It was a moment of merrymaking as guests gathered at Radisson Blu Hotel, Kimuhurura, on December 13, to get into the Christmas mood and witness various presentations and performances.

The Christmas bazaar, that attracted thousands of people, was entertained by Green Hills Top band and some of the songs played included Joy to the World, Jingle Bells, Silent Night, Once in Royal David’s City, among others.

The giant Christmas tree with decorations.

Students from SOS Children’s Village Kigali, were the guests of honour. At exactly 7p.m, the Christmas tree is lit after a countdown of five, and the audience hollered in amusement. The Christmas tree was named, "Icyerekezo”, to mean direction.

A young boy sits on a chair next to a Christmas tree and gifts. Photos by Emmanuel Kwizera.

Children at the event played and fun, while others posed for photos and received gifts from Santa. 

Participants enjoyed eats and drinks. Christmas melodies played along as people networked and feasted. Whoever had a phone captured the beautiful moment. Kids had a delightful session with Santa Claus, who distributed gifts to them.

According to Stuart Bower, the Green Hills Top band conductor, it was such a golden opportunity to perform on such a day when the whole world was waiting on the birth of Jesus. It is for this reason, therefore that we joined the rest of Kigali residents in Christmas tunes, he said.

Hanna Moges, the Marketing and Communications Manager, Radisson Blu Hotel Kigali, said that the Christmas bazaar started on December 13, and will carry through December 16.

Father Christmas poses for a photo with parents and their children.

"There are so many activities we are yet to unveil, for instance, face painting, bouncing castle, and much more, no one ought to miss this.”

She added that during this festive season, there will be promotions by the hotel, Christmas lunch, end of year dinner, and a gospel show that will be graced by local artistes.

Every year, the hotel organises Christmas parties to celebrate the festive season with its clients.

One of the kids that were present, Caleb Ntwali Muvungi, a pupil of Saint Paul International School, Remera, appreciated the hotel for organising such an event, as he got a chance "to receive gifts, pose with Santa Claus,  enjoy to the fullest, and make new friends.”