…celebrates identity, creative innovation, boundary-breaking artistry
The countdown is on for the return of the 8th edition of Lagos Fringe Festival 2025 at Freedom Park, Lagos from 18th to 23rd November, 2025. This year's theme – “Hybrid Identities: Merging Boundaries” – invites artists, filmmakers and creative entrepreneurs to explore the places where culture, technology and innovation intersect.
The theme of this year's festival explores the fusion of cultures, digital transformation and artistic evolution. It challenges creators to question the lines separating art, technology and identity, and to create from a place where these intersections merge seamlessly.
Some of the highlights of this year's festival include: Lagos Fringe Ideas-Exchange.
It is a meeting designed to promote collaboration, learning and exchange of knowledge among creative people. It will feature panel discussions, networking sessions, live showcases and artist talks, allowing participants to share insights, ideas and experiences across a variety of topics.
Topics will explore the growing creative economy, the role of AI in storytelling, sustainable production practices, and the importance of cross-border collaboration in shaping Africa's cultural narrative.
Another highlight is the Creative Tech Workshop series.
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This year's festival highlights the intersection of art and technology through a dedicated Creative Tech workshop series, including: AI and Film Workshop by Olamide Jolaoso.
It will provide an in-depth look at how artificial intelligence is changing storytelling, post-production and distribution in film. Participants will gain practical skills on how AI can enhance creative processes and streamline workflows in the screen industry.
The second is Digital Craft: A 3D Printing Masterclass for Prop, Set, and Costume Design by Film Anatomy.
The practical sessions will introduce creators to the future of film and theater production design. Participants will learn how 3D printing technologies are redefining prop-making, set design and wearable art across the entertainment landscape.
There will also be an AI and Fashion Workshop by AIStudio.Ng
Fashion meets futurism in this cutting-edge season where technology inspires creativity. The workshop will explore AI-assisted design processes, digital fabrics and how machine learning is revolutionizing the global fashion landscape.
Also, a visual arts exhibition. A spectacular collection of works from emerging and established visual artists will take center stage at the Lagos Fringe Visual Arts Exhibition. The exhibition will explore the theme “Hybrid Identities” through painting, mixed media, photography, sculpture and digital installation – showcasing how artists interpret self, culture and technology in a rapidly changing world.
film screening:The Fringe Film Showcase returns with a wide range of short films, documentaries and experimental works from across Africa and the diaspora. This year's screenings will highlight stories that explore identity, innovation and resilience, offering audiences new perspectives and emotional depth. The screening will also provide an opportunity for filmmakers to meet industry peers, discuss their creative journeys and gather audience feedback in an intimate, collaborative environment.
Inaugural Lagos Fringe Film Awards: For the first time in its history, Lagos Fringe by PawStudios Africa will host the Lagos Fringe Film Awards – a landmark event celebrating excellence, innovation and emerging voices in African and diaspora filmmaking.
The awards will honor outstanding achievements in short films, documentaries, feature narratives and experimental cinema, highlighting stories that challenge perspectives and push creative boundaries.
Categories will include: Best Short Film, Best Film with Female Representation, Best African Story, Best Experimental Film, Audience Choice Award, and more. The film awards aim to harness new talent, encourage collaboration and elevate African storytelling to the global stage.
The awards ceremony will take place on the closing night of the festival, featuring performances, film retrospectives and appearances by leading figures from film, media and culture.
The festival experience extends far beyond the performances:
theater performance: A thought-provoking stage play and performance blending culture, innovation and social commentary.
dance battle: An electrifying display of movement and rhythm, celebrating the diverse dance culture of Lagos.
Music and Fringe Nights: Live concerts, DJ sets, spoken word and the festival's signature Y2K Party – bringing together creative people and culture lovers in an atmosphere of connection and joy.
fringe market: A vibrant marketplace for artisans, designers and entrepreneurs showcasing sustainable fashion, handmade crafts, skin care and art collectibles.
