Lagos in December is built for adults: late concerts, loud parties and busy roads. With children, it can still be a wonderful Christmas, if you plan the days around them. Here are the best family-friendly things to do in Lagos this Christmas, and how to keep everyone happy in the heat and the traffic.
Outdoors and nature
Lekki Conservation Centre
The canopy walkway, strung high over the forest, is the most exciting thing in Lagos for most children. Look out for monkeys and birds on the boardwalks. Go at opening time, before the heat and the crowds. Very young children may need to be carried on parts of the walkway.
LUFASI Nature Park
LUFASI offers shaded trails, open space and room to run, with picnic spots for a slow morning. It is ideal for under-sevens and a calm reset after a late family night.
Beach days
Lagos beaches are busy in December. Choose a managed beach club with shade, toilets and lifeguards rather than an open public beach. Keep children close in the water, because Atlantic currents are strong.
Indoor fun and culture
Upbeat Recreation Centre
Upbeat offers high-energy indoor activities in Lekki. It is a good answer to "I'm bored" on a hot afternoon, especially for older children and groups of cousins.
Nike Art Gallery
Five floors of colour, textiles and sculpture. Give each child a small budget to choose one piece of Nigerian art or adire cloth to take home.
John Randle Centre for Yoruba Culture and History
This modern, visual museum works well for children aged seven and up. It is a gentle way to connect them with Yoruba language, stories and heritage.
Christmas itself
- Christmas services: many churches hold carol services and family services through December. Services can be very full, so arrive early.
- Christmas Day: expect quieter roads in the morning and busy restaurants later. Book any Christmas lunch well ahead.
- Boxing Day and after: the city's busiest party week begins. It is a good time for a quieter nature day with the children.
Practical tips for families
- Sunscreen, hats and refillable water bottles every day. December heat and harmattan dust are tiring for children.
- A car seat, if your child needs one. Ask your driver or tour company in advance.
- Ear defenders for small children if you are going anywhere near a concert or street party.
- Snacks for the car. Traffic can turn a 30-minute drive into two hours.
- A plan for 16 January 2027, election day, if you are staying into the new year.
A family day, done for you
We build family days around your children's ages: the pace, the stops, the meals and the rest breaks. Try our Nature & Wellness or Adventure experiences, or build your own À la carte day. For the wider December picture, visit our Detty December 2026 hub.
Frequently asked questions
What can children do in Lagos in December?
Try the canopy walkway at Lekki Conservation Centre, trails at LUFASI Nature Park, indoor activities at Upbeat Recreation Centre, Nike Art Gallery, and a managed beach club with lifeguards.
Is Lagos safe for children during Detty December?
Most family visits are trouble-free. Plan morning outings, use a trusted driver, keep children close in crowds and on beaches, and avoid concerts and street parties with small children.
What is the best time of day for family outings in Lagos?
Mornings. Go at opening time to avoid the heat, the crowds and the worst of the traffic, then rest in the afternoon.
Plan your December with Mylocal Tours
Tell us your dates, your group and what you love. We will curate the days, handle the driving, and send you a personal quote.