The Ake Arts & Book Festival is one of Africa’s leading literary and cultural gatherings, bringing writers, poets, artists, filmmakers and thinkers together to celebrate ideas, stories and the creative life. The 2025 edition explores pressing questions about identity, technology and the future of African storytelling.

When and Where

The 2025 festival takes place in Lagos, Nigeria in November 2025. Exact dates and venues are announced by the organisers—check the official Ake Festival website or social channels for ticketing and schedule updates.

Theme: Reclaiming Narratives in a Brave New World

This year’s central theme examines cultural ownership, digital transformation, migration and the role of writers in shaping narratives for Africa and the diaspora. Expect conversations that interrogate representation, technology and creative freedom.

What to Expect

• Author readings and book chats: Intimate sessions where writers read and discuss their work.
• Panels and debates: Conversations on publishing, AI and the future of African languages in literature.
• Workshops and masterclasses: Practical sessions on craft, editing and performance.
• Art exhibitions and performances: Film screenings, theatre, music and visual arts alongside literary programming.
• Networking opportunities: Meet publishers, editors, agents and fellow writers.
• Book fair and marketplace: Buy books, get signed copies and discover new titles.

Notable Guests and Headliners

Past editions have featured major literary figures from Africa and the diaspora. The 2025 lineup will include a mix of established authors and rising voices—check the festival programme for the confirmed headliners and session times.

How to Prepare

1. Register early: Tickets can sell fast—subscribe to the festival newsletter and follow official channels.
2. Book accommodation early: Choose a central neighbourhood in Lagos to reduce travel time between events.
3. Pack smart: Bring a notebook, business cards, powerbank and a tote for books.
4. Plan your schedule: Select panels and workshops in advance to avoid clashes.
5. Network intentionally: Prepare a short pitch about your work and follow up with new contacts after the festival.

Why Ake Festival Matters

Ake is more than a gathering; it is a platform that amplifies African voices and creates connections across the continent and diaspora. It pushes conversations about representation and the future of African literature while giving readers and writers a vibrant space to meet.

Practical Tips for First-Timers

• Arrive early for popular sessions to secure seating.
• Download the festival programme or save sessions to your calendar.
• Carry cash and a local transport card for quick movement around the city.
• Follow festival hashtags on social media to join live conversations and find pop-up events.

Further Reading and Resources

Keep an eye on the official Ake Festival site, major Nigerian book blogs and local media for interviews, lineups and ticket updates. After the festival, look for session recordings and write-ups that capture key conversations.

Call to Action

If you’re attending Ake Festival 2025 or plan to, subscribe to our newsletter for a curated festival guide, recommended sessions and networking tips tailored for writers and book lovers.