For seven years and counting, the Lagos Fringe Festival has been more than a stage for artists; it has been a movement for creativity, entrepreneurship, and cultural exchange. This November, the festival returns with an even richer celebration of local talent and taste, featuring the Fringe Market and an exciting new addition, the Eat, Drink & Fringe Experience, both taking place at Freedom Park, Lagos, from November 22–23, 2025
Since its inception, the Lagos Fringe Market has become one of the city’s most anticipated creative showcases. Over the past seven years, it has supported more than 250 micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), giving artisans, designers, and food vendors a platform to grow their businesses and reach wider audiences. From fashion and home décor to art, crafts, and gourmet products, the market has consistently amplified the creative economy by spotlighting homegrown brands that blend heritage with innovation.
This year’s edition promises to be the most dynamic yet. The market will bring together a fresh wave of local entrepreneurs, independent creators, and cultural changemakers who represent the pulse of modern Lagos. Visitors can expect a curated mix of handcrafted goods, sustainable fashion, wellness products, visual art, and streetwear, all created by passionate Nigerian makers.“The Fringe Market has always been about access and empowerment,” said Kenneth Uphopho, festival director, Lagos Fringe. “We have seen small vendors grow into thriving brands because they had a space to share their creativity with real audiences. That’s what the Fringe is about: giving people the platform and confidence to shine.”
Adding even more flavor to this year’s festivities is the brand-new Eat, Drink & Fringe Experience, a celebration of Lagos’ world-famous food culture. Over two delicious days, the event will bring together chefs, mixologists, and street food innovators to showcase the diversity of Nigeria’s culinary scene from smoky suya and small chops to gourmet fusion dishes and refreshing mocktails
Food lovers will get to sample the city’s boldest flavors, discover new food brands, and enjoy live music, art, and pop-up performances that blend taste with creativity. It’s more than just a food fair; it’s a full experience designed to celebrate Lagos as Africa’s culinary and cultural capital.“Eat, Drink & Fringe is our way of expanding what the festival feels like,” said Uphopho. “We wanted to create a space where people can eat, laugh, dance, and connect. Art isn’t only on stage; it’s in the food, the design, the music, and the people. This new experience captures all of that.”Visitors to the Fringe Market and Eat, Drink & Fringe can expect an immersive atmosphere where creativity meets community. The market will feature live DJs, open mic sessions, and surprise performances throughout the day, turning Freedom Park into a lively crossroads of art, taste, and entertainment
