The countdown is officially on. This is the last full weekend before Christmas, and Kigali’s social calendar is leaning hard into the festive mood. For those planning how to spend the holidays with friends or family, this stretch offers more than just nights out. It speaks to connection, sound that resonates and spaces that carry warmth as the year wraps up. ALSO READ: Timeless Rwandan songs that define Festive Season Toast to December The festive season officially kicks into gear this Friday with Toast to December at Atelier du Vin, a year-end party designed for those ready to celebrate the highs and memories of 2025. The night brings together music, energy and a polished social atmosphere, making it an easy pick for groups looking to toast the season in style. Performances by GL Ceejay and Scotts Maphuma anchor the evening, supported by sets from Emmy Blaq and a line-up of house DJs including Toxxyk, Alisha, Inno and MC Big B. Whether you arrive with friends or meet new faces on the dance floor, the event promises a lively start to the holiday mood. Tickets are priced at Rwf1 million for a 10-person package with one Martell and two bottles of champagne, Rwf500,000 for a five-person package with one Martell and one bottle of champagne, Rwf25,000 for regular admission and Rwf35,000 for VIP access. Dawidi Solo Festive Edition For music lovers seeking a more intimate experience, L’Espace hosts the Dawidi Solo Festive Edition this Friday evening. The special solo show is designed as a heartfelt close to the year, inviting fans to sing along, connect and share in the energy that only a live performance can create. Running from 7 to 10 p.m., the concert leans into emotion and crowd participation, with a few surprises promised along the way. Rwf10,000 for entry. December Madness Fest Saturday, Dec. 20, Kigali comes alive again with December Madness Fest at Atelier du Vin, a night brimming with music, high energy, and moments you won’t forget. Topping the bill is the explosive debut of Taurus Madness in Kigali, alongside Red Bull 3STYLE Champion DJ Puffy from Barbados, performing in the city for the very first time. Adding local flavour, Rwandan stars Kivumbi King and Angell Mutoni will join the line-up, alongside top DJs including DJ Toxxyk, DJ Lamper, DJ June and GRVNDLVNG. Tickets are available across a range of options: 20,000 francs for regular entry, 35,000 francs for VIP, 350,000 francs for a VIP group of four, 500,000 francs for a group of seven, and 1 million francs for a group of 10. Consumable tickets include drinks as part of the package. Come through for a high-energy blend of international and local talent, creating a night of music, chaos, and celebration to mark the end of 2025. Kids’ Special Christmas Party Park Inn by Radisson Kigali hosts a full-day Kids’ Special Christmas Party on Saturday, Dec. 20, offering a festive mix of games, treats and holiday surprises. Designed as a safe and lively family experience, the event runs from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and is priced at 25,000 francs per child. Children can enjoy supervised swimming, bouncing castles, trampolines, face painting and a variety of games, alongside a special kids’ menu, snacks and gifts from Santa. It is a hands-on holiday experience built around play, comfort and lasting memories. The celebrations continue on Sunday, Dec. 21, with a Christmas tree lighting ceremony at the hotel. Children’s passes are priced at 20,000 francs, while parents receive complimentary entry. Families can expect a shared tree-lighting moment, a meet-and-greet with Santa Claus, festive music and children’s treats. North Pole Adventure For families looking to extend the festive fun, North Pole Adventure offers a weeklong pre-Christmas experience for children aged 1 to 16. Hosted at Four Points by Sheraton, the event runs from Saturday, Dec. 20, through Christmas Day. The immersive setup features games, creative activities and festive treats designed to spark imagination and seasonal excitement. Entry is priced at 10,000 francs per day, with a full-week pass available for 40,000 francs. Legends Night Kigali turns its attention to heritage and memory this Saturday as Legends Night returns with a special Christmas edition at Mundi Center’s Piazza. Rooted in the spirit of Igisope, the evening is designed for music lovers and cultural custodians who understand how deeply a song can shape identity and collective memory. At the centre of the night are two pillars of Rwandan music, Makanyaga Abdoul and Mavenge Sudi. Their voices have travelled across generations, sound tracking moments of joy, reflection and resilience in homes and public spaces alike. Together, they offer more than a performance. They bring back the melodies and stories that continue to define Rwandan musical heritage. The concert takes place Saturday, Dec. 20. Tickets are priced at 7,000 francs in advance and 10,000 francs at the door. BICU Christmas Cinema Night BICU brings the holiday spirit to Kimihurura with a cosy Christmas Cinema Night on Saturday, Dec. 20, starting at 5 p.m. The free-entry event blends classic films with food, music and a relaxed festive atmosphere. The evening includes screenings of “Home Alone” and “Waiting to Exhale,” group discounts on food and drinks, special sharing platters and jug combo deals. It is an easy, low-pressure way to gather friends, enjoy familiar holiday films and settle into the season together. Twese Christmas Market Step into Twese Christmas Market this weekend and discover a curated selection of local artisans offering unique creations, handcrafted gifts, and festive treasures designed to delight. Hosted by the Institut Français of Rwanda, the market brings together a vibrant, creative space perfect for celebrating community, sharing, and togetherness. The market runs Saturday, Dec. 20 (until 8 p.m.) and Sunday, Dec. 21, featuring fashion, décor, ceramics, festive treats, a kids’ corner, and surprises at every stall. Throughout the week, organizers will introduce the creators behind this special edition, giving visitors a chance to connect with the people who make it all possible. With crafts made with heart and experiences shared with joy, will you be stopping by to find your perfect holiday gift? Christmas Carols Concert 2025 The festive weekend continues on Sunday with the Chorale de Kigali Christmas Carols Concert 2025, a celebration centred on harmony, faith and the shared joy of the season. The concert takes place Dec. 21 at KCEV, Camp Kigali, bringing together choral excellence and orchestral depth in a setting designed for reflection and celebration. Known for its rich arrangements and emotionally resonant performances, Chorale de Kigali presents a program of classic and contemporary carols that speak to love, peace and unity. The evening is positioned as a family-friendly gathering and a musical pause amid the rush of the season. Doors open at 4 p.m., with the concert beginning at 6 p.m. Tickets are priced at 10,000 francs for regular admission, 20,000 francs for VIP access, and 250,000 francs for a table of six. Agahozo & Friends On Stage Music continues into the following week with Agahozo and Friends On Stage, a live concert celebrating the talents of students from Agahozo Shalom Youth Village alongside established Rwandan artistes. The line-up includes Aline Gahongayire, Juno Kizigenza, Ariel Wayz, Bahal! Ruth, the ASYV Band, Iconic Band, Seny Turner and DJ Snoop. Tickets are priced at 3,000 francs for students, 5,000 francs for general admission and 10,000 francs for VIP access. The concert takes place Monday, Dec. 22, from 6 to 9 p.m. at Zaria Court. This season, let The New Times be your guide to Kigali’s festive fun. Follow us for curated weekend picks, holiday happenings, and real-time news to keep your celebrations merry and bright.
