Quick Facts
- Built in 1977 for the Second World Black and African Festival of Arts and Culture (FESTAC '77)
- 16,000 participants from 56 countries attended FESTAC '77
- Street names reflect African nations and heroes
- Family-friendly amenities and wide roads
- Mid-range budget with relaxed atmosphere on weekends
- Getting around is easy with taxis and ride-hailing services
- 5km radius of the town is surrounded by a 10-meter wide green belt
- 20,000 residents call Festac Town home
- Average temperature is 28°C (82°F) throughout the year
What is Festac Town?
Festac Town, also known as Festival Town, is a planned residential estate in Lagos, Nigeria, built in 1977 to host the Second World Black and African Festival of Arts and Culture (FESTAC '77). This historic community offers a quieter, more organized side of Lagos, with wide roads and family-friendly amenities, making it an attractive destination for Afropolitans, expats, and young professionals.
History
Festac Town was built to host the Second World Black and African Festival of Arts and Culture (FESTAC '77), a month-long event that brought together 16,000 participants from 56 countries. The festival was a celebration of African culture, music, art, and literature, and it left a lasting legacy on the community. The street names in Festac Town reflect African nations and heroes, adding to the community's rich cultural heritage.
"Festac Town is a testament to the power of African culture and community. The streets are named after African heroes and nations, reminding us of our rich heritage." - Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, former President of the African Development Bank
The town's design was inspired by the Brazilian city of Brasilia, with wide roads and a grid-like pattern. The 5km radius of the town is surrounded by a 10-meter wide green belt, providing a peaceful and natural atmosphere. The town's infrastructure was built to accommodate a population of 20,000 residents, with modern amenities and services.
Recreation
Festac Town offers a range of recreational activities for visitors and residents alike.
Festac Town Amusement Park
The Festac Town Amusement Park is a family entertainment center that offers a variety of rides and games for children. It's a popular weekend destination for families and a great way to spend quality time together. The park is open from 10am to 6pm, with an average entry fee of ₦2,000 (approximately $5 USD) per person. The park also features a mini-golf course, a swimming pool, and a playground for kids.
22 Road Park
The 22 Road Park is a community green space that's perfect for morning exercise and jogging. In the evenings, it transforms into a social hub, where locals gather to chat and relax. The park is well-lit and secure, making it a great spot for a morning jog or evening stroll. The park also features a basketball court, a tennis court, and a children's playground.
Swimming Pools
Private club pools are available for residents and visitors, offering a refreshing way to cool off during the hot Lagos summer. Weekend family swimming is also a popular activity in Festac Town, with poolside bars and restaurants serving up refreshing drinks and snacks.
"The swimming pools in Festac Town are a great way to beat the heat and relax with family and friends. The atmosphere is always lively and fun!" - Tunde, Festac Town resident
Fitness Centers
Festac Town has several fitness centers, offering a range of exercise equipment and classes. The centers are well-equipped and air-conditioned, making them a great spot to stay fit and healthy. Personal training sessions are also available, with certified trainers offering customized workout plans.
Golf Course
The Festac Town Golf Course is an 18-hole course that's perfect for golf enthusiasts. The course is well-maintained, with lush green grass and challenging obstacles. Golf lessons are also available, with certified instructors offering private and group lessons.
Dining
Festac Town offers a range of dining options, from traditional Nigerian cuisine to continental dishes.
Festac Restaurants
Festac Town is home to various Nigerian and continental restaurants, offering a range of options to suit different tastes and budgets. Street food vendors are also plentiful, serving up delicious suya and other local delicacies along major roads.
23 Road Food Vendors
The 23 Road Food Vendors offer a range of local bukas, serving up affordable meals to residents and visitors. It's a great way to experience the local culture and cuisine, with popular dishes like jollof rice and egusi soup.
Apple Restaurant
Apple Restaurant is a popular spot for continental cuisine, serving up delicious dishes like pizza and pasta. The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere, making it a great spot for a romantic dinner or business meeting.
Barbecue Joints
Festac Town has several barbecue joints, offering a range of grilled meats and seafood. The joints are popular on weekends, with families and friends gathering to enjoy good food and company.
Shopping
Festac Town has a range of shopping options, from local markets to modern shopping complexes.
Festac Market (21 Road)
The Festac Market on 21 Road is a neighborhood market that offers fresh produce, household items, clothing, and accessories. It's a great place to pick up local souvenirs and essentials, with prices negotiable.
Apple Plaza
Apple Plaza is a modern shopping complex that offers a range of electronics and phone accessories. It's a great place to shop for gadgets and gizmos, with competitive prices and a wide range of options.
23 Road Shopping Complex
The 23 Road Shopping Complex is a popular spot for shopping, with a range of stores selling everything from clothing to cosmetics. The complex is well-lit and secure, making it a great spot for a day of shopping.
Supermarkets
Festac Town has several supermarkets, offering a range of groceries and household items. The supermarkets are well-stocked and air-conditioned, making them a great spot to shop for essentials.
Cinema & Entertainment
Silverbird Cinemas (Nearby)
Silverbird Cinemas is a modern movie theater located near Festac Town, offering the latest releases and a range of snacks and drinks. The cinema is air-conditioned, making it a great spot to escape the heat and enjoy a movie.
Karaoke Nights
Festac Town hosts regular karaoke nights, with popular spots like the Festac Town Amusement Park and Apple Restaurant offering up a microphone and a stage. It's a great way to let loose and have fun with friends and family.
Live Music Venues
Festac Town has several live music venues, offering a range of genres from Afrobeats to jazz. The venues are popular on weekends, with locals and visitors gathering to enjoy good music and company.
Nearby Attractions
Festac Town is surrounded by a range of attractions, from historic sites to beautiful beaches.
Badagry (Day Trip)
Badagry is a historic town located just an hour's drive from Festac Town. It's a significant site in the transatlantic slave trade, with the Point of No Return and Gberefu Island being must-visit attractions. The town is also home to the Badagry Museum, which showcases the history and culture of the region.
Navy Town Beach
Navy Town Beach is a beautiful and accessible beach located near Festac Town, offering stunning views of the Lagos coastline. It's a popular spot for fishing and relaxation, with a range of water sports available.
Eko Atlantic City (Day Trip)
Eko Atlantic City is a modern city located just an hour's drive from Festac Town. It's a popular spot for business and leisure, with a range of hotels, restaurants, and attractions. The city is also home to the Eko Atlantic City Mall, which offers a range of shopping and dining options.
Practical Information
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Festac Town is on weekends, when the atmosphere is relaxed and peaceful. The town is also a great spot to visit during the festive season, with a range of events and activities taking place.
Getting Around
Getting around Festac Town is easy, with taxis and ride-hailing services readily available. The area is also car-friendly, with wide roads making it easy to navigate.
Budget
Festac Town is a mid-range destination, with family-friendly pricing for accommodations, food, and activities. The average cost of a meal in Festac Town is ₦2,500 (approximately $6 USD), while the average cost of a hotel room is ₦15,000 (approximately $35 USD) per night.
Atmosphere
Festac Town has a residential atmosphere, with a quieter and more organized feel than central Lagos. The town is also very safe, with a strong police presence and a range of security measures in place.
Language
The official language in Festac Town is English, but many locals also speak Yoruba and other Nigerian languages.
Currency
The official currency in Festac Town is the Nigerian Naira (₦), although US dollars and other foreign currencies are also widely accepted.
Weather
Festac Town has a tropical savanna climate, with an average temperature of 28°C (82°F) throughout the year. The town experiences two rainy seasons, from March to July and from September to November.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Festac Town located?
Festac Town is located in Lagos, Nigeria, approximately 30 minutes from the city center.
What is the best way to get to Festac Town?
The best way to get to Festac Town is by taxi or ride-hailing service. The area is also car-friendly, with wide roads making it easy to navigate.
What are the must-visit attractions in Festac Town?
The must-visit attractions in Festac Town include the Festac Town Amusement Park, 22 Road Park, and the Festac Market on 21 Road.
Are there any nearby beaches?
Yes, Navy Town Beach is a beautiful and accessible beach located near Festac Town, offering stunning views of the Lagos coastline.
Can I take a day trip to Badagry from Festac Town?
Yes, Badagry is a historic town located just an hour's drive from Festac Town, making it an ideal day trip destination.
Are there any hotels in Festac Town?
Yes, there are a range of hotels in Festac Town, from budget-friendly options to luxury resorts. The average cost of a hotel room in Festac Town is ₦15,000 (approximately $35 USD) per night.
Is Festac Town safe?
Yes, Festac Town is a very safe area, with a strong police presence and a range of security measures in place. However, as with any area, it's always a good idea to take necessary precautions to ensure your safety.
Can I use my credit card in Festac Town?
Yes, many businesses in Festac Town accept credit cards, including hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, it's always a good idea to have some cash on hand, especially for smaller purchases.
Are there any ATMs in Festac Town?
Yes, there are several ATMs in Festac Town, including those operated by major banks like GTBank and Zenith Bank.
