Summer Festivals in Rwanda: What Not to Miss
When the dry season rolls in from June to August, Rwanda becomes an even more vibrant destination filled with music, dance, art, and culinary delights. Summer is not just about sunny skies and beautiful landscapes—it’s also festival season. For both locals and tourists, this is the best time to explore Rwanda’s cultural heartbeat through a range of colorful festivals. From high-energy music events to intimate traditional celebrations, Rwanda’s summer festivals offer unforgettable experiences.
This blog will guide you through the most anticipated summer festivals in Rwanda, providing insights into what each event entails, how to prepare, and why you shouldn’t miss them.
1. KigaliUp Music Festival
When: Late July
Where: Kigali, typically in Amahoro Stadium or Kigali Conference and Exhibition Village
Overview: KigaliUp is Rwanda’s premier music festival, attracting artists from across Africa and beyond. It’s a celebration of contemporary and traditional music, offering everything from Afrobeat to reggae, hip-hop to folk. The event spans two days and draws thousands of music lovers.
Highlights:
- Live performances by top Rwandan artists like Knowless, Bruce Melodie, and local bands
- International headliners
- Food and craft stalls showcasing Rwandan cuisine and artistry
Travel Tips:
- Book tickets and accommodations early as this is a popular event
- Arrive early for the best stage views
- Stay hydrated and wear sun protection
2. Ubumuntu Arts Festival
When: Mid-July
Where: Kigali Genocide Memorial Amphitheater, Gisozi
Overview: Ubumuntu, meaning “humanity” in Kinyarwanda, is a performing arts festival that seeks to promote peace, unity, and healing. Founded in 2015, this festival brings together artists from all over the world for performances that speak to the human condition. It’s a deeply emotional and thought-provoking event.
Highlights:
- Theatre, dance, poetry, and music performances
- Workshops and panel discussions on social justice and human rights
- Strong focus on storytelling and cultural exchange
Travel Tips:
- Ideal for travelers interested in Rwanda’s post-genocide healing journey
- Bring tissues and an open heart—some performances can be intense
- Consider attending with a local guide or group for context
3. Rwanda Cultural Fashion Show
When: August
Where: Kigali Serena Hotel or similar high-profile venues
Overview: This fashion-forward festival showcases Rwandan and African designers, models, and artisans. It celebrates the beauty of traditional and modern African fashion while promoting young talent in the industry.
Highlights:
- Runway shows featuring designers from Rwanda and neighboring countries
- Pop-up shops and exhibitions
- Networking events with fashion influencers and entrepreneurs
Travel Tips:
- Dress your best—this is a glamorous event
- Follow the event’s social media pages for updates and ticket info
- Great opportunity for fashion bloggers and photographers
4. Kigali Food Festival
When: June
Where: Rebero or Kimihurura, popular foodie hubs in Kigali
Overview: The Kigali Food Festival is a paradise for food lovers. The event brings together chefs, restaurants, and food entrepreneurs to showcase Rwanda’s culinary diversity. Expect a mix of traditional Rwandan dishes and international flavors.
Highlights:
- Food tasting booths from Kigali’s top eateries
- Cooking competitions and live demos
- Family-friendly activities and live music
Travel Tips:
- Come hungry and pace yourself
- Some booths may accept cash only, so carry small change
- Ideal for discovering new restaurants to visit later
5. Rwanda International Film Festival (RIFC)
When: July
Where: Multiple venues in Kigali and other cities
Overview: RIFC celebrates African cinema and encourages local filmmakers. It offers a platform for storytelling through the lens of Rwandan and African directors. From documentaries to feature films, this festival is both entertaining and educational.
Highlights:
- Screenings of award-winning films
- Q&A sessions with directors and actors
- Film workshops and panel discussions
Travel Tips:
- Check the schedule early and plan your screenings
- Some venues are outdoors—bring a jacket for chilly evenings
- Good chance to connect with Rwanda’s creative scene
6. Itorero Cultural Festival
When: August
Where: Various locations, including Huye and Musanze
Overview: Inspired by the traditional Rwandan education system known as Itorero, this festival revives cultural practices, dances, and oral traditions. It is a grassroots celebration that fosters pride in Rwandan identity.
Highlights:
- Traditional dance and drumming performances
- Storytelling sessions
- Local cuisine and artisanal crafts
Travel Tips:
- Travel with a local or a guide for translation and cultural context
- Don’t be shy to participate in dances and workshops
- Great for cultural immersion and rural tourism
7. Kwita Izina Gorilla Naming Ceremony
When: End of August or early September
Where: Volcanoes National Park, Kinigi
Overview: Though technically just outside the summer range, Kwita Izina is one of Rwanda’s most iconic cultural events. Modeled after the Rwandan tradition of naming children, this festival names newly born mountain gorillas and celebrates conservation.
Highlights:
- Gorilla naming ceremony with local and international celebrities
- Cultural performances and conservation talks
- Guided tours in Volcanoes National Park
Travel Tips:
- Book early for both the event and any gorilla trekking tours
- Pack warm clothes—the Volcanoes region can be chilly
- Combine this with a visit to nearby Musanze attractions
Final Thoughts
Summer in Rwanda is a time of celebration, connection, and culture. Whether you’re dancing at a concert, tasting your way through a food festival, or watching powerful theater under the stars, these festivals offer unique windows into Rwanda’s identity. They blend the old with the new, the local with the international, and the joyous with the reflective.
So if you’re planning a trip to Rwanda between June and August, make sure to time your visit around one (or more) of these unforgettable events. Your summer will be filled with rhythm, color, and community—the true essence of Rwanda.
Have you attended any of these festivals in Rwanda? Share your experience in the comments or tag us on Instagram @SeeRwanda to be featured!
