As January marches on, dubbed by some as the month that never ends, nothing propels time forward more than a weekend filled with exciting events. The New Times is back with a guide to the top nine spots in Kigali for those seeking a good time.

1. Funky Friday at Sud Kigali

Kavumbi Dust is set to perform live at Sud Kigali this Friday, January 19, with the show kicking off at 7 pm, and the best part—it's free entrance! The event promises an eclectic musical experience with additional special performances, featuring Deelex the DJ spinning mainstream tracks, Murvin Jay delivering Deep house vibes, the Funky Friday Crew showcasing amapiano music, and music producer and DJ Eitball. It's "going to be an evening filled with diverse sounds and you won't want to miss.”

2. After Work Fridays at Pili Pili

For those who've clocked in the hours during the week, unwind at Pili Pili on KG 303 St 12. Guest DJ Clara, along with house DJ K, sets the stage for a night of relaxation, complemented by live Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) matches. Entry is free.

3. A Night With Symphony Band at Cocobean

Experience the tunes of Symphony Band at Cocobean, KG 5 Ave, this Friday, January 19. DJ StevTouch will join the lineup, ensuring a night of both viral hits and mainstream music.

The festivities commence at 6 pm and promise to continue into the late hours.

4. Friday Night In Kigali at Atelier du Vin

Club enthusiasts head to Atelier du Vin on KN 3rd (Akagera Marketplace) from 6 pm for a night filled with beats from the DJ duo, Kevin Klein and DJ Inno. Free parking adds to the appeal of this Friday night affair.

5. Old School versus New School at Atelier du Vin

Prepare for a DJ showdown reminiscent of a generational clash, featuring none other than DJ Bissoso, a star in the old generation, and the freshest face in the scene, DJ Toxxyk. The battle is set to unfold live at Atelier du Vin, located on KN 3rd (Akagera Marketplace), this Saturday, January 20. For an evening of musical nostalgia and contemporary beats, entry fee goes for Rwf10,000.

6. Crescendo Music Xperience Amapiano Edition at Antonov

Rwandan DJs Platy Wanyama, Dallas, and Selecta Danny are back with their monthly musical experience, 'Crescendo Music Xperience.' This month, the spotlight is on amapiano, and the event will feature performances by Platy Wanyama, Selekta Danny, Tasha the DJ, and DJ Olis.

The unique concept behind the event involves each edition focusing on a specific genre chosen by the DJs. Attendees are encouraged to immerse themselves in the cultural and historical roots of the selected genre through their attire. The show is this Saturday, January 20, at Antonov in Kicukiro (KK 15rd).

7. Mutarama Turatarama - Ibihame by’Imana Cultural Festival at KCEV

Ibihame by’Imana, the renowned all-male cultural troupe, hosts its annual cultural festival 'Mutarama Turatarama,' this weekend.

This event aims to bring together enthusiasts of Rwandan traditional music (Gakondo) to celebrate 'Ubutore,' a collection of Rwanda’s core values, and 'Guhamiriza,' the 'warrior dance.'

ALSO READ: Ibihame by’Imana gears up for cultural festival

The three-day festival kicks off this Friday, January 19, and continues until the 21st. The objective is to educate Rwandans about the significance of Ubutore, its essence, and its meaning in Rwandan culture, particularly for those unfamiliar with it. Edmond Cyogere, a member of Ibihame by’Imana, shared this in an interview with The New Times.

Head to the Kigali Conference and Exhibition Village (KCEV), formerly Camp Kigali, to experience Rwandan cultural heritage. A one-day pass is available for Rwf10,000, while VIP access is priced at Rwf15,000. VVIP tickets are available at Rwf25,000, and those seeking a premium setting can opt for a table at Rwf400,000.

8. Yoga Sessions at Nyandungu Eco-Park

Find tranquility at Pond Muhazi, Nyandungu Eco-Park, this Sunday, January 21, from 5 pm to 6 pm. Vinyasa yoga led by Live Well Rwanda offers a mindful experience. Limited slots are available for Rwf5,000 on TicQuet. Remember to bring your own yoga mat and a water bottle, limited mats are available for rent.

9. Trilogy Photography Exhibition

‘The Trilogy’, a week-long photography exhibition by Hakim Rachid, also known as Umuntuu, is set to take place from January 20-27, at Atelier Academy and will be open to the public every day from 6pm - 10pm, free of charge.

ALSO READ: All set for The Trilogy solo photography exhibition

The exhibition highlights three series from Umuntuu’s photography practice from the beginning till late 2022. The series in the trilogy are; Walking in Black, Beauty redefined and female lines, featuring over 50 photographs taken between 2020 and 2023, plus postcards of never-seen-before pictures Umuntuu made in collaboration with his subjects.

Make the most of your weekend with these diverse and entertaining events tailored for 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.