From East African musical traditions and R&B classics to Afrobeats parties, food festivals and a cake-sharing picnic, Kigali has plenty on offer this weekend, October 9–11. Whether you are looking for live music, a night of dancing or a relaxed Sunday afternoon outdoors, here are seven events to add to your weekend plans. ALSO READ: Six 2026 animated adventures worth adding to your watchlist Live Nyinshii Music lovers can kick off their weekend with Live Nyinshii, a musical evening curated by Kaya Byinshii that explores East African musical traditions and how they are passed down through generations. The performance blends traditional sounds with jazz, soul and musical experimentation. The line-up features Chacha Imfurikeye, Hassan Mahenge, Albert Toch, Nkuba Akoth Jamadi and other guest performers. The event takes place at the Centre Culturel Francophone du Rwanda (CCFR) on Friday, October 9, starting at 7 p.m. Tickets cost Rwf15,000, while CCFR members pay Rwf10,000. The event is open to audiences aged 10 and above. ALSO READ: Live Nyinshiii and the making of a shared music culture Strictly Soul R&B fans can head to Atelier du Vin on Friday for Strictly Soul, a party celebrating hits by some of the genre’s most celebrated artists, including Beyoncé, Usher and Miguel. International DJ Akio Kawahito will perform alongside Deejay June, DJ Sonia and DJ 72C, with S. Iraguha and 6ft2inches hosting the event. The party runs from 7 p.m. on Friday until 1 a.m. on Saturday. Tickets for the final advance-sale round cost Rwf25,000, while admission at the door is Rwf30,000. Entry is restricted to people aged 18 and above. Afro Beat Jollof Party takes centre stage at Atelier du Vin on Saturday, October 10, with the Afro Beat Jollof Party, an event bringing together West African jollof culture, music, food and a celebration of African identity. The party starts at 6 p.m. and runs until 2 a.m. on Sunday. Regular admission costs Rwf25,000. For groups seeking a more exclusive experience, a table for six costs Rwf1.5 million and includes six entry tags, a platter for six, Hennessy VS and Moët Nectar. A table for 10 costs Rwf2 million and includes 10 entry tags, a platter for 10, Veuve and Hennessy VSOP. Afro Piano Groove, Edition 5 Amapiano fans can head to Azzurri Club & Lounge on Saturday for the fifth edition of Afro Piano Groove, featuring the return of Queenchess K’Ganya. The event promises bass-heavy beats, signature Amapiano log drums and an energetic dance-floor atmosphere for fans of the South African-born genre. Doors open at 5 p.m., with tickets starting at Rwf10,000. TWESE at Mundi Center After a 10-month break, TWESE returns on Saturday with a night dedicated to AfroHouse music, bringing deep grooves and dance-driven rhythms to Kigali’s nightlife scene. The event takes place at Mundi Center, starting at 6 p.m. Regular tickets cost Rwf12,000, while VIP admission is priced at Rwf20,000. Mundi FoodFest For those seeking a more relaxed outing with family or friends, Mundi FoodFest offers an open-air experience at Mundi Center on Saturday, starting at noon. The festival brings together food stalls, independent fashion and music, giving visitors an opportunity to sample different culinary offerings, discover fashion and enjoy the outdoor atmosphere. Entry is free, making it an accessible option for anyone looking to explore food and fashion without paying an admission fee. Visitors can also extend their outing by attending TWESE at the same venue from 6 p.m. The Ultimate Cake Picnic opportunities, offering a relaxed alternative to the weekend’s nightlife events. Guests are required to bring a five-inch cake to share with other attendees. The picnic runs from noon to 6 p.m. Early-bird tickets cost Rwf15,000, while admission at the gate costs Rwf20,000. A cake-reservation option is also available for Rwf25,000. Organisers have made the requirement clear: no cake, no entry, subject to the terms of the reservation option. For more entertainment news, event updates and lifestyle coverage, follow The New Times across its social media platforms.
