If there is anything everyone is grateful for, it is the fact that there is freedom to socialise, travel, attend shows freely without limitations, unlike before when Covid-19 had the world locked up indoors, with less to no fun, and a bag of worries.

It is time to pay back for the lost time through enjoyment and spending more time with loved ones. The New Times had an interview with some superstars who shared their Christmas in brief.

Joe Babu, comedian

I normally celebrate Christmas with family, and New Year’s with friends. It was different this time. I received many calls from friends inviting me to join them in feasting. How I wish I would make it to all places, but I managed to visit three families. I first had a moment of prayer at my home in the morning, and reflected on the past tough Covid-19 years. In the afternoon, I set off to the few invited venues, first at Busanza, Kabeza, and later Kicukiro. I spared some time to speak to some of my family members via phone, and luckily, sent my mother, who is in Kenya, her favorites, that is, ‘akabanga’ chili, and Agashya passion juice. It was a day of merry, and by evening, I was excessively tired, but left for home a happy person appreciating the love my friends showed me.

Aline Gahongayire, gospel music recording artist

I spent my Christmas morning at Onomo Hotel where I performed, met my fans, and shared a meal with my family. Israel Mbonyi’s concert was the highlight of the day, as I spent an amazing time in the presence of God, singing along to his music, and thanking God for the gift of life. As it is our culture at Ndineza Organisation to give to the underprivileged in society, I am rejoicing with a number of them with whom we shall have lunch tomorrow at my home and will be sharing some gifts with them as well. I appreciate the people who love and were able to give me gifts, I don’t take it for granted, and I pray that God rewards them.

Remmy Lubega, events organiser

My family and I attended service at New Life Bible Church, Kicukiro. The sermon stressed that God uses people to do great things, as He used Joseph and Mary who weren’t even qualified to be Jesus’ parents.

Shortly after I drove off from church, I noticed an accident not so far away from where I was, I therefore hurried to save an old woman who was knocked by a motorcycle and seemed to have hurt her back, as people were passing her while others looked on. Thankfully, I rushed her to a clinic where she is receiving treatment and she is in good condition. I would say that saving someone is the best gift I received on Christmas. Afterwards, we proceeded home where we had lunch and shared ample time as family. We showed up at Israel Mbonyi’s concert, which was well organised and portrayed how the gospel music has grown locally.

Israel Mbonyi, Gospel singer

This was one of my favorite Christmases yet. I spent the day preparing for my event, and I was mind-blown by the turn up. Although I predicted a number of people to attend I didn't think tickets would be sold out, even when it was prepared with a month. Joy filled my heart. Boxing Day was when I was able to gather with family, from around 11am to 5pm. We shared food, played games, cracked jocks, accompanied with all kinds of entertainment.

David Bayingana, Media personality, MC

Since the morning of Christmas, my mind was at Mbonyi’s concert. I couldn’t wait to attend it. During the day, we managed to have an awesome moment praying together as a family, having discussions, and dining together. Then the evening experience at the gospel show was divine. All I wished for Israel was to have a successful event and thankfully, God heard my prayer. I cherished every moment of the show.

Jemima Kakizi, artist

If there is anything that I find important, however busy my schedules are, it is the gift of family. We invited some friends over at home for lunch. I really appreciate God for life that we were all in good health to celebrate Christmas. I managed to balance family time and work. I took some time off after lunch to work since I am preparing for my art exhibition titled, "Walk with me” that is expected to happen on January 7.

Franck Axel Nyabagabo, professional photographer

I love giving gifts to my loved ones, so on December 24, I decided to go shopping for some gifts for my parents, siblings, and girlfriend. Later, I went to my parent’s home where we had an incredible time until midnight. We exchanged gifts before I left to meet my friends. While out, in the wee hours of the night on Saturday, we planned to have special Christmas with other friends. We had Christmas brunch at the Radisson Blu Hotel with friends and my girlfriend. We made every moment count, and took as many photos as possible. Later that evening, we caught up with other friends at a restaurant, where the fun continued. We reminisced about the old moments, and later wanted to finish the night in high gear, and the best option was at a nightclub. This is where we spent the rest of the night.

Sonia Kayitesi, deejay

Usually, I celebrate Christmas with my family. We go to church in the morning, come back and share lunch together while we connect with family members that we haven't seen in a while. Evenings I prefer taking a nap. However, this time, it’s been pretty different. We have been performing on Christmas and New year’s tour alongside other friends in entertainment such as DJ Bissoso, DJ Ira, VJ Mupenzi, MC Tino, and other performers like Platini, Bushali, Misteak, and others. When I come back to Kigali, perhaps on January 2, I shall celebrate with my family.

Chriss Eazy, hip-hop artiste

Fun is an understatement when I start to describe this Christmas. It was an honor and pleasure to perform for my fans, bond, and eat food together in Musanze. I love and value my fans so much because their support has contributed to my growth. I managed to come back to Kigali on Boxing Day where we had a party at home, ate and drank. It had been a long time since we last all gathered.