The heat outside is serious, and Kigali’s weekend scene might just top it. With guests flying in and festivities rolling out from sundown to sunrise, the city is set to pulse. Our curated list covers the best of what’s happening, so pick your vibe and show up. ALSO READ: Eight must-stream movie gems for your weekend Atelier Fridays: GOA Edition Kick off the weekend this Friday, July 25, at Atelier du Vin with international DJs setting the mood as Kigali welcomes another edition of the Giants of Africa Festival. Enjoy a special all-night promotion: buy one, get one free on wines, cognacs, sparkling wine, and champagne. Entry is Rwf10,000. Kigali Cine Junction This Friday, July 25, the third day of the Kigali Cine Junction festival unfolds across the city. At Cine Mayaka, the second half of the Main Short Program: Border Crossings screens from 2 to 3:30 p.m., followed by Focus on Senegal, a cultural showcase running from 3:45 to 6:30 p.m. For the evening, film lovers can head to Imbuga Car Free Zone for a Romantic Night Under the Stars, featuring The Taste of Things, screening from 5:30 to 9 p.m. Entry for all films is Rwf3,000. On Saturday, July 26, Focus on Senegal continues at Cine Mayaka from noon to 4:50 p.m., with standout titles like Murmurs and Afrique sur Seine. At 5 p.m., Phiona: A Girl From Madrid will make its national premiere at Cine Mayaka, followed by A Real Pain under the stars at Imbuga Car Free Zone from 7:30 to 9 p.m. Family audiences can enjoy Sauvages at L’Espace, screening from 5 to 9 p.m. The festival concludes on Sunday, July 27, with a special COUPS DE COEUR program at Cine Mayaka from 1 to 3:20 p.m., featuring top selections from the world’s largest short film festival. At 4 p.m., the only East African film featured at Berlinale 2025, Minimals in a Titanic World, will make its national premiere at Cine Mayaka. The final screening of the festival, Imihigo, also marking its national premiere, takes place at Imbuga Car Free Zone from 7 to 9:30 p.m. La Onda: Catch the Latin Wave This Saturday, July 26 at Atelier du Vin for Rwf20,000, feel the heat with Etania and DJ Toxxyk spinning Latin-infused sets that keep the dance floor moving until late. Atmosfera: Summer Edition Atmosfera returns to Mundi Center for a Special Summer Edition on Saturday, July 26. The event moves outdoors for a hotter, louder, and wilder experience. Kenyan Afro-house icon AFU will fly in to headline the night, alongside a live performance by Motreja. House DJs Lamper, Senshi, Khabibu, and Paul Bragi will keep the beats flowing. Get your dance shoes and best outfit ready for what promises to be an unforgettable night. Entry is Rwf15,000 at the door, with VIP plus stage access tickets available for Rwf25,000. Oldies Music Festival This Saturday, July 26, the Oldies Music Festival moves from Canal Olympia, Rebero, to Kigali Universe to bring the experience closer to the music community. The new venue will offer a club-like atmosphere with enhanced lighting and ambiance. The festival celebrates golden-era music with top Rwandan DJs Nicolas Peks, DJ RY, and Brek The Entertainer spinning fan favorites from Rwanda, East Africa, the United States, and beyond. Ticket prices are Rwf10,000 for regular seats, Rwf20,000 for VIP, and Rwf200,000 for a table of six. Lionel Sentore: Uwangabiye Album Launch Belgium-based Rwandan artist Lionel Sentore will launch his debut album, Uwangabiye, in a concert this Saturday, July 27, at Kigali Conference and Exhibition Village. The event will feature live performances by fellow Gakondo artists Ruti Joel, Jules Sentore, and the renowned Ishyaka ry’Intore troupe. The album includes 12 tracks, such as Umukobwa w’Abeza, Teta, and Uko Bimeze featuring Mike Kayihura. Tickets are available, ranging from Rwf10,000 for regular admission to Rwf20,000 for premium, Rwf35,000 for VIP, Rwf200,000 for VIP tables, and Rwf500,000 for corporate tables. Giants of Africa Festival Opening Show Kigali will host the opening show of the Giants of Africa Festival 2025 on Sunday, July 27, at BK Arena. The event runs from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. and carries the theme “A Borderless Africa.” The show will feature live performances by artistes Ruti Joël, Uncle Waffles, and Sherrie Silver, with additional acts from Boukuru and Kevin Kade. The Giants of Africa Festival is expected to bring together talents from across the continent in a series of events throughout Kigali. Piano Supreme: Afterparty Following the Giants of Africa Festival opening concert featuring headliner Uncle Waffles, music lovers can continue the night at a groove party hosted at Atelier du Vin. DJs Kevin Klein and Tygaa will spin lively piano house tracks to keep the energy going. The event is brought to you by SeevAfrica, Intore Entertainment, and Desperados. Bonus: Escape to Isanzure Sunday, July 27 | Eagle View Farm, Bugesera | Rwf15,000 adults, Rwf5,000 kids Trade the city buzz for fresh air at this lakeside retreat featuring breathwork sessions, live sax, traditional performances, BBQ by Mocha Café, farm tours, and boat rides. A perfect recharge before the new week. The New Times brings you the latest on Kigali’s entertainment scene and breaking news. Stay ahead of the weekend with our curated event picks, and get real-time updates by following us on social media
