Kigali is getting into the holiday mood with a variety of entertainment activities already underway in different hotels and event companies.

Radisson Blu Hotel is one of the facilities that have lined up a series of fun-filled events throughout the festive season.

The hotel kicked off the activities Thursday with it’s first-ever Christmas tree lighting ceremony.

The event was held at hotel’s patio, where guests marveled at a dazzling 15-foot Christmas tree.

The Christmas tree lighting was officiated by Radisson Blu Hotel and Kigali Convention Centre’s manager, Sami Ounalli.

"Christmas period is very important worldwide and, of course, in Rwanda,” said Ounalli. "Today, we’re doing the Christmas tree lighting, which is very important because we’re doing it for our clients and the entire community,” he added.

It took two days for a team of 10 people to get the Christmas tree all set up.

The ambience was terrific at the lighting as guests were treated to Christmas carol performances and a cocktail reception.

Other highlights of the event included the unveiling of the hotel’s special calendar, which is packed with entertainment throughout the festive season.

"Every day there will be an activity. We shall also have two big concerts. I invite all people to come and enjoy the end of year festivities with us,” said Ounalli.

"It’s free access, people can come any time they want, enjoy the hotel facilities, the bazaar, shops. We encourage parents to bring their children because there will be plenty of interesting activities for them to enjoy,” he added.

On calendar

Christmas Bazaar

The Christmas Bazaar will be held from December 23-28, from 10a.m to 10p.m. The activities will include face painting, jumping castle and video games for kids. There will also be an exhibition; fashion, art and crafts, food stalls; snacks, barbeque and drinks. Entertainment will be provided by Dj Toxxyk, Dj Miller, Gakondo group and spoken word and more.

New Year Count Down

To usher in the New Year in style, Radisson Hotel is also organising a major concert dubbed; New Year’s Count Down at Kigali Convention Centre, on December 31.

The highly-anticipated concert will see Nigerian Afro-pop songbird Yemi Alade perform in the country for the first. The Johnny star will share the stage with Kenyan Afro-pop band Sauti Sol.

Impala Orchestra will also be on hand to deliver local oldies. Entrance fee is Regular Rwf30,000, VIP Rwf50,000.

During Thursday’s event, Santa served goodies to the guests and children present to usher them into the festive season.

"I thought it was really cool and I love Christmas,” said Sandra Umutoni, one of the guests at the event.

"It was wonderful. We’ve been here all evening and I thoroughly enjoyed the ambiance and drinks.”

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