What to do in Kigali this weekend: Concerts, peace marathon, and day parties

Eid Mubarak, Kigali — and what a weekend to kick things off. For the city’s social set, we’re back with your regular dose of curated outings and cultural highlights. Whether you're chasing live music, powerful theater, or pulse-raising marathons, these six events offer something for every mood and pace. ALSO READ: The Ben, Meddy to rock Rwanda Convention 2025 in Dallas Let’s dive into what’s happening around town. Kigali International Peace Marathon Rwanda’s most symbolic road race returns this Sunday, June 8, with starting lines for Half and Full Marathons drawn in front of Sports View Hotel. The Full Marathon takes off at 7 a.m., followed by the Half Marathon at 8:20 a.m. The Fun Run for Peace will start at 8:30 a.m. at Zigama CSS. Launched in 2005, the Kigali International Peace Marathon is more than a sporting event—it’s a national statement of unity. Held annually in the capital, the marathon is recognized by World Athletics and is a proud member of the Association of International Marathons and Distance Races. The race attracts elite athletes and everyday runners alike, with participants from over 20 countries tackling Kigali’s high-altitude challenge. At over 1,500 meters above sea level, the city’s thin air adds an extra layer of endurance to the course. As in past years, proceeds will support charitable causes in Rwanda. Plan your route accordingly as designated roads for the marathon event (Nyarutarama, Kimihurura, KCC, Kisimenti, Prince House, Sonatube, Kimironko) will be closed from Saturday, June 7, at 10:30 p.m until Sunday, June 8, at 4:30 p.m. Jules Sentore Live in Concert Traditional music takes center stage this Friday, June 6, as Jules Sentore brings his distinctive gakondosound to the Centre Culturel Francophone. Known for his deep respect for Rwandan roots and his signature intore flair, Sentore will unveil his new album in a celebratory evening of rhythm and dance. The show begins at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are Rwf 10,000. Funeral Eulogies at L'Espace Arriving in Kigali after stirring performances in Goma and Bukavu, “Funeral Eulogies” (Eulogies Funèbres) is a hauntingly poetic stage production that captures the anguish of a continent in flux. Written by G. Mukubito and starring actresses Prisca Skabangu and Ninette Barachi, the play mourns the spiritual and generational losses facing Africa in the wake of displacement and modern disconnection. The performance is scheduled for Sunday, June 7, at L'Espace. Admission is free. Soulful Hills at Barafous Garden If you're looking to dance your way into summer, Groove Sundays is bringing its first edition to Barafous Garden in Nyandungu this Sunday, June 8. Titled “Soulful Hills,” the daytime party runs from 1 p.m. to 10 p.m. and promises a full day of curated vibes. Expect DJ sets from Lamper, Inno, Pyfo, GRVNDLVNG, and Selekta Faba, plus extras like BBQ, games, sip-and-paint sessions, and even a mobile barber. The theme? Recreate a celebrity’s summer look. Entry is Rwf 7,500. Sato Passport at Kana Lounge DJ Kan and DJ Ever team up this Saturday, June 7, for Sato Passport at Kana Cocktails & Lounge. The party kicks off at 5 p.m. at KABC’s second-floor bar with continental beats, cocktails, and pizza specials keeping the vibe going all night. Rwanda Cue Kings Championship Finals The stakes are high, and the cue sticks are ready. The Rwanda Cue Kings Championship Finals will be held Sunday, June 8, at Mundi Centre Piazza. The headliner: DRUMS vs. SNIPERS, in a one-match, winner-takes-all battle for a grand prize of Rwf 700,000. The third-place match between KILIMANJARO and RGP kicks off the event, with matches running from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. Entry is Rwf 5,000. Hosted by the Rwanda Billiards Federation and Funky Games, the competition has drawn plenty of fans. The only question now is: who’s taking the crown?

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What to do in Kigali this weekend: Concerts, peace marathon, and day parties