This month marks the start of the peak concert and festival season—a vibrant yet complex time of year. My friends, we’ve officially entered the heart of Detty December! In this month’s column, I’ve curated a list of concerts, festivals, and parties across Ghana, Nigeria, Kenya, and South Africa where you can catch some of the hottest acts and experience incredible music. Highlights include Everyday People and Days Like This, two traveling events making multiple stops across the continent.
A Bit of Background
Across many African countries—most famously in the cultural hubs of Lagos, Nigeria, and Accra, Ghana—December through early January is a time for celebration and indulgence. The term Detty (a playful twist on “Dirty”) captures the fun-loving, hedonistic spirit of the season. It’s when the world’s biggest Afropop stars return home to headline festivals and concerts, beaches are alive with buzzing crowds of family and friends, and work slows down as schools close. It’s a season filled with endless joyful gatherings.
Growing up on the American East Coast, I was introduced to this festive tradition by my parents, who cherished their December trips back to Sierra Leone. My first visit was in 2002, at nine years old. Like many diasporans—whether we’re called JC (“Just Came”), IJGB (“I Just Got Back”), or another term—we use the holiday season to reconnect with family, escape the hustle of Western life, and soak in the warmth of home. Over time, Detty December has also drawn travelers from the broader African diaspora, turning it into a global celebration of Black culture and unity.
The Year of Return: A Turning Point
A key milestone in the growth of Detty December was Ghana’s Year of Return in 2019. This tourism initiative commemorated the 400th anniversary of the first enslaved Africans arriving in Virginia. Ghana made travel easier by offering visas on arrival and organized a packed calendar of cultural events. At the launch, then-President Nana Akufo-Addo emphasized the significance of the diaspora’s contributions and sacrifices. This initiative not only welcomed African Americans and other diasporans but also put Ghana at the center of the global stage for end-of-year celebrations.
The Sweet and the Complex
While Detty December is undoubtedly a time of joy, it comes with challenges. Travel to Africa in December is notoriously expensive, with roundtrip flights often reaching thousands of dollars—costs that have risen further post-COVID. On the ground, cities like Lagos and Accra experience price hikes as businesses cater to affluent visitors, often outpricing locals. This dynamic raises concerns about the potential marginalization of local communities, even as festivals create jobs and business opportunities.
For example, in 2023, Chance the Rapper highlighted these concerns while promoting his festival. Similarly, reports have noted that ongoing economic challenges have impacted the revenue streams for events businesses in Lagos and Accra this year.
Giving Back During Detty December
If you’re among those fortunate enough to afford Detty December’s luxuries, consider dedicating some time or resources to giving back. In Accra, for instance, AfroFuture (a leading music festival organizer) is hosting a Community Health Fair on December 27. In collaboration with Black Health Connect and Distant Relatives, the initiative aims to provide health screenings for 1,500 individuals, including tests for diabetes, hypertension, STIs, and malaria.
Additionally, young Nigerians are spearheading philanthropic efforts, such as the I Just Gave Back fundraiser, which supports youth and education-focused organizations. Entrepreneurs like Olayinka Lawal, Oladoyin Oladapo, and Ruth Lawansin are making impactful contributions, while activists like Nneka Obiekwe are raising funds for abuse survivors.
Wherever you find yourself this season, consider giving back in any way you can. Whether through donations, volunteering, or supporting local initiatives, there’s always an opportunity to spread goodwill during this festive time.