Welcome to March. Humidity, heavy rain and warm evenings are the new normal, but that will not slow the city’s nightlife. If you are planning to get out this weekend, here are nine picks that promise music, laughs and community. ALSO READ: New film on ‘Umuganda’ premieres in Kigali Drunken Lecture: Reshaping Womanhood In observance of Women’s Month, Katina Kafe hosts a discussion and social evening on Friday, March 6, at 7 p.m. The event brings together conversation, food and networking to explore how women in Rwanda are redefining power and possibility. Tickets are Rwf5,000 and the night includes short talks, games and free shots. Bring a sister, bring pride, and come ready for some food for thought at Katina Kafe. Ahanad Takeover at Maison Noire Another Friday option comes courtesy of the Ahanad Takeover series, a campaign by the beverage brand Skol aimed at spotlighting rising creatives. This week’s edition lands at Maison Noire from 6 p.m. until late. The lineup brings together a mix of DJs and performers including Judy, Diez Dola, Patycope, DJ June, DJ Crush, Kem Lion and Divine. Listeners can also catch a preshow broadcast on Royal FM before the party shifts to the venue in Kicukiro. Entry is free, making it an easy stop if you are building a night out around music. Thank God It’s Funny This Friday, March 6, Uganda’s Patrick Salvado headlines a stacked comedy night at Kigali Universe. The lineup also features Babu, Hervé, Michael, Rusine, Arnold, Muhinde and GrihaUp, with music from Platy Wanyama. The show runs from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. Tickets are Rwf10,000 for general entry, Rwf20,000 for VIP and Rwf200,000 for a table of six, half of which is consumable. Muhazi Gospel Fest For those leaning toward a quieter Saturday plan, Muhazi Gospel Fest offers an outdoor worship gathering built around music and fellowship. The event takes place at Falcon Golf & Country Club and centres on performances led by gospel singer Rachel Uwineza. Organizers describe the day as a chance for believers to come together in a relaxed setting, surrounded by nature, while sharing moments of praise and reflection. The festival is scheduled for Saturday, March 7, and tickets cost Rwf20,000, which is redeemable at the venue. Holi26 at Sud Colour takes over the dance floor on Saturday afternoon as SUD Kigali hosts its Holi celebration starting at 2 p.m. Inspired by the Indian festival of colours, the gathering blends music, dancing and plenty of powdered colour thrown into the air as the party unfolds. DJ Lexx Lexx will handle the soundtrack for the afternoon while guests move between the dance floor and the open-air spaces. Entry is free, and colour powder will be available at the venue for those ready to fully join the celebration. Mabara Meza Festival III: Naguura Exhibit For a mix of art and environmental awareness, the Mabara Meza Festival III kicks off with the Naguura Exhibit on Saturday, March 7, at L’Espace, KG 297 ST. The exhibition highlights water life, plastic waste, and sustainable living through textile art by Maison Inkindi in collaboration with Ikome Vintages. Attendees can also enjoy live performances by Umudiho Collective and DJ Captiver, as well as a fashion pop-up featuring Kigali’s sustainable and circular brands, including Boho Dreams, Isimbi Handmade, and Bone Koboyi. Running from March 7 to 11, the exhibit offers an introduction to the festival’s themes while officially launching the Mabara Meza 2026 program. Visitors are encouraged to bring friends and their passion for culture. Iteka African Cultural Festival The 4th edition of the Iteka African Cultural Festival returns on Saturday, March 7, at Mundi Center, promising a day packed with music, dance, fashion, and art from across the continent. This year’s theme, “Echoes of Motherland Heritage: Tradition, Innovation, and Social Transformation,” celebrates Africa’s creativity while highlighting the role of culture in shaping society. Attendees can expect performances that blend traditional and contemporary styles, food and drinks, networking opportunities, and an exhibition showcasing bold artistic expression. Tickets are Rwf5,000, 10,000, 25,000 for vendors, and 30,000 for sponsors, all consumable. Special CarFree Day Kigali Car Free Day this Sunday, March 8, will be extra special as it coincides with International Women’s Day. From 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. at KCC-Kigali Heights, the Mass Sport CarFree Day will celebrate the strength, resilience, and leadership of women and girls across Rwanda. From mothers and daughters to athletes, entrepreneurs, and community leaders, every woman’s contribution matters. Participants are invited to run, cycle, or simply join in solidarity, championing equality and celebrating progress. Activities will take place across Kigali, offering something for everyone. Bring your energy, your family, and your heart, and honor women in action. Book Launch: Overcoming Confusion Confusion can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to define your path. In Overcoming Confusion, Dr. Alfred Gatete shares faith, personal stories, and practical guidance to help readers find clarity, purpose, and direction. The book launch takes place Sunday, March 8, at 6 p.m. at Intare Arena in Gisozi. Entry costs Rwf15,000 per person or Rwf25,000 for couples. 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.
