By Yemisi Suleiman

This December, the holidays are getting a delicious upgrade as, Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc (GTCO Plc) is set to host first-ever Holiday Edition of its globally celebrated GTCO Food & Drink Festival, billed to light up Lagos on December 20 and 21, 2025, at the GT Centre, Oniru.

For the first time, Africa’s largest food and beverage festival is stepping fully into the festive season, serving up a vibrant mix of culinary delights, family-friendly fun, and SME empowerment, all wrapped in holiday cheer.

Designed as an exciting expansion of the Festival’s international reputation, the Holiday Edition celebrates the richness of African cuisine while creating unforgettable end-of-year moments for families and opening up major income opportunities for food-focused Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs).

Speaking at a press conference in Lagos, GTCO Plc revealed that this December edition marks a deliberate shift in experience. Unlike previous festivals, the Holiday Edition will not feature chef masterclasses.

Instead, it will spotlight immersive holiday attractions, an expanded marketplace, and entertainment for all ages, making it a true festive destination.

According to Segun Agbaje, Group Chief Executive Officer of GTCO Plc, the new edition perfectly reflects the Group’s values and vision.
“The GTCO Food & Drink Festival is a powerful platform that aligns with our mission to fuel enterprise, promote African creativity, and connect communities through meaningful lifestyle experiences.

The Holiday Edition gives us an exciting opportunity to celebrate the festive season while supporting thousands of food entrepreneurs who form the backbone of our economy,” he said.

Record SME Participation
True to its long-standing commitment to local businesses, GTCO is maintaining its free vendor participation model, ensuring entrepreneurs can maximize visibility and sales during the high-demand festive period.

For the Holiday Edition:
Over 4,000 applications were received
213 food SMEs were selected—nearly double the number from the last edition
All selected vendors are Nigerian-owned, offering a wide range of diverse and affordable food options
This surge in participation reinforces the Festival’s growing influence as a major catalyst for SME growth and a platform that champions inclusive economic development.

New Holiday Features to Look Forward To
The 2025 Holiday Edition introduces fresh, festive attractions designed to delight visitors:

Christmas Village: A charming holiday marketplace featuring handcrafted gifts, seasonal treats, artisanal products, and themed entertainment.

Large Children’s Play Zone: A lively, safe space packed with games, immersive activities, and holiday fun for young families.

Street Food Hub: A buzzing celebration of iconic Nigerian street foods, showcasing the country’s rich culinary diversity.
Live Entertainment: High-energy DJ sets from two top-tier Nigerian entertainers, keeping the atmosphere upbeat across both days.

Deepening Community Impact
GTCO noted that the Holiday Edition aligns strongly with its broader CSR objectives, particularly in community support, SME expansion, and the promotion of Nigeria’s creative and culinary industries. By tapping into the festive season, the Group aims to deepen family engagement, boost local businesses, and further cement its reputation for curating authentic African lifestyle experiences with global appeal.

Best of all, the GTCO Food & Drink Festival, Holiday Edition is free and open to the public, underscoring GTCO’s belief that creativity, community, and world-class experiences should be accessible to everyone.
This December, Lagos isn’t just celebrating the holidays, it’s tasting them.