Summer provides a dizzying assortment of party possibilities, and while seasoned revellers may already have their go-to venues, finding the perfect gathering can be difficult for the rest of us.
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To make things easier, we&039;ve compiled a weekly schedule of events to suit every taste and style, all geared to help you fight the Kigali heat. Dive into our top 10 choices:
Meet me at the rooftop
If you're into the indie rap scene, let's gather at Rooftop Ikawa Cafe after work this Friday, June 28. The night will feature known acts Sema Solé, Underworra, TheDiceKid, and D.R.A.P.E.S. Entry is Rwf10,000 at the door. The show begins at 5:30 pm and runs till 10:30 pm.
Urban Friday summer party
This Friday, June 28, at La Cachette, Mundi Center, is the first Urban Friday of the summer. Savour live cooking demonstrations by Chef B&C, a wine and cocktail bar, and DJ Lyynduh's music. Doors open at 7 pm.
If you're in the mood for a night of French wine tasting or want to revel in club music, join the fun as doors open at 7 pm. Admission is free.
Live Jazz & Blues, with Makumbi Sounds and Tamfum
Makumbi Sounds, an Afro-Jazz ensemble, will perform live jazz and blues music at Tugende Cafe as part of the VolkanoFest and Virunga Silver festival. The evening will begin with a happy hour from 5-7 p.m., giving a buy one, get one free bargain on beers and selected cocktails for Rwf5,000. Admission tickets cost Rwf10,000.
Tamfum, a key character in the soukous movement, which gained prominence in Africa and France in the late twentieth century, will join them.
Tamfum, also known as Fidel in the 1970s, was born in Kinshasa, DR Congo's capital. He is famed not just for his daring tours to Africa, but also for pioneering the use of different tunings in soukous music.
Family Fun Fiesta
Searching for the ideal spot for family relaxation? Nature Kigali is hosting a Family Fun Fiesta this Saturday, June 29, featuring a variety of activities including table tennis, cornhole, Jenga, Scrabble, dartboard, and more. There's also a playground for kids, and the day will conclude with a campfire.
Nature Kigali is located at KG 515 ST, House 9, Nyarutarama, near the Ugandan High Commission Residence, admission is free.
Soccer Camp at San Siro Academy
Bring your little guys (ages 5 to 15) to Sanitas KK 102 ST for an afternoon football camp. It starts this Saturday, June 29, and runs through September 8. Qualified instructors will be on hand three weekdays and both weekend days. The cost is Rwf5,000 per child, with kickoff taking place at 4 p.m.
Caravane du Rire Comedy Festival
The third edition of the Caravane du Rire comedy festival is here, featuring a star-studded lineup of over 10 local and international comedians. Join the laughter this Saturday, June 29, at Institut Français. This multilingual comedy event will be headlined by Paris-based comedian Samia Orosemane, known for her unique style and humourous takes on life and love. Other international acts include Sylvanie Njeng from Cameroon, Uganda’s Napoleone and Cotilda, and Kenya’s Chipukeezy.
Local talents like Michael Sengazi, Prince Nshizirungu, Herve Kimenyi, Muhinde, Merci Ndaruhutse, and Babu will also perform. Entry is Rwf 10,000.
Kivu Fest Kigali Edition
One of Rwanda's biggest music festivals, usually held at Kivu Public Beach in Rubavu, is coming to Kigalithis weekend! Join in at Onomo Hotel from Saturday to Sunday, July 30, for non-stop DJ sets featuring DJ YB from the US, along with DJs Shema, Pyfo, Kevin Klein, Joe the Drummer, Khizzbeats, and more.
Tickets are Rwf 20,000, and the show kicks off at 2 pm on Saturday.
God’s Fame in Our Days
From Friday, June 28 to Sunday, June 30, seven local and international pastors will join the God’s Fame in Our Days congregation for the Chayah Gathering. This spiritual event, initiated in 2019 by women leaders from various churches, is now in its third edition.
The New Life Bible Church in Kicukiro will host the event, with a special focus on reaching out to a large number of youth, both believers and non-believers.
The gathering aims to provide an opportunity for young people to encounter God and be transformed by His grace. The event will address pressing issues such as severe depression, suicide, addiction, and lack of direction, teaching that lasting solutions can be found in Jesus Christ.
Speakers include Pastor Charles Mugisha, Pastor Florence Mugisha, Pastor Christopher Rue, Pastor Dana Rue, Pastor Edmond Kivuye, Dr. Michael Biryabarema, and Pastor Lea Mukabaranga. Worship leaders will feature Chryso Ndasingwa, Fabrice and Maya, and See Muzik. Prayers begin at 5 pm.
The Toxxyk Experience and Long Weekend in Gisenyi
For those looking to escape Kigali this summer, head to Heza Beach Resort in Rubavu District this Saturday, July 29, for the Toxxyk Experience. The event features performances by Chris Eazy, Ish Kevin, and Logan Joe, along with DJs Kalexx, Kiss, Sonia, Dream Team, Illest, GrvndLvng, Kevin Klein, Higa & Rusam, and more.
Regular tickets are Rwf15,000, VIP tickets are Rwf20,000, VVIP tickets are Rwf50,000, and there's an option to support the performers for Rwf 100,000.
Don't miss the "Long Weekend in Gisenyi" disc jockeying extravaganza hosted by DJ Marnaud, featuring South African DJs TxC on the shores of Lake Kivu at Le Grand Chalet. The event includes a performance by rising Nigerian artiste Chella, known for the viral track "Nyash na Nyash," from Sunday, June 30, to July 1. Pre-sale tickets are available for Rwf10,000.
Make the most of your weekend with these diverse and entertaining events tailored to every taste. To catch up on the latest events happening in Kigali, visit The New Times and follow our social media platforms for updates throughout the weekend.