January is rarely framed as a party month, but Kigali has never been one for extended downtime. As the aftertaste of December’s social marathon remains, the city’s social calendar has quietly reset, offering a steady return to music, cinema and interactive culture. Whether the plan leans understated or slightly indulgent, the city offers plenty of ways to reenter the weekend at your own pace. Here are a few considered picks worth your time in Kigali. KGL Cine Corner Movie Night For a measured start to the weekend, KGL Cine Corner returns with its Friday movie night on Jan. 16 from 8 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. at Katina’s Café, located at KG8, House 31. The evening’s screening is “One Battle After Another,” Paul Thomas Anderson’s latest action epic from Warner Bros., starring Leonardo DiCaprio alongside Chase Infiniti, Benicio Del Toro, Sean Penn and Teyana Taylor. Entry is Rwf6,000. Atelier du Vibe Atelier du Vin hosts an evening designed for an unhurried but energetic night out on Friday, Jan. 16, starting at 5 p.m. Known for its controlled atmosphere and social crowd, Atelier du Vibe pairs curated DJ sets with an easygoing setting. Music blends will be provided by DJ Vanss and DJ Inno. The event is powered by Desperados and is well suited for those looking to transition from after-work drinks into a longer night without rushing the mood. Rwanda Cue Kings Tournament For a weekend that favours competition over spectacle, the Rwanda Cue Kings tournament unfolds across three days at Mundi Center. Phase One takes place Friday, Jan. 16, at 6 p.m., followed by Phase Two on Saturday, Jan. 17, at 2 p.m., with the final phase set for Sunday, Jan. 18, also at 2 p.m. Teams from across the city compete for prize money, with Rwf1 million awarded to the champion, Rwf700,000 to the first runner-up and Rwf400,000 to the second runner-up. Daily entrance is Rwf5,000, including two soft drinks or one beer, making it an accessible option for spectators who enjoy strategy, skill and a steady pace. France Mpundu in Concert Fans of Secret Story Africa will recognize France Mpundu as Rwanda’s standout finalist. This Friday, Jan. 16, she returns to the Kigali stage for a live concert at the Francophone Cultural Centre of Rwanda, located on KG 624 St. The performance begins at 7:30 p.m. and offers an intimate setting to experience her music beyond television. Tickets are priced at Rwf10,000. Kids Afro Hip-Hop Dance Class Families looking to add movement to the weekend can consider the Kid's Afro Hip-Hop Dance Class at the Centre Culturel Francophone du Rwanda. Designed for children ages 7 to 12, the class introduces Afro and Hip-Hop dance through rhythm, coordination and creative movement. Led by Honore Hartel, the session is about confidence, musicality and teamwork in a supportive environment. The class is open to all levels, whether participants are new to dance or already comfortable on the floor. Pricing is Rwf8,000 for one child, with a reduced group rate of Rwf6,000. Heritage in Motion Exhibition Art takes centre stage on Saturday, Jan. 17, with the opening night of Heritage in Motion, an exhibition exploring cultural roots and contemporary expression. Hosted at L’Espace, KN 297 St., the show brings together works by six artists: Ismart Ley, Jomo Dry, Kefa Oyikemi, Edocrp’art, Caleb Muzusa and Luzindya. The opening begins at 6:30 p.m., offering an evening suited to slow viewing and conversation. The exhibition runs through Jan. 30, allowing visitors to return beyond opening night. Kigali Car Free Day The city closes the weekend with the first Car Free Day of 2026 on Sunday, Jan. 18, from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. Public sports activities will take place across multiple locations, including the KCC Roundabout, IPRC Kigali in Kicukiro, ULK Gisozi in Gasabo and Kigali Pelé Stadium in Nyarugenge. The initiative invites residents to begin the year with an active routine, encouraging movement, accessibility and collective well-being in shared public spaces. There is no single way to spend a weekend in Kigali, and that is the point. These selections favour variety over volume, offering room to engage on your own terms. Stay in the loop with The New Times for the latest from Kigali’s entertainment scene and breaking news. Follow us on social media for curated weekend picks and real-time updates.
