January does not feel like it is in a hurry this year. By the third week, the new year glow has faded, and it is back to business.
For those looking for easy ways to spend the weekend, this is a good place to start, with picks across music, comedy, art and food.
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Atelier du Vibe
Atelier du Vibe returns on Friday with a live edition that blends performance and DJ sets into an easygoing night out. The evening features a live performance by KidFromKigali, with DJ Tyga and DJ Melanin on the decks.
Music runs from 5 p.m. until late at Atelier du Vin, drawing a crowd that comes for good sound and a relaxed, easygoing atmosphere.
Thank God It’s Funny
Thank God It’s Funny, also known as Sunday Night Live, is Rwanda’s first English stand-up comedy platform, created to spotlight local comedians while introducing Kigali audiences to performers from across Africa.
The show blends stand up, music and storytelling, with a rotating line-up of comedians supported by a resident DJ and hype man to keep the energy steady throughout the night.
This week’s edition is hosted by Babu Joe and features headliners Micheal, Arnold and Herve. The show takes place Friday, January 23, from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Kigali Universe.
General admission is 10,000 Rwandan francs, VIP tickets are 20,000 francs, and tables of six are priced at 200,000 francs, with half of the table fee consumable.
Art and Coffee Party
Coffee, cocktails and creativity take over Rooftop Ikawa Café on Saturday afternoon for the Kigali Art and Coffee Party.
The event runs from noon to 6 p.m. and pairs specialty coffee with signature cocktails, including espresso martinis, alongside gourmet bites and live DJ sets that carry into golden hour.
The rooftop gathering also features a pop-up art showcase by Rwandan artists Nduwimana, Regis Muhirwa and Derrick Ndushabandi, with works available for purchase during the event.
The Art and Coffee Party is part of the Kigali Coffee Parties series, which brings together coffee culture, art and community in the city.
Incuti Cookout
Incuti Cookout takes over Kimihurura on Saturday afternoon with food, music and an easy community feel. Hosted with thedicekid, the event centers on Incuti Foods’ signature chicken wings, paired with drinks from Bicu Lounge and music by DJ Higa and Rusam.
The cookout runs from 2 p.m. to 10 p.m. along Cocobean Road, offering a relaxed outdoor setting for groups of friends and anyone looking to spend the day around good food and familiar faces.
Resonator: Frequency
Electronic and Afro influenced sounds come into focus on Saturday night at Mundi Center with Resonator: Frequency. The free entry event begins at 8 p.m. and features Juergen Mügen, Boben, Paul Bragi, Ruti and Binghi on the decks, moving through techno, house and Afro rhythms in a high energy club setting.
The night is designed for dance floor regulars and curious listeners alike, with music carrying on until late.
Chill and Praise Gospel Sundays
Mundi Center opens its doors to a different kind of Sunday with Chill and Praise Gospel Sundays, an afternoon gathering centered on worship and reflection.
Hosted by Rachel Uwineza, the event offers a relaxed space to slow down, sing and spend time in praise. The session takes place on January 25 from 4 p.m.
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