoke against bad governance and corruption. A candid supporter of human rights, and the pioneer of the Afrobeat music genre. For those who just want to enjoy live music scenery, this place allows visitors to get a comprehensive feel of the culture.
Fela Shrine is also home to Felabration, an annual, week-long music festival celebrating the memory and life of Fela Kuti. Established in 1998 by Yeni Anikulapo Kuti, Fela’s daughter, the event usually takes place in October, over the week of Fela’s birthday.
Address: Nerdc Rd, Agidingbi, Ikeja, Nigeria
Eat at the Bukka (Mama Put)
Hit the streets and feel the food like the locals do. Bukka or Buka is a local restaurant often found on the street corners. Bukka is also known as Mama Put. They are known to have signature native dishes – great tasting food, and they are cheaper than proper restaurants. A visit to one of these restaurants will have your taste buds singing yummies and wanting more. Experience street foods in Nigeria, the local style, best accompanied by a local, to avoid any faux pas in this adventure.
Watch a Football Match
Nigerians are die-hard football fans, if you love football, then watching a football match is a must-do. Make a day out of it by visiting any of the viewing centres on a match day. You could view the games from your television screens anywhere right? However, the special viewing centres in Lagos offer a more feel vibrant feel of the football culture in Nigeria. From Heineken House Lagos to Freedom Park, there are plenty of great sports bars around the city where you can watch a boisterous game.
Go Beach Surfing
Lagos is sitting on the Atlantic Ocean means, it’s easy to see why Nigeria’s biggest city is a prime spot for surfers. Of course, it’s not the first thing that comes to mind, Lagos still offer a great to hit the waves. Tarkwa Bay is the most popular destination for surfers and water-sports enthusiasts in Lagos, Nigeria. You can rent a board or going the legion of kids and local surfers riding all manner of craft. Surfing or not, it’s always sun and fun at these beaches.
Explore what they are wearing in Lagos.
