Nairobi Festivals & Events Calendar: What's On Month by Month (2026)
Welcome to Nairobi, Kenya! A vibrant city brimming with culture, history, and breathtaking landscapes. If you're planning a family trip to Nairobi in 2026, you're in for a treat. This comprehensive calendar highlights the best festivals and events throughout the year, ensuring you experience the very best Nairobi has to offer. From bustling city celebrations to authentic local experiences, there's something for everyone. Get ready to mark your calendars and create unforgettable family memories!
January
January in Nairobi is typically warm and dry, making it a pleasant time to visit and enjoy outdoor events.
New Year's Celebrations (January 1st)
What Happens: Nairobi rings in the New Year with vibrant celebrations. Expect fireworks displays, live music performances, and street parties across the city. Many hotels and restaurants host special New Year's Eve dinners and parties.
Where to Go: Popular spots include Uhuru Park, KICC (Kenyatta International Conference Centre) grounds, and various rooftop bars and restaurants in Westlands and Upper Hill.
Ticket Costs: Free for public celebrations; New Year's Eve dinners and parties range from KES 5,000 to KES 20,000 (USD $40-$160) per person, depending on the venue.
How to Participate: Book your New Year's Eve dinner or party well in advance. Arrive early at Uhuru Park to secure a good viewing spot for the fireworks.
Insider Tips: Traffic can be heavy on New Year's Eve. Consider using ride-sharing services or public transportation. Many restaurants offer special kids' menus for New Year's Eve dinners.
Hotel Price Impact: Hotel prices tend to be higher during the New Year period. Book accommodations well in advance to secure the best rates. Expect to pay 20-30% more than usual.
Nairobi Restaurant Week (Late January/Early February)
What Happens: A culinary extravaganza featuring discounted prix fixe menus at some of Nairobi's top restaurants. It’s a great opportunity to sample diverse cuisines at affordable prices.
Where to Go: Participating restaurants are located throughout Nairobi, including Westlands, Karen, and Kilimani. Check the official Nairobi Restaurant Week website for a list of participating restaurants.
Ticket Costs: Prix fixe menus typically range from KES 1,500 to KES 4,000 (USD $12-$32) per person for lunch and KES 2,500 to KES 6,000 (USD $20-$48) per person for dinner.
How to Participate: Make reservations at participating restaurants in advance, as they tend to fill up quickly.
Insider Tips: Check restaurant reviews and menus online before making reservations. Consider trying restaurants that specialize in Kenyan cuisine for an authentic culinary experience.
Hotel Price Impact: Minimal impact on hotel prices.
February
February remains warm and dry, offering ideal weather for outdoor activities and events.
Valentine's Day Celebrations (February 14th)
What Happens: Nairobi celebrates Valentine's Day with romantic dinners, special events, and couples' packages at hotels and resorts. Many restaurants offer themed menus and live music.
Where to Go: Upscale restaurants and hotels throughout Nairobi, particularly in areas like Karen, Gigiri, and Lavington.
Ticket Costs: Special Valentine's Day dinners range from KES 4,000 to KES 15,000 (USD $32-$120) per person.
How to Participate: Book your Valentine's Day dinner or event well in advance, as popular venues tend to sell out quickly.
Insider Tips: Consider a romantic getaway to a game lodge near Nairobi for a unique Valentine's Day experience. The Tribe Hotel and Giraffe Manor often have special offers.
Hotel Price Impact: Hotel prices may increase slightly around Valentine's Day. Book accommodations in advance to secure the best rates.
Kenya International Film Festival (Late February)
What Happens: Showcases local and international films, documentaries, and short films. Includes screenings, workshops, and networking events for filmmakers and film enthusiasts.
Where to Go: Various cinemas and cultural centers throughout Nairobi, including the Alliance Française and the Goethe-Institut.
Ticket Costs: Individual film screenings range from KES 500 to KES 1,000 (USD $4-$8). Festival passes are also available, ranging from KES 2,000 to KES 5,000 (USD $16-$40).
How to Participate: Check the festival's website for the schedule of screenings and events. Purchase tickets online or at the venue.
Insider Tips: Attend Q&A sessions with filmmakers to gain insights into the creative process. Explore the diverse range of films from across Africa and beyond.
Hotel Price Impact: Minimal impact on hotel prices.
March
March marks the start of the long rainy season in Nairobi. While it may rain, the city still offers plenty to see and do.
Nairobi Innovation Week (Early March)
What Happens: A week-long event showcasing innovation and technology in Kenya. Features exhibitions, workshops, and conferences on various topics, including entrepreneurship, technology, and sustainable development.
Where to Go: University of Nairobi and other venues around the city.
Ticket Costs: Some events are free, while others require registration fees ranging from KES 1,000 to KES 5,000 (USD $8-$40).
How to Participate: Register online for workshops and conferences. Visit the exhibitions to learn about the latest innovations in Kenya.
Insider Tips: Network with entrepreneurs and innovators from across the country. Attend workshops to gain new skills and knowledge.
Hotel Price Impact: Minimal impact on hotel prices.
St. Patrick's Day Celebrations (March 17th)
What Happens: Celebrated by the Irish community and others in Nairobi. Expect pub crawls, live music, and themed parties at Irish pubs and restaurants.
Where to Go: Irish pubs in Westlands and Kilimani, such as The Galway and The Lord Erroll.
Ticket Costs: Some pubs may charge an entrance fee ranging from KES 500 to KES 1,000 (USD $4-$8).
How to Participate: Dress in green and join the festivities at local Irish pubs.
Insider Tips: Arrive early to secure a spot at popular pubs. Enjoy traditional Irish food and drinks.
Hotel Price Impact: Minimal impact on hotel prices.
April
April is typically rainy in Nairobi, but don't let that deter you. Indoor activities and cultural events abound.
Easter Celebrations (Variable, Usually in April)
What Happens: Easter is a significant religious holiday in Kenya. Churches hold special services, and families gather for meals and celebrations. Many hotels offer Easter brunch and activities for children.
Where to Go: Churches throughout Nairobi, hotels with Easter brunch offerings.
Ticket Costs: Free to attend church services. Easter brunch prices range from KES 3,000 to KES 8,000 (USD $24-$64) per person.
How to Participate: Attend church services, enjoy Easter brunch with your family, and participate in Easter egg hunts and other activities.
Insider Tips: Book your Easter brunch reservation in advance. Consider attending a traditional Kenyan Easter service to experience local culture.
Hotel Price Impact: Hotel prices may increase slightly during the Easter weekend. Book accommodations in advance to secure the best rates.
Rhino Charge (Late April)
What Happens: A unique and challenging off-road motorsport competition that raises funds for rhino conservation. Teams navigate through rugged terrain using only a map and compass.
Where to Go: The location varies each year, but it's typically held in a remote area outside of Nairobi.
Ticket Costs: Spectator tickets range from KES 2,000 to KES 5,000 (USD $16-$40).
How to Participate: Spectators can watch the competition and support the participating teams. Consider volunteering to help with the event.
Insider Tips: Wear appropriate clothing and footwear for outdoor activities. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water.
Hotel Price Impact: Hotel prices in Nairobi are not significantly affected, but accommodations near the Rhino Charge location may be limited.
May
May continues the long rainy season, but the city remains vibrant with indoor events and cultural experiences.
International Labour Day (May 1st)
What Happens: A public holiday celebrating workers' rights. Many businesses are closed, and there may be parades and rallies.
Where to Go: Uhuru Park and other public spaces.
Ticket Costs: Free.
How to Participate: Attend public rallies or enjoy a day off with your family.
Insider Tips: Be aware of potential traffic disruptions due to parades and rallies.
Hotel Price Impact: Minimal impact on hotel prices.
Africa Nouveau Festival (Mid-May)
What Happens: A celebration of contemporary African music, art, fashion, and culture. Features live music performances, art exhibitions, fashion shows, and food vendors.
Where to Go: Ngong Racecourse or similar outdoor venues.
Ticket Costs: Festival tickets range from KES 3,000 to KES 8,000 (USD $24-$64), depending on the duration and VIP access.
How to Participate: Purchase tickets online or at the gate. Enjoy the live music, art, and fashion on display.
Insider Tips: Wear comfortable shoes and clothing for outdoor activities. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water.
Hotel Price Impact: Hotel prices may increase slightly during the festival weekend. Book accommodations in advance to secure the best rates.
June
June marks the end of the long rainy season, with gradually decreasing rainfall. The weather starts to become more pleasant for outdoor activities.
Madaraka Day (June 1st)
What Happens: A national holiday commemorating the day Kenya attained internal self-governance. Expect public celebrations, parades, and cultural performances.
Where to Go: Nyayo National Stadium and other public spaces.
Ticket Costs: Free to attend public celebrations.
How to Participate: Attend the public celebrations and enjoy the cultural performances.
Insider Tips: Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot for the parade.
Hotel Price Impact: Minimal impact on hotel prices.
Nairobi Pride Week (Late June)
What Happens: A celebration of LGBTQ+ rights and culture. Includes parades, film screenings, workshops, and parties.
Where to Go: Various venues throughout Nairobi, including Uhuru Park and LGBTQ+-friendly establishments.
Ticket Costs: Some events are free, while others may require a small entrance fee.
How to Participate: Attend the parade, film screenings, and parties. Show your support for the LGBTQ+ community.
Insider Tips: Check the Nairobi Pride website for the schedule of events and locations.
Hotel Price Impact: Minimal impact on hotel prices.
July
July is typically cool and dry, making it a popular time to visit Nairobi. The weather is ideal for outdoor activities and wildlife safaris.
Safaricom Jazz Festival (Early July)
What Happens: A world-class jazz festival featuring local and international jazz artists. Includes live music performances, workshops, and masterclasses.
Where to Go: Carnivore Grounds or similar outdoor venues.
Ticket Costs: Festival tickets range from KES 3,000 to KES 10,000 (USD $24-$80), depending on the duration and VIP access.
How to Participate: Purchase tickets online or at the gate. Enjoy the live jazz music and workshops.
Insider Tips: Bring a blanket or lawn chair for comfortable seating. Arrive early to secure a good spot near the stage.
Hotel Price Impact: Hotel prices may increase slightly during the festival weekend. Book accommodations in advance to secure the best rates.
Eid al-Adha (Variable, Usually in July)
What Happens: A significant Islamic holiday commemorating Abraham's willingness to sacrifice his son. Mosques hold special prayers, and families gather for feasts.
Where to Go: Mosques throughout Nairobi, such as Jamia Mosque.
Ticket Costs: Free to attend mosque prayers.
How to Participate: Observe the holiday with Muslim friends and neighbors. Be respectful of their traditions and customs.
Insider Tips: Many Muslim families offer food to neighbors and friends during Eid. It's a gesture of goodwill to accept their hospitality.
Hotel Price Impact: Minimal impact on hotel prices.
August
August remains cool and dry, making it an excellent time for wildlife safaris and outdoor adventures.
Magharibi Culture Fest (Mid-August)
What Happens: Celebrates the rich cultural heritage of Western Kenya. Features traditional music, dance, food, and crafts.
Where to Go: Bomas of Kenya or similar cultural centers.
Ticket Costs: Entrance fees range from KES 1,000 to KES 3,000 (USD $8-$24).
How to Participate: Attend the festival and enjoy the cultural performances, food, and crafts.
Insider Tips: Learn a few phrases in local languages to enhance your cultural experience.
Hotel Price Impact: Minimal impact on hotel prices.
Total Motor Show (Late August)
What Happens: A showcase of the latest cars, motorcycles, and automotive accessories. Includes exhibitions, test drives, and demonstrations.
Where to Go: Kenyatta International Conference Centre (KICC).
Ticket Costs: Entrance fees range from KES 500 to KES 1,000 (USD $4-$8).
How to Participate: Visit the exhibition and explore the latest automotive innovations.
Insider Tips: Attend the test drive sessions to experience the performance of different vehicles.
Hotel Price Impact: Minimal impact on hotel prices.
September
September marks the start of the short rainy season in Nairobi, with gradually increasing rainfall.
Kenya Music Week (Early September)
What Happens: A celebration of Kenyan music and culture. Features live music performances, workshops, and industry networking events.
Where to Go: Various venues throughout Nairobi, including clubs, concert halls, and cultural centers.
Ticket Costs: Concert tickets range from KES 500 to KES 3,000 (USD $4-$24), depending on the artist and venue.
How to Participate: Attend the concerts and workshops to discover new Kenyan music and artists.
Insider Tips: Check local listings for concert schedules and venues.
Hotel Price Impact: Minimal impact on hotel prices.
Maulid al-Nabi (Variable, Usually in September)
What Happens: Celebrates the birthday of the Prophet Muhammad. Mosques hold special prayers, and families gather for feasts.
Where to Go: Mosques throughout Nairobi, such as Jamia Mosque.
Ticket Costs: Free to attend mosque prayers.
How to Participate: Observe the holiday with Muslim friends and neighbors. Be respectful of their traditions and customs.
Insider Tips: Many Muslim families offer food to neighbors and friends during Maulid. It's a gesture of goodwill to accept their hospitality.
Hotel Price Impact: Minimal impact on hotel prices.
October
October is typically rainy in Nairobi, but the city still offers plenty of indoor activities and cultural events.
Nairobi International Book Fair (Late September/Early October)
What Happens: A celebration of literature and books. Features book exhibitions, author talks, workshops, and literary events.
Where to Go: Sarit Centre Expo Hall or similar venues.
Ticket Costs: Entrance fees range from KES 200 to KES 500 (USD $1.60-$4).
How to Participate: Visit the book fair and browse the exhibitions. Attend author talks and workshops to learn more about literature.
Insider Tips: Look for special deals and discounts on books at the fair.
Hotel Price Impact: Minimal impact on hotel prices.
Diwali Celebrations (Variable, Usually in October/November)
What Happens: The Hindu festival of lights, celebrated by the Indian community in Nairobi. Expect colorful decorations, fireworks displays, and traditional feasts.
Where to Go: Hindu temples in Nairobi, such as the Shree Sanatan Dharma Sabha Temple. Also, residential areas with large Indian communities like Parklands and Ngara.
Ticket Costs: Free to attend temple prayers and public celebrations.
How to Participate: Observe the holiday with Hindu friends and neighbors. Be respectful of their traditions and customs.
Insider Tips: Many Indian families offer sweets and snacks to neighbors and friends during Diwali. It's a gesture of goodwill to accept their hospitality.
Hotel Price Impact: Minimal impact on hotel prices.
November
November continues the short rainy season, with occasional showers throughout the month.
Storymoja Festival (Mid-November)
What Happens: A celebration of storytelling and literature. Features author talks, workshops, performances, and children's activities.
Where to Go: Nairobi National Museum and other cultural centers.
Ticket Costs: Festival passes range from KES 2,000 to KES 5,000 (USD $16-$40), depending on the duration and VIP access.
How to Participate: Purchase tickets online or at the gate. Attend the author talks, workshops, and performances.
Insider Tips: Bring your children to the festival for engaging storytelling sessions and activities.
Hotel Price Impact: Minimal impact on hotel prices.
Nairobi Art Fair (Late November)
What Happens: Showcases contemporary art from across Africa. Features exhibitions, artist talks, and workshops.
Where to Go: The Alchemist Bar or similar venues.
Ticket Costs: Entrance fees range from KES 500 to KES 1,000 (USD $4-$8).
How to Participate: Visit the art fair and explore the exhibitions. Attend artist talks and workshops to learn more about contemporary African art.
Insider Tips: Purchase artwork directly from the artists and support the local art scene.
Hotel Price Impact: Minimal impact on hotel prices.
December
December marks the start of the dry season in Nairobi, with sunny skies and pleasant weather.
Jamhuri Day (December 12th)
What Happens: A national holiday commemorating Kenya's independence. Expect public celebrations, parades, and cultural performances.
Where to Go: Nyayo National Stadium and other public spaces.
Ticket Costs: Free to attend public celebrations.
How to Participate: Attend the public celebrations and enjoy the cultural performances.
Insider Tips: Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot for the parade.
Hotel Price Impact: Minimal impact on hotel prices.
Christmas Celebrations (December 25th)
What Happens: Christmas is a significant holiday in Kenya, celebrated with church services, family gatherings, and festive meals. Many hotels offer Christmas brunch and activities for children.
Where to Go: Churches throughout Nairobi, hotels with Christmas brunch offerings, and residential areas with Christmas decorations.
Ticket Costs: Free to attend church services. Christmas brunch prices range from KES 4,000 to KES 10,000 (USD $32-$80) per person.
How to Participate: Attend church services, enjoy Christmas brunch with your family, and exchange gifts.
Insider Tips: Book your Christmas brunch reservation in advance. Consider attending a traditional Kenyan Christmas service to experience local culture.
Hotel Price Impact: Hotel prices may increase slightly during the Christmas season. Book accommodations in advance to secure the best rates.
Holiday Markets (December)
What Happens: Numerous holiday markets pop up throughout Nairobi in December, offering unique gifts, crafts, and festive treats.
Where to Go: Check local listings for holiday market locations, which may include shopping malls, parks, and community centers.
Ticket Costs: Entrance fees may range from KES 100 to KES 500 (USD $0.80-$4).
How to Participate: Visit the holiday markets and browse the stalls for unique gifts and crafts.
Insider Tips: Bargain with vendors for the best prices. Enjoy the festive atmosphere and support local artisans.
Hotel Price Impact: Minimal impact on hotel prices.
Nairobi offers a diverse range of festivals and events throughout the year, catering to various interests and preferences. Whether you're interested in culture, music, art, or food, you're sure to find something to enjoy in this vibrant city. Plan your trip accordingly and create unforgettable memories with your family in Nairobi!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions about attending festivals and events in Nairobi: