Lagos Sets Sights on New World Record With 96-Hour DJ Marathon
Lagos is gearing up to host what organisers call Africa’s biggest and longest beach festival — a 96-hour non-stop DJ Marathon featuring 100 DJs from December 29, 2025, to January 2, 2026.
The four-day, round-the-clock music festival aims to break the current world record for the longest continuous DJ performance, which stands at 55 hours.
Buchi Henry Mbagwu, CEO of Afroxela and convener of the event, said the idea came from international curiosity around Lagos’ famous “Detty December.”
He explained that during an event in Portugal, attendees from several European countries said they wanted to experience Lagos’ nightlife, which sparked the idea for the marathon.
According to Mbagwu, the goal is to capture the true spirit of Lagos nightlife and celebrate the DJs who make parties come alive.
“DJs are always the ones who set the mood at weddings, concerts, and events. We wanted a festival that puts them at the centre,” he said.
The event will feature a seamless relay where each DJ plays for one hour before handing over to the next. The music won’t stop for the entire 96 hours.
The marathon will also run through New Year’s Eve into the New Year, a strategic choice meant to tap into global excitement around end-of-year celebrations.
Mbagwu says the timing is intentional:
“By December 27, people are relaxing after Christmas and waiting for New Year’s Eve. Everywhere in the world — Lagos, Dubai, New York — people want the biggest party. That’s why we chose this period.”