Lagos is set to host the Drum Queens Festival 2026, a celebration of female drummers, African percussion and cultural expression, on Sunday, August 23.
The festival is scheduled to take place at Breath of Life, Obanikoro, Lagos, at 3:00 pm, bringing together female percussionists, music lovers and cultural enthusiasts for an afternoon dedicated to rhythm and live performance.
Organised by Topsticks, the event is built around the concept of bringing female drummers together on one stage to celebrate their talent and highlight the significance of percussion in African music and cultural expression.
One of the performers announced for the festival is Yemmysticks, who is expected to deliver a live performance during the event.
Drumming has historically played an important role in African societies, serving as a form of entertainment, communication, storytelling and accompaniment during ceremonies and celebrations. In Nigeria, traditional percussion remains an important part of the country’s diverse cultural heritage.
Beyond its entertainment value, the festival is also expected to spotlight the growing participation of women in music and performance, particularly in an area that has traditionally been dominated by men.
By placing female drummers at the centre of the event, Drum Queens Festival provides a platform for performers to showcase their creativity and skills while potentially inspiring younger women to explore percussion and other areas of the creative industry.
As preparations continue, the festival is expected to combine live percussion, performance and cultural celebration, while drawing attention to women contributing to the preservation and evolution of African musical traditions.
For Lagos residents and lovers of live music and culture, Drum Queens Festival 2026 promises an opportunity to experience the energy of live African percussion while celebrating the women making their mark in the field.