Facts About Gidi Culture Festival
The Gidi Culture Festival, commonly known as Gidi Fest, is a vibrant annual one-day music and arts extravaganza in Lagos, Nigeria. It originated from the vision of Chinedu Okeke and Oriteme Banigo, who sought to satisfy the local youth's craving for live, affordable, and accessible entertainment. This festival transcends music, offering a lively mix of live bands, DJs, and musical performances, complemented by outdoor activities, local vendors, and artisans showcasing their crafts.
Gidi Fest proudly features a diverse lineup of African talent from countries including Nigeria, Ghana, South Africa, Congo, Kenya, and even the UK. The aim? To spotlight African artists and provide them a platform both locally and internationally.
The festival is brought to life by Eclipse Live Production, inspired by the now-defunct Lekki Sound Splash festival. However, Gidi Fest is more than just a good time; it is a safe space for youth empowerment. It’s renowned for its community initiatives like Beach Sweeps and the Dreams Project, which help young people immerse themselves in various creative fields. Eclipse Live Production also organizes other notable events like Nigeria's Palmwine Music Fest and Nativeland.
Since its debut in 2014, Gidi Fest has had numerous successful editions. The inaugural festival featured big names like Ice Prince, Phyno, and Chidinma, and it has only grown from there. Each year, from 2015 to 2019, the festival has attracted large crowds, showcasing a mix of well-known and emerging artists.
Gidi Fest is more than just a festival; it's a celebration of African talent and culture, bringing together music lovers and creatives. It continues to be a cornerstone event in the African music and arts scene, playing a significant role in elevating African artists' presence on the global stage.