Families in Lagos turned out in large numbers at Filmworld Cinema along Ikotun-Idimu Road on Monday, marking Easter with outings many parents described as an opportunity to unwind and bond.
The holiday rush started early, as families arrived soon after church services to secure seats for popular movies and take part in the day’s activities. By early afternoon, the cinema was already experiencing heavy patronage, with visitors queuing for new releases and enjoying Easter-themed attractions.
Children participated in games, photo sessions, and themed displays, adding colour and excitement to the celebrations.
Despite the lively atmosphere, ticket prices—set at N10,000 for adults and N7,000 for children—sparked mixed reactions. While some parents voiced concerns about affordability, others felt the experience justified the cost due to the quality of entertainment and facilities.
Mr David Ajayi noted that the Easter break provided a valuable chance for families to reconnect despite busy schedules.
“The children have been looking forward to this outing all week. Easter symbolises hope and renewal, so spending the day together feels special.
“The ticket price is on the high side, but moments like this make it worthwhile,” Ajayi said.
He also commended the child-friendly environment and staff for maintaining order amid the large turnout, adding that such outings help strengthen family ties.
Mrs Florence Eze described the festive mood as uplifting, explaining that her children insisted on visiting the cinema after church.
“We wanted somewhere safe and fun for them, and Filmworld provides that. The kids are excited, and the decorations here make the Easter spirit more vibrant.
“It is important for families to create memories on days like this,” she said, noting that the outing allowed parents to see their children’s joy outside school settings.
Mr Kayode Adepoju highlighted that cinema visits on Easter Monday have gradually become a cherished family tradition.
“If we stay home, they will be glued to their gadgets. Coming here keeps them engaged and gives me time to unwind.
“In spite of the crowd, the cinema is organised and the experience has been smooth,” he said.
He encouraged more entertainment centres to introduce structured, family-friendly holiday packages across the city, adding that such initiatives could reduce idleness among children and promote social interaction.
Mrs Ruth Ibikunle said the outing served as a reward for her children’s strong academic performance.
“This break is short, so every moment counts. The children earned this because they did well academically.
“The cinema has managed the rush well, and we feel safe and comfortable,” Ibikunle said.
She added that Easter is a time for families to value togetherness, show gratitude, and celebrate shared achievements.
A cinema staff member revealed that the turnout was among the highest recorded this year, driven by Easter celebrations and parents rewarding their children. Management had prepared by increasing staff and organising activities to improve the overall experience.
Many parents, however, called for more affordable holiday entertainment, urging both private operators and government bodies to invest in accessible leisure facilities for families across different income levels.