Órüpézá Festival returns to Lagos with music, fashion, film and art, promising a vibrant five-day celebration of Nigerian creativity and heritage

Órüpézá Festival is set to light up Freedom Park on Lagos Island once again, as the much-anticipated cultural celebration returns from September 28 to October 2, 2025.

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Timed to align with Nigeria’s Independence Day on October 1, this year’s edition promises to be an electrifying five-day spectacle of music, film, fashion, dance, gaming, visual arts, and food.

Building on the success of its 2024 edition, which ran during the Freedom Festival Week, organisers are preparing to host an audience of over 20,000 participants.

Last year’s festival was widely praised for its powerful blend of entertainment and thought-provoking expression, sparking conversations around identity, community, and legacy.

“Between fiery afrobeat anthems, soulful ballads, spoken word and comedy, the programme not only entertained but also sparked conversations on identity, legacy, and community,” a statement from the organisers noted.

A major highlight of the previous edition was the launch of the Órüpézá Cultural Honours, recognising individuals who have shaped Nigeria’s creative heritage.

Honourees included veteran journalist and culture advocate Jahman Anikulapo, renowned sculptor Bruce Onobrakpeya, and iconic actress Taiwo Ajayi-Lycett.

Their recognition reflected the festival’s deeper mission: to bridge generations and affirm culture as the bedrock of community.

Festival Director Edi Lawani described the initiative as a “cultural economy in motion”, noting that the 2025 edition aims to extend the legacy further.

“Last year, we honoured legends who paved the way. This year, we are deepening that vision by creating more platforms for youth, communities, and new stories. The festival is about freedom, but it is also about belonging and legacy,” Lawani stated.

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The Órüpézá Festival continues to grow not just as an event, but as a symbol of cultural identity and economic potential, threading together Nigeria’s past, present, and emerging voices.