Five weekend experiences in Kigali: Art, film, traditional music

The year has just begun, and wallets may already be feeling the pinch. But that doesn't mean your weekends have to be dull! Here’s our weekly roundup of the best spots in Kigali to unwind and enjoy some entertainment. ALSO READ: Rwanda's Israel Mbonyi earns pan-African nomination at 2025 Trace Awards in Zanzibar Take your pick from these five highlights: A Day in Paris Four young women entrepreneurs from The Core IV event management company are bringing a touch of France to Kigali with their debut event, A Day in Paris. Scheduled for Sunday, January 5, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at The Hut restaurant in Kimihurura, the brunch promises a taste of French cuisine with customizable bagels, a mini tart bar, and a mimosa-making demonstration. Attendees can also enjoy an Eiffel Tower-inspired photo setup to complete the Parisian experience. “We’re excited to bring a slice of France to the Kigali community,” says Nenette, The Core IV’s coordinator. Tickets for the brunch cost Rwf35,000 each, and the dress code is Parisian chic. Reserve your table today for a Sunday escape to the City of Light. Kompa Night at Lemon This Friday, January 3, Lemon Kigali is hosting a Kompa Night for fans of rooftop vibes and Afro-Caribbean beats. Expect an evening filled with kompa, kizomba, zouk, salsa, and bachata, with DJ Lamper, Deejay Arthur, and Coach Danny on deck. Ladies get free entry between 7 p.m. and 8 p.m., and there’ll be complimentary shots every hour from 9 p.m. to 11 p.m. Lemon Kigali is located in Kimihurura on KG 623 St. For VIP bookings, contact +250 780 691 569 or email lemonkigali@gmail.com. Art Talk: David Daut Makala on ‘Persistence of Vision’ Missed David Daut Makala’s Persistence of Vision art exhibition? Don’t worry—the Zambian artist is kicking off the year with an intimate art talk to share the stories and creativity behind his captivating works. Join him on Sunday, January 5, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., and dive deeper into the vision that brought his art to life. The location is Inkindi Arts Space (24KG 550 ST) Moana 2 at Canal Olympia Rebero Set sail on an epic adventure with Moana 2! Follow the courageous teenager as she teams up with the demigod Maui to save her people. Together, they brave uncharted waters, face enormous monsters, and discover the true power of determination. Catch the full movie at Canal Olympia Rebero this weekend: Saturday, January 4, at 2 p.m. Sunday, January 5, at 11 a.m. Tickets are Rwf3,000—don’t miss this family favorite! Gakondo Nights: Traditional Tunes in Kigali Immerse yourself in Rwanda’s rich cultural heritage with live traditional music performances this Friday: Indashyikirwa Troupe will perform at Antonov in Kicukiro, starting at 7 p.m. Intare Gakondo Group will take the stage at Igitego Hotel in Remera from 6 p.m. Both performances offer free entry, making them perfect for an evening of authentic Rwandan sounds. The New Times is your go-to platform for all events happening in Kigali. From entertainment highlights to the latest updates on current affairs, we’ve got you covered. Plan your weekend with our curated selection of activities and stay connected for real-time updates through our social media channels. Stay informed and make the most of your time in the city!

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Five weekend experiences in Kigali: Art, film, traditional music