December in Nigeria is not just a month of celebration — it’s a season of spending, travel, and booming business opportunities. From weddings and concerts to church programs, markets, and family parties, money moves faster than any other time of the year.
Markets become busier, transport fares shoot up, and Nigerians in the diaspora return home in style — ready to enjoy the festive season and spend freely. This period, often called the “December rush,” is when everyone wants to look good, eat well, celebrate with loved ones, and create lasting memories.
On Naijaonlinebiz.com, we’ve covered several lucrative business ideas and opportunities designed to help Nigerians build wealth and succeed. However, we encourage our readers and fellow publishers to always credit and link back to Naijaonlinebiz.com when referencing our original work. Our content is developed through research and experience to empower entrepreneurs across Nigeria — not for duplication without acknowledgment.
For smart entrepreneurs, December is the best time to take advantage of the high demand and turn the festive mood into profit. Whether you’re a student, graduate, or working-class individual, there are several lucrative December business ideas you can start with little or moderate capital and earn handsomely before the year ends.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through 30 profitable December business ideas in Nigeria for the festive season — covering food, fashion, gifts, transport, and online services that thrive during this time of the year. Also, in our recent article, we shared the step-by-step guide on how to start a business in Nigeria — a perfect read if you’re planning to launch a profitable venture next year.
Why You Should Start a Business This December
December gives you a short but powerful window to make good money. People spend more in a few weeks than they do in several months — buying clothes, food, gifts, and paying for services they wouldn’t normally need. The festive mood makes everyone more generous, and businesses that position themselves early often enjoy massive sales.
So, instead of watching others cash out this festive season, this is your chance to launch something small that can grow into a steady income stream. Even with limited capital, you can tap into the December rush and end the year with profit in your pocket.
Food & Drinks Business Ideas That Boom in December
When it comes to making money in December, food and drinks always top the list. Nigerians love to eat, celebrate, and entertain guests — and no event is complete without good food and something to drink. From weddings to family parties and end-of-year celebrations, there’s always a high demand for catering, snacks, and beverages.
Here are some profitable food and drinks business ideas you can start this festive season:
Small Chops & Catering Business
No party in Nigeria is complete without small chops — spring rolls, samosas, puff-puff, grilled meat, and peppered snails. These bite-sized delights are the highlight of every event, and people are willing to pay well for them.
If you can cook or have catering skills, December is your time to shine. You can start small by catering for house parties, weddings, church programs, or office end-of-year events. As your customer base grows, expand into full catering — providing complete meals, buffet setups, and party platters.
To show you how profitable it can be, one church in Southeast Nigeria reportedly spends almost ₦1 million every year just on small chops for their Carol of Nine Lessons. That’s just one event — imagine how much small chops vendors make from multiple programs and parties throughout December.
To stand out, focus on taste, hygiene, and presentation. Neatly packaged trays with personalized stickers can make your small chops look premium and attract repeat customers.
You have to start advertising early through WhatsApp status, Instagram, or flyers in your area. Offer small sample plates to friends and neighbours to spread the word before the rush begins.
Barbecue & Grilled Fish Spot
Outdoor hangouts and night gatherings are extremely popular during the festive period. Setting up a simple barbecue or grilled fish spot in a busy area can bring daily profits throughout December. Nigerians love suya, asun, grilled chicken, and fish — especially when served hot with chilled drinks and good music.
You don’t need a fancy setup to begin. With a grill, charcoal, spices, and a small space near a bar, event center, or street corner, you can attract plenty of customers. The profit margin is high because people are willing to pay more during the festive rush.
You can even add side dishes like plantain, salad, or chips to increase your earnings. As your spot grows, consider partnering with drink distributors or delivery apps to reach more people.
You’ll need a grill, charcoal, table setup, and stock. Pair it with a small drink stand or POS service to double your income.
Homemade Drinks & Smoothies Sales
December weather can get quite hot, and with all the movement, people are constantly in need of something cool and refreshing. That’s why drinks like zobo, chapman, tiger nut milk, smoothies, and fruit juices sell like wildfire during the festive period.
If you know how to prepare them hygienically, this business can be a goldmine. You can package them in branded bottles or disposable cups and sell at markets, car parks, or outdoor events. You can also supply to offices, parties, and restaurants.
Make sure your drinks are chilled, attractive, and well-flavored. Adding a little branding — like labels with your business name and contact — can help you get repeat orders even after the festive season.
Keep everything clean and well-packaged. Presentation matters — people often buy with their eyes first during Christmas.
Food Delivery Services
In December, most families are busy with shopping, guests, and events, leaving little time to cook. That’s where food delivery comes in. Offering home-cooked meals delivered right to customers’ doors can bring in consistent income throughout the month.
You can focus on popular dishes like jollof rice, fried rice, grilled chicken, egusi soup, and stew. Create a simple menu, share it on WhatsApp, and take orders through calls or messages. Partner with a bike rider or use delivery services like Gokada or Bolt Food to reach customers faster.
The beauty of this business is flexibility — you can cook from home and grow at your own pace. Once customers trust your taste and service, many will keep ordering beyond the festive season.
Target offices, families, and bachelors — they are the biggest clients during the December rush.
Pastries & Snacks Business
Pastries like meat pie, doughnuts, chin-chin, puff-puff, and cupcakes are hot sellers during Christmas. Everyone wants something light to snack on while traveling, shopping, or attending events. You can start baking from home and supply to supermarkets, schools, or individuals hosting parties.
Packaging is key — attractive transparent containers or festive-themed boxes make your snacks look premium and gift-worthy. You can even make special Christmas-themed pastries or combo boxes with chin-chin, zobo, and cupcakes as mini gift packs.
If you already have baking skills, December is the perfect time to promote your brand and attract new customers for the New Year.
Partner with event planners or vendors to get bulk orders for weddings and office parties.
Fashion & Clothing Business Ideas That Thrive in December
If there’s one thing Nigerians love about December, it’s looking good. From weddings and concerts to Christmas parties and family photoshoots, everyone wants to dress their best. The “December look” is serious business — and that means more opportunities for those in the fashion and beauty industry.
Here are some fashion and clothing business that make serious profit during the festive season:
Christmas Outfit Sales
December is when many Nigerians shop for new clothes — not just for themselves, but also for their children and loved ones. Families want matching Christmas outfits, stylish Ankara designs, lace materials, kaftans, and native attires for outings and events.
If you have access to good suppliers or can source trendy wears from local markets or online wholesalers, you can make huge profits reselling. You don’t even need a physical shop — many successful vendors sell directly through WhatsApp, Instagram, or Facebook.
Stock up early before prices go up in mid-December. Showcase your clothes with clear pictures, festive captions, and bundle offers like “Buy 2, get 1 free” or family discount packages.
Shoe & Bag Sales
New clothes deserve matching shoes and bags — and Nigerians don’t mind spending extra for a complete festive look. You can sell both men’s and women’s footwear: sandals, heels, sneakers, and slippers, as well as handbags, purses, and belts.
Start by sourcing trendy, affordable options from major markets like Balogun (Lagos), Ariaria (Aba), or even online wholesalers on Jumia or Alibaba. Promote them aggressively on social media using videos, WhatsApp status updates, and seasonal deals.
You can start small by reselling online without keeping large stock. Add delivery options and gift wrapping — many people buy shoes and bags as presents in December.
Hair, Makeup & Beauty Services
December events mean one thing: glam time! Makeup artists, hairstylists, nail technicians, and barbers experience a major boom during this period. Brides, party guests, and even men want to look their best for pictures, weddings, and end-of-year outings.
If you’re skilled in any beauty service — makeup, gele tying, wig making, or barbing — you can make a lot of money offering home or on-the-go services. You can also create festive beauty packages, like “Christmas Glam Combo” (hair, makeup, and nails at a discount).
Take clear before-and-after photos of your clients and post them online. Good visuals attract more bookings than adverts alone.
Tailoring & Fashion Design Services
Tailors and fashion designers often get overwhelmed with orders in December — because everyone wants new outfits for the festive season. From Asoebi dresses to native attires and family wears, the demand is always high.
If you already sew, start collecting orders early and set deadlines to avoid last-minute rush jobs. You can also specialize in ready-to-wear pieces — simple gowns, shirts, and kaftans — that customers can buy instantly without waiting for custom sewing.
Promote your work on social media using videos and customer testimonials. Also, consider collaborating with fabric sellers or stylists for referrals — teamwork pays off during the festive rush.
Tailoring and fashion services in December aren’t just about selling clothes — it’s about helping people feel confident, stylish, and festive. If you can combine creativity, good timing, and smart marketing, you’ll definitely cash out before the year ends.
Gifts & Decoration Business Ideas for the Festive Season
December is the month of giving, celebration, and beautiful decorations. From homes and offices to churches and event halls, everyone wants their environment to look bright and festive. And with people exchanging gifts almost every week, this is one of the most profitable business areas to explore.
Here are some gift and decoration business ideas that thrive during the Christmas and New Year season:
Gift Hampers & Souvenir Packages
Nothing says “Merry Christmas” better than a well-arranged hamper. Companies, churches, families, and individuals love giving out hampers filled with food items, drinks, and gifts to appreciate clients or loved ones.
You can start by packaging items like wine, chin-chin, sweets, noodles, and small groceries in beautiful baskets or boxes. Add a personal touch — greeting cards, ribbons, and name tags make a big difference.
Depending on how big or small your hampers are. Advertise early on social media and offer delivery options. You can even create corporate hamper packages for offices or bulk buyers.
Christmas Decoration Services
From homes to offices, malls, and churches, everyone wants that festive sparkle — but not everyone has the time or skill to decorate. That’s where you come in.
You can start a Christmas decoration business offering services like setting up Christmas trees, hanging lights, arranging balloons, or decorating event venues. You don’t need to be an expert decorator — with creativity and basic materials, you can make spaces come alive.
Take pictures of your work and share them on WhatsApp or Instagram. Many people hire decorators based on visuals alone.
Customized Gift Items
Customized gifts are always in high demand during December — mugs, T-shirts, throw pillows, calendars, key holders, and frames with names or photos. They’re popular for end-of-year appreciation gifts, company souvenirs, and church programs.
You can either produce them yourself (if you have the printing tools) or partner with a local print shop. What matters is presentation and timely delivery.
Focus on personalization — offer options like “Couples Christmas Mugs” or “Family Name Pillows.” People love items that feel special and personal.
Event Decoration & Rentals
End-of-year parties, weddings, church programs, and birthdays fill the December calendar. Event decorators and rental businesses (chairs, canopies, tables, lighting, etc.) are always busy.
If you already have event materials, this is your time to earn more. Even if you’re new, you can start small — rent out items like chairs, table covers, artificial flowers, or sound systems. Partner with caterers, DJs, and MCs to get steady referrals.
Offer package deals (e.g., “Decoration + Chairs + Lights”) for clients who want convenience. It’s a win-win for both sides.
December is truly a season for creativity and color — and if you can bring joy through thoughtful gifts or beautiful decorations, your bank account will thank you.
Transport & Travel Business Ideas That Boom in December
The December period in Nigeria is known for massive movement — people travel from cities to villages, from abroad to Nigeria, and from one event to another. With the rush to attend weddings, concerts, church programs, and family gatherings, transportation and travel-related businesses always experience a sharp rise in demand.
Here are some profitable transport and logistics business ideas you can explore this festive season:
Inter-State Transport Business
During December, bus parks are overcrowded, and transport fares double or even triple. If you have a vehicle — whether a car, bus, or even a minivan — you can cash in by offering transport services between major cities and towns.
You can register with a popular transport company or operate independently by carrying passengers from your area. Just ensure your vehicle is in good condition and all your papers are complete.
I advise you focus on popular routes like Lagos–East, Abuja–North, or Ibadan–East. Demand is highest around mid to late December.
Car Hire & Chauffeur Services
Many returnees and visitors prefer renting a private car with a driver rather than using public transport. You can start a car hire service using your car or partner with others who have idle vehicles.
Offer both self-drive and chauffeur options for weddings, airport pickups, and VIP movements. Social media, hotels, and airports are great places to advertise.
One way to get repeat customers on car hire and chauffeur service is to maintain a clean car, polite driver, and flexible pricing.
Logistics & Delivery Services
As online sales and food orders increase in December, so does the need for delivery riders. If you have a motorcycle or can partner with one, you can make good money running errands, delivering food, or transporting small parcels.
This business works especially well in busy cities like Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, and Enugu. Many small businesses are willing to pay per delivery rather than own their own rider.
You have to try and offer “same-day delivery” — people love quick, reliable service during the festive rush.
Travel & Tour Packages
With many Nigerians looking to unwind during Christmas, a local travel and tour business can be very profitable. You can organize affordable trips to destinations like Obudu, Erin Ijesha Waterfall, Olumo Rock, or even Dubai for those who can afford it.
You don’t need to own buses or hotels — simply partner with transport companies and travel agencies to create exciting group tour packages.
I’ll suggest you offer “couples holiday” or “family adventure” packages. You can promote them via social media or WhatsApp communities.
December travel is big business — and if you plan ahead, even a small setup can yield significant profit before the year ends.
Entertainment & Event-Based Business Ideas for December
December in Nigeria is never quiet — it’s a month packed with weddings, concerts, carnivals, and countless social events. From “Detty December” parties in Lagos to cultural festivals across the country, people are always looking for ways to celebrate, relax, and have fun.
This makes entertainment and event-based ventures some of the most lucrative December business ideas you can start, even with small capital.
Event Planning & Coordination
If you’re organized and good at multitasking, event planning is a goldmine in December. There’s always a wedding, birthday, or end-of-year party happening somewhere. Many people prefer to hire planners to handle logistics — decorations, catering, sound, and seating.
You can start small by planning events for friends, family, or churches, then grow with referrals.
It is important you build a network of caterers, decorators, and DJs. This way, you can offer complete packages and earn commissions from each service provider.
DJ & Music Entertainment Services
Music is the heartbeat of every Nigerian party. DJs are in hot demand for weddings, house parties, carnivals, and corporate events throughout December.
If you have basic DJ skills or sound equipment, you can rent them out or perform at events. Even with minimal setup — laptop, speaker, and mixer — you can start earning immediately.
DJ & Music Entertainment Services is business ideas that will required earning the trust of people. Promote yourself on TikTok, Instagram, or WhatsApp by sharing short clips of your mixes or previous gigs. The festive season is the best time to grow your brand.
Event Photography & Videography
Memories matter, especially during Christmas and New Year celebrations. Photographers and videographers make serious money covering weddings, birthdays, and concerts in December.
You can also set up a mobile photo booth for parties or outdoor events. People love instant photos they can post on social media.
You’ll need a good camera or smartphone, ring light, and backdrop. Also, you’ll need to offer quick photo edits and digital copies. Clients love convenience and speed.
MC (Master of Ceremony) & Event Hosting
If you’re funny, confident, and know how to engage a crowd, becoming an MC or event host can bring in great income. From church events to traditional weddings, there’s always a need for someone to keep guests entertained.
Start small by hosting free or low-budget events to build your name. Once people see your energy and delivery, referrals will start rolling in.
You can combine MC (Master of Ceremony) and event hosting with comedy or hype-man skills — this will increase the entertainment value, and so does your earning power.
Event Equipment Rentals
Event equipment like chairs, canopies, sound systems, lighting, and projectors are in high demand during the festive period. If you already own some, you can rent them out. If not, start small with items like microphones, lighting units, or small speakers.
Partnering with event planners and decorators can give you regular business throughout the season.
I recommend you maintain your equipment well — neat, functional gear attracts more clients.
December is all about fun, celebration, and social gatherings — and if you can provide any service that helps people enjoy their events better, you’ll smile to the bank before the year ends.
Online & Service-Based Business Ideas for the Festive Season
While many businesses boom physically in December, there’s also a digital goldmine waiting online. With millions of Nigerians shopping, booking services, and sending money online during the holidays, December is the perfect time to cash in on digital and service-based opportunities — even from the comfort of your home.
Here are some of the most profitable online and service-based ideas you can start fast:
Social Media Management for Small Businesses
Many small business owners are too busy this period to handle their Instagram or WhatsApp promotions. You can offer to manage their pages — posting content, replying to customers, and running simple ads to attract buyers.
All you need are good communication skills and a smartphone. You can charge weekly or per campaign.
You need to focus on festive promotions — help clients create catchy “Christmas sales” posts or giveaway campaigns to boost engagement.
Gift & Food Delivery Services
December is full of giving — people send food, drinks, or gifts to loved ones across cities. You can act as a middleman: take orders online, package items nicely, and deliver them through logistics riders.
This works especially well in cities like Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, and Owerri, where busy professionals want to surprise family or friends.
Partner with bakers, caterers, or florists — you handle the delivery and earn a commission per order.
Freelance Content Creation
If you can write, design, or create short videos, December is a busy period for content creators. Brands need festive content — from Christmas flyers to social media captions and videos for end-of-year sales.
You can offer your services on platforms like Fiverr, Upwork, or even Naijaonlinebiz.com’s freelance community.
Create a festive content package — for example, “₦10,000 for 5 Christmas Instagram posts.” It’s simple and appealing to small business owners.
Makeup & Styling Services (Home Service Option)
Even though this can be partly physical, most bookings now happen online — through Instagram or WhatsApp. With so many weddings and parties happening, makeup artists, stylists, and barbers are heavily booked.
Promote your services online and offer home service options. People are willing to pay extra for convenience during the festive rush.
You can post your work on social media with before-and-after shots and use festive hashtags like #DettyDecember or #ChristmasGlam.
Event Ticket Sales & Promotions
December is packed with concerts, beach parties, and festivals — and you can make money by selling tickets online or promoting events for commissions.
You can sign up as an affiliate with event platforms like Tix Africa, Eventbrite, or Paystack Events, or directly partner with event organizers in your city.
Go to social media and create hype on social media — post event updates, performer lineups, and discount offers. The more tickets sold through your link, the more you earn
End-of-Year Cleaning & Home Service
As the year ends, families, offices, and churches want to deep-clean their spaces before Christmas or New Year. You can offer home cleaning, laundry, or fumigation services, and promote them online for easy bookings.
You don’t need big equipment to start — just cleaning supplies, a few helpers, and consistency.
You may need to create packages — for instance, “₦15,000 for 3-bedroom cleaning” or “₦5,000 for sofa cleaning.” Nigerians love clear pricing.
Temporary Pop-Up Shop or Market Stall
December markets are packed, and demand for almost everything — from clothes to food to household items — skyrockets. If you can source products cheaply, setting up a temporary pop-up stall in a busy area or market can bring in serious profit within weeks.
You can sell Christmas decorations, fashion accessories, provisions, or children’s toys — whatever moves fast in your area.
You need to choose a strategic location near bus stops, markets, or churches. Add festive music and lights to attract more customers. Even a small kiosk or canopy can make you visible and profitable during the rush.
Event Security & Bouncer Services
With the number of parties, concerts, and night events happening in December, security is a big deal. If you have experience or can assemble strong, reliable people, you can start a bouncer or event security service for venues, weddings, or nightclubs.
You don’t need to own equipment — just ensure your team looks professional (uniform shirts, ID cards, or branded caps) and behaves respectfully.
I recommend you partner with event planners or club owners early in the month. Security jobs pay well, especially for high-profile events.
December is a season of opportunity. Whether you choose to work offline or online, the key is to start early, market yourself well, and deliver quality service.
Those who prepare ahead often end the year smiling — and walk into the New Year with more customers and capital to grow bigger.
Bonus Opportunity: Get paid as a freelance writer on Naijaonlinebiz.com
Explore business ideas for the coming year:
- 10 Best States in Nigeria to Start a Profitable Small Business (2025)
- 31 Best Ways to Make Money Online in Nigeria (2025)
- How to Start a Provision Store Business in Nigeria (2025)
Conclusion
December in Nigeria is a goldmine of opportunities for smart entrepreneurs. From food and fashion to entertainment, transport, and online services, money flows freely as people spend to enjoy the festive season.
The truth is, you don’t need millions to start. Most of these December and Christmas business ideas can begin with small or moderate capital — what really matters is starting early, being creative, and delivering value.
Don’t wait until mid-December when the market is already saturated. Start planning now — gather your materials, promote your offers online, and position yourself where the demand will be high.
Remember, while others are spending this festive season, you could be earning and smiling to the bank.
Now, it’s your turn!
Pick one or two of these lucrative December business ideas and start preparing today. Whether it’s selling small chops, organizing events, running deliveries, or offering services online — there’s a space for you to profit this festive season.
Stay tuned to Naijaonlinebiz.com for more practical business ideas, startup guides, and success tips to help you grow your income in Nigeria.
If you found this post helpful, share it with a friend — someone out there might just find their next money-making idea for December!
FAQs About December Business Ideas in Nigeria
- What business can I start in December in Nigeria?
You can start food-related businesses like small chops, barbecue, or drink sales; fashion businesses like tailoring and clothes reselling; or service-based businesses like delivery, makeup, and event planning. The key is choosing something in high demand during the festive season.
- Which business is most profitable during Christmas in Nigeria?
Food and drinks always top the list — especially small chops, catering, and drinks. People eat and celebrate a lot during December. Other profitable ventures include hampers, fashion, logistics, and event-related services.
- Can I start a December business with small capital?
Yes, absolutely! Many festive businesses can start with ₦10,000–₦50,000 — such as zobo drinks, snacks, home deliveries, or gift hampers. Start small, reinvest your profit, and scale as demand increases.
- When should I start preparing for December business?
The best time to start preparing is between October and early November. This gives you time to plan, source materials, and advertise before the “December rush” begins.
- How can I promote my December business fast?
Use social media — especially WhatsApp, Facebook, and Instagram. Post pictures, share testimonials, and use hashtags like #ChristmasSales, #FestiveDeals, and #NaijaBusiness. You can also print flyers or offer small discounts to attract first customers.
- What kind of services do people need in December?
People need services that make their holidays’ easier — food delivery, decoration, logistics, photography, makeup, event hosting, and cleaning. If your service saves people time or stress, you’ll get steady customers.
- Can I continue these businesses after December?
Yes, many of these December businesses can become year-round income sources. For example, catering, fashion design, gift packaging, logistics, and social media management all remain profitable after the festive season.
- How can students make money during December holiday?
Students can take advantage of short-term opportunities like selling snacks or drinks, offering home services, helping with deliveries, or managing social media pages for local businesses. December is a perfect time to learn business skills and earn extra cash.