Lagos set to break world record with 96-Hour DJ marathon festival

Lagos is gearing up to host Africa’s biggest beach festival as 100 DJs prepare to take part in a 96-hour non-stop DJ Marathon, slated for December 29, 2025, to January 2, 2026.

The marathon aims to break the current world record of 55 hours for continuous DJ performance.

Speaking ahead of the festival, Buchi Henry Mbagwu, CEO of Afroxela and the event convener, said the idea was inspired by the global fascination with Lagos’ famous “Detty December” nightlife.

“Visitors from across Europe wanted to experience why Lagos never stops partying.

“That was the lightbulb moment,” he explained.

The marathon will feature 100 DJs performing in hourly relays across three connected beach houses—Kima, Wave, and Athena—combined into a single festival arena.

Mbagwu described the event as a multisensory celebration of music, culture, and endurance, spanning genres like Afrobeats, Amapiano, Afro House, R&B, and hip-hop, alongside fitness sessions, yoga, gospel mornings, food, and fashion exhibitions.

While the live audience is expected to number around 1,000, the festival will be livestreamed globally to over 100 countries, leveraging time zones to maximise reach.

“Your afternoon set in Lagos is someone’s midnight in Atlanta or Shanghai,” Mbagwu noted.

Confirmed performers include DJ Bombastic, Jimmy Jatt, DJ Neptune, and DJ Humility, alongside rising talents selected through the DJ Marathon Challenge.

Organisers also emphasised gender inclusion, featuring female DJs such as DJ Bella, who previously attempted a 250-hour marathon performance.

“This festival is about showcasing Lagos and African creativity to the world.

“For 96 hours, there will be no pause—just energy, music, and the Lagos spirit,” Mbagwu said.

Preparations are in full swing to ensure a safe, seamless, and unforgettable New Year experience for local and international audiences.