Lagos Fringe Festival, one of the largest outdoor multidisciplinary arts festivals in West Africa, has announced its 8th edition, scheduled to run from November 18-23, 2025, under the theme “Hybrid Identities: Merging Boundaries.”
The week-long festival, which has become a cornerstone cultural event in Africa’s entertainment capital, will explore the increasing complexity of human identities in a world where cultural boundaries continue to blur. Festival organisers say the 2025 program will foster conversations around identity politics, cultural fusion, broader crossings, and digital identities.
Lagos Fringe Festival Executive Director Kenneth Uphopho, who founded the event in 2018, continues his mission of creating platforms that showcase diverse artistic expressions while supporting talent development. The festival has established itself as one of the vibrant multidisciplinary arts gatherings on the African continent.
The 2025 program will feature an extensive lineup of performance art shows, including thought-provoking plays addressing social issues alongside comedic performances. Theatrical exhibitions will span traditional, experimental, and contemporary styles across multiple genres.
A key attraction will be the arts and craft market described by organisers as “a treasure trove of unique and handcrafted items.” The market will offer both traditional Nigerian clothing and accessories alongside contemporary art pieces, providing local artisans and businesses valuable opportunities to showcase their creations to a diverse audience.
Evening events will feature music performances, spoken word sessions, and panel discussions examining the state of the arts in Nigeria. These night gatherings will also serve as networking opportunities with industry professionals, including producers, directors, and talent scouts in attendance.
While specific activities remain undisclosed, the festival’s call for short film submissions continues until June 13, indicating the event will maintain its commitment to showcasing emerging filmmakers alongside established artists.
The Lagos Fringe Festival has maintained its founding focus on supporting artistic growth through developmental workshops, panel discussions, and networking opportunities that connect domestic and international creative professionals. The festival emphasises creative entrepreneurship and career development, positioning itself as a catalyst for artistic evolution in the region.
The 2025 edition promises to welcome artists, performers, and audiences from Lagos and beyond to what organisers describe as “an exhilarating creative adventure” that celebrates the heterogeneous and eclectic nature of human existence.
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