Nairobi’s cultural mix blends traditional tribal art with modern expressions, creating a captivating fusion. Whether you’re enchanted by craftworks or fascinated by contemporary murals and visual arts, the city is an endless canvas of inspiration. We’ve handpicked the finest of Nairobi’s artistic and cultural gems. Explore our articles for an insider’s guide to the heart of Nairobi’s art scene.
From 26–29 June 2025, Nairobi Litfest—also known as NBO LitFest—is back for its fourth edition, transformed into a dynamic “Festival of Ideas.”
There is nothing passive about the work of Swift9. It does not sit still; it moves even while fixed to walls. His art brims with kinetic energy; energetic, experimental, and strange.
Many of us are searching for something deeper. A sense of balance. A breath of peace in the middle of life’s constant motion. We rush between work commitments, family obligations and social expectations. In the quiet moments we sometimes realise how much we long to feel whole.
4 – 6 July 2025. Dance Life Festival 2025 is set to electrify Nairobi, featuring over 30 professional dancers, 5 international acts, and a full weekend of movement and music.
Since its inception in 2020, Dance Life Festival has been amplifying Kenya’s dance scene, bringing together genres, cultures, and powerful stories told through rhythm and motion.
In our fast-paced world where stress and anxiety often feel like constants, many people are rediscovering the healing impact of prayer and belief.
Start A Library Trust (SAL) is a homegrown non-profit that’s quietly revolutionizing access to reading in Kenyan public schools.
June is upon us & we’ve rounded up the art exhibitions happening iN Nairobi this month. As usual, keep an eye on our weekly and weekend guides for more last minute events as they come in!
Spirituality Isn’t soft. It Is fierce, and if you access it, it will change you
Wendy Njoroge reviews the enigmatic novel: The Incredible Dreams of Garba Dakaskus by Umar Abubakar Sidi
A play by the renowned, late Ngugi Wa Thiongo, staged by Nairobi Performing Arts Studio and directed by Stuart Nash.
Mbithi’s work, currently at Munyu Space, speaks fluently in the visual language of vulnerability, pain, and endurance.
In a world that rarely slows down, our minds are constantly on. From early morning alarms to never-ending notifications, the modern brain is in a state of perpetual motion. Yet just like our bodies need rest, movement, and nourishment, so too does our brain.
Njenga Ngugi’s exhibition at Kamene Cultural Centre is one of darkness, catharsis and vulnerability.
In today’s fast-paced world, wellness is often misunderstood as a luxury — but for the modern man, it’s a necessity. True wellness isn’t just about hitting the gym or eating clean. It’s about aligning the mind, body, and spirit
Dance Centre Kenya (DCK), invites audiences to experience the heartwarming story of Annie, the beloved Broadway musical that has captured hearts for generations, performed in Nairobi at the Kenya National Theatre.
Just like our bodies carry energy, so do our physical spaces. And when these spaces become cluttered — energetically or physically — they can block the flow of abundance, joy, and opportunity in our lives.
Africa Soft Power Summit 2025: Nairobi at the Crossroads of Culture, Capital, and Global Influence
From Nairobi to Bradford, Blankets & Wine crosses borders to amplify African creativity on a global stage.
Dahomey is a haunting, elegiac documentary that confronts the long shadows of colonial theft—and the spiritual weight of return. iN REVIEWS.
As usual we need a mid-month update to keep you up on the art happenings iN Nairobi… Scroll down to see the events & exhibitions that have been announced since the last update…
Sheila Bayley’s art is more than just visual expression—it’s a deeply personal exploration of identity, belonging, and healing.
Just like our bodies carry energy, so do our physical spaces. And when these spaces become cluttered — energetically or physically — they can block the flow of abundance, joy, and opportunity in our lives.
Review of a group exhibition by Sasa Fellows: Joel Lukhovi, Atieno Sachy, Precious Narotso, Wallace Juma & Sammy Mutinda, curated by Niklas Obermann.
In this edition of Soma Nami’s Books in Review, Wendy Njoroge reviews Love, Marry, Kill by South African author Zukiswa Wanner.
Afrika House is a creative space that embodies the kind of intentionality often missing in urban landscapes.
In today’s fast-paced world, wellness is often misunderstood as a luxury — but for the modern man, it’s a necessity. True wellness isn’t just about hitting the gym or eating clean. It’s about aligning the mind, body, and spirit
Anthony Muisyo’s compelling exhibition Posta (Pervasive whispers) encourages the viewer to open their eyes to what’s often overlooked, yet right in front of us, as we walk through the city.
SKETCHY AFRICANS: Known for his work on Country Queen and Pepeta, Mbaya takes a bold leap into comedy with a film that combines humor, cultural critique, and relatable storytelling.
Step into the heart of Victorian London as the Braeburn Players bring to life Lionel Bart’s timeless musical, Oliver!, at Braeburn Theatre, Gitanga Road this weekend and next.
The British Council announced the launch of the “UK/Kenya Season 2025”, a cross-cultural programme designed to strengthen ties between Kenya and the UK through a wide range of artistic and educational exchanges.
Get ready to immerse yourself in the creative pulse of Nairobi! The city is buzzing with an electric mix of art exhibitions, gallery openings, and pop-up showcases that celebrate the bold, the beautiful, and the unapologetically original.
Have you ever found yourself daydreaming about your ideal life—a fulfilling job, a loving relationship, radiant health, or simply peace of mind? What if I told you that these aren’t just idle fantasies, but powerful seeds of reality waiting to blossom through the art of manifestation and visualization?
On May 3 and 4, Shah Houses in Ngara will open its doors for the African premiere of Surviving Death — a daring, emotionally-charged concert exploring grief, hope, and human connection through music, poetry, and visual projection.
Back by overwhelming demand, this Swahili-language masterpiece doesn’t shout; it whispers, it pauses, it lets the weight of silence do the heavy lifting. In an era where we’re all shouting to be heard, PICHA reminds us that sometimes the loudest truths are found in the quietest moments.
There are exhibitions opening this weekend, plus others ongoing. Make your weekend and art weekend iN Nairobi.
Directed by Max Duncan and Xinyan Yu, the film takes us deep into the shifting landscape of Dukem, Ethiopia — a small town being reshaped by the presence of a massive Chinese industrial park.
Let me introduce you to crystals—nature’s most underestimated power tools. These shimmering stones aren’t just pretty to look at. They’re ancient, charged with energy, and deeply connected to your personal healing, growth, and success.
There’s bold. And then there’s The Legend of the Vagabond Queen of Lagos — a film that struts onto the screen, grabs you by the collar, and dares you not to look away.
Sinners… Is a Bold, Beautiful Blend of Horror, Music & Black Soul
In this edition of Soma Nami’s Books in Review, Wendy Njoroge reviews Nairobi Noir, a classic collection of short stories.
April marks the beginning of a new lunar cycle, a powerful time to reset and align with the energies of the universe.
Storymoja launches SHIZU: A powerful new children’s book series that takes young readers on time-traveling adventures through Africa’s rich past.
Whether or not you made it to last weekend’s numerous openings & events, there’s still plenty going on in the art world iN Nairobi. Scroll down to see what’s on in April…
In an era where artistic expression serves as both a mirror and a map, Reuben emerges as a visionary who reshapes narratives of design, identity and cultural memory.
This week, sparked by International Women’s Month, Palak Bhatt, This week, our mindfulness contributor Mindfulness Coach & Reiki Master Palak Bhatt takes us through mindfulness for children.
There’s always a week iN Nairobi when all the art seems to happen! Scroll down to see what’s opening, what’s one-off & what’s still on…
On the occasion of her upcoming exhibition at One Off Gallery, Sarah Luddy met with Olivia Pendergast to discuss her work and the concepts behind the paintings.
Nairobi’s food scene is evolving, and at the heart of this transformation is the growing popularity of farmers’ markets. iN has you covered.
This week, sparked by International Women’s Month, Palak Bhatt, Mindfulness Coach & Reiki Master reflects beautifully on reiki within the motherhood journey.
In this edition of Soma Nami’s Books in Review, Wendy Njoroge reviews Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s Dream Count
Nairobi’s dance scene is set to sizzle with the upcoming debut of “Voulez-Vous,” the latest production by the renowned Origins Dance Company. Scheduled for March 21st and 22nd at Matteo’s in Karen.
A second installment from iN’s newest contributor, Palak Bhatt, Mindfulness Coach & Reiki Master. This week Palak talks about how meditation can be the key to stopping overthinking.
It’s a busy weekend in the art world iN Nairobi! Scroll down to see whats opening & what’s still on…
This week we introduce iN’s newest contributor, Palak Bhatt, Mindfulness Coach & Reiki Master. In this first column she writes around the timely theme of International Women’s Day.
In this edition of Soma Nami’s Books in Review, Wendy Njoroge reviews Wendy Njoroge reviews the compelling novel “River Spirit” by Leila Aboulela.
Born from a passion for blending great food with soulful music, our Jazz Sundays have evolved into one of Nairobi’s most anticipated weekly events. Read More…
Nairobi’s music landscape is undergoing a dynamic transformation, and at the heart of this evolution is Monateng Collective—an initiative reshaping the city’s electronic and AfroHouse scenes.
Tumetoka Very Far, an innovative journey of music, poetry and dance movement is coming to Braeburn Theatre…
KADS presents Just Juliet: The Musical! A bold, reimagined tale where love, friendship, and pop hits collide! Juliet takes charge of her life, leaving tragedy behind for a whirlwind adventure in Paris. But who will win her heart? Or… does she even need to choose?
It’s a busy weekend in the art world iN Nairobi! Scroll down to see whats opening & what’s still on…
New play Sanctuary: A couple grapples with the intrusion of AI in their relationship, which is already experiencing difficulties and a new level of incompatibility.
In our final installment of”Meet the Teachers”, around the Kilifi Wellness Festival series, we meet Nathan Fallou, a multi-faceted and music-centred practitioner.
Today in iN’s “Meet the Teachers” series around the Kilifi Wellness Festival, we meet Melina Moors, a yoga teacher and holistic wellness practitioner. Her offerings include energetic multi-style yoga, slow-paced yin yoga, Thai Yoga Massage, and Handpan sound journeys. She integrates movement, breathwork, meditation, sound, touch and aromatherapy to activate healing, personal growth and higher states of consciousness.
In this edition of Soma Nami’s Books in Review, Wendy Njoroge reviews fantasy novel Shigidi and the Brass Head of Obalufon by Wole Talabi
Here we go again – the weekend has gone round and already it’s Monday…check out what’s on iN Nairobi to plan your weekand see you Thursday for the weekend guide!!
In a dazzling display of endurance, talent, and sheer musical passion, Kenyan trumpeter Mackinlay Mutsembi has set a new Guinness World Record for the longest continuous trumpet performance.
We’ve found so many wellness events happening this weekend that we thought we’d put them all together for you… scroll on down, it will be hard to choose what to do with your weekend!
In this third installment of “Meet the Teachers” of the Kilifi Wellness Festival, iN caught up with yoga teacher Alice Faulkner at Arcadia Bush Camp near Kilifi, where she is currently volunteering.
Here we go again – the weekend has gone round and already it’s Monday…check out what’s on iN Nairobi to plan your week!
In our second installment of “Meet the Teacher”, around the Kilifi Wellness Festival, we introduce you to holistic practitioner Paula Arranz Canales,
Nairobi Fashion Week 2025: A Bold Step Toward Regenerative Design. Starts 29th January 2025.
It’s been a few weeks and the art world keeps going… We rounded up what’s on this week so you don’t miss out on any exhibitions!
Whether you’re looking for art or live music, quiz nights or dj beatz, it’s happening this week iN Nairobi. Check out what’s on iN Nairobi this week!
From Rasmi Damo, a Palestinian artist and filmmaker living in France.
The festival is dedicated to holistic practices and personal growth.
As we settle down into 2025, Nairobi is kicking into gear again…check out what’s on iN Nairobi this week!
In various venues across Nairobi, a vibrant celebration of culture, resilience, and creativity is unfolding soon. The Palestinian Art Festival is coming, presenting a tapestry of powerful stories and striking images of a unique and ancient land, people and culture.
As Wajukuu Arts exhibition comes to a close, we dived in with the artists to hear more about their work and their organization.
It’s the New Year and not to worry if you missed out on visiting exhibitions in December, many are still on or have been extended. Check out the art scene in Nairobi this month!
In this edition of Soma Nami’s Books in Review, Wendy Njoroge reviews the enlightening work of non-fiction, Black Ghosts: A Journey into the Lives of Africans in China by Noo Saro-Wiwa
iN looks at “What the Water Left Behind”, an exhibition of ethereal works by Nairobian artist Agnes Waruguru, on display at Circle Art Gallery until 3 January 2025.
Lot’s going on in the big green city this week. Check out our fully comprehensive list of where to be and when to be there! #GETiN
We Are NBO is a lush handmade jewelry brand based in Nairobi whose warm, gold plated pieces tell a story of joy, resilience, community, and ingenuity.
Keeping you updated on the festive season in Nairobi, so you don’t need to scroll through the events of Christmas Past….
Welcome to another installment of Soma Nami’s Books in Review. This time we hear from the other half of Soma Nami, Muthoni Muiruri who reviews Toni Morrison’s classic “Beloved”.
The inaugural Nomadic Arts Festival will take place on Friday December 6th 2024 at Oshwal Center in Westlands, Nairobi. The festival will bring together talent from Northern Kenya and trending pop artists from Nairobi in an unforgettable celebration of music, culture and collaboration.
Lot’s going on in the big green city this week. Check out our fully comprehensive list of where to be and when to be there! #GETiN
Keeping you updated on the festive season in Nairoib, so you don’t need to scroll through the events of Christmas Past….
Check out our full listing of what’s on in the the art world here iN Nairobi, from now into the month of December.
Monday is a bit of a washout this wet week, but Tuesday to Thursday are happening iN Nairobi this week!
This exhibition brings together two strong female voices from Nairobi’s world of emerging artists.
Your wishes have been granted— the pantomime Aladdin is soaring into Braeburn Theatre this weekend and Nairobi’s theatre scene is set to sparkle! Buckle up for a whirlwind ride as Aladdin and Princess Mandarin embark on a hilarious, high-flying adventure packed with magic, mayhem, and mischief.
The Festive Season is shortly upon us… We’ve rounded up all the best things to do in Nairobi to get into the spirit of the holidays…Starting this weekend! Keep an eye on this post, we’ll be updating it as new events come in…
Sunny Dolat talks with Sue Muraya and Katungulu Mwendwa about the evolution of fashion in Kenya and why there’s a perception that Kenyans don’t have style.
Who says fun is just for the weekend?
Check out what’s on iN Nairobi this week!
Prepare to reset, recharge, and reconnect with yourself at the 2024 Kisima Festival. Embodying the Kiswahli word for “well”, Kisima Festival invites people to step away from the hustle of everyday life and embrace holistic well-being
It’s the week for you if you’re a theatre or film lover – KITFest is on at the Kenya National Theatre and Unseen Nairobi is hosting a film festival with a number of films you’re unlikely to see otherwise. That’s in addition to the usual offerings this city gives us. check out what’s on iN Nairobi this week!
More art iNcoming at the galleries iN Nairobi, new shows, one off events & last chance to see – this weekend and in the month of November
All the usual arts, culture and music are sizzling this week, including the kickoff of KITFest and a new play at Braeburn Theatre…Check out what’s on in Nairobi this week!