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…
iNSTAGES
A Christmas Carol | Braeburn Garden Estate Theatre | Friday 22 & Saturday 23 November | Various times
Get ready to be enchanted by the timeless tale of transformation and holiday spirit as Braeburn Garden Estate’s talented KS2 and KS3 students bring Charles Dickens’ classic story A Christmas Carol to life on stage. Set in Victorian London, A Christmas Carol follows the unforgettable character Ebenezer Scrooge, whose cold heart and disdain for holiday cheer have left him isolated. But one fateful Christmas Eve, Scrooge is visited by three spirits—the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Yet to Come. Through these ghostly visits, Scrooge confronts the choices he has made and is offered a chance to change. Will he embrace compassion and kindness?
Aladdin | Braeburn Players | Braeburn Theatre, Gitanga Rd. | Friday 22 – Sunday 24 November & Friday 29 November – Sunday 1 December | Various times
It’s time for the Panto! Braeburn Players present the original tale from ancient China, brought to life with laughs, love, and LOADS of magic!
Join our hero Aladdin in a bustling town where he’s caught in a whirlwind of adventure! With a wise-cracking genie, a few sidekicks, and some unexpected friends, Aladdin takes on the wicked Abanazar to win the heart of the Princess and save his family. Add Widow Twankey’s wacky antics, and you’ve got a show that’ll have everyone laughing, cheering, and singing along!
Evening and matinee shows to suit the whole family! Don’t miss the chance to experience this vibrant, comedy-filled panto that’s jam-packed with slapstick humor, silly songs, and heartwarming moments! Gather the family, book your tickets now at theatres.braeburn.com, and join the Players for a night of unforgettable magic! 🧞♂️✨
Scrooge – The Musical | Nairobi Performing Arts Studio | Karen Country Club | Friday 29 November – Sunday 1 December | Various times
The renowned Nairobi Performing Arts Studio is bringing us a rollicking version of the classic Christmas tale Scrooge – as a musical! The miserly Ebenezer Scrooge, played by seasoned actor Sam Psenjen, undergoes a profound experience of redemption aided by the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future. Through these encounters, he confronts his own greed and changes his ways to embrace the spirit of generosity and the joy of Christmas. Get your tickets NOW at KenyaBuzz.
Nutcracker | Dance Centre Kenya | Kenya National Theatre | Friday 29 November – Sunday 1 December + Gala on 7 December | Times vary
The classic Nutcracker as performed by Kenya’s own Dance Centre Kenya, definitely a highlight of everyone’s Christmas festivities.
KADSmas Carol | Under the Swahili Tree, Karen | Saturday 7 December | 5:30pm
‘A KADSMas Carol’ is the new pantomime by the Kenya Amateur Dramatics Society (KADS), with an original take on A Christmas Carol. Please join Scrooge and the cast on a series of mysterious adventures, with laughter, nostalgia, singing and all the panto classics along the way! A fun panto for all the family that will raise your Christmas spirits. Followed by a fun karaoke evening!
iNTUNE
The Nairobi Pop Choir Christmas Recital | Shamba Cafe | Tuesday 26 November | 6pm
Carols at the Shamba | German Community Choir & Friends | Shamba Cafe | Saturday 30 November | 3 – 4pm
An afternoon of traditional carolling and singing. Reservations are highly recommended – call 070345168.
Christmas Carols | Under the Swahili Tree | Wednesday 11 December | 5:30pm
Come sing some traditional carols in support of the Friends of Dagoretti Children! Reservations are recommended.
Kenya Cultural Choir Christmas Carols | Hemingways | Tuesday 24 December | 5 – 6pm
Book your festive cocktail and mince pies to nibble while you listen to some traditional Christmas jingles at the elegant Hemingways.
PLAYiNG
North Pole Brunch & Christmas Party | Under the Swahili Tree | Saturday 14 December | 11am – 1:30pm
A special pre-Christmas North Pole Brunch & Christmas party with a live appearance by Santa! Including games, crafts & a gift from Santa. In addition, Sophie Walbeoffe, author of the charming “Pepper and Poncho” story book will be there from 10am for book signing. Kids can also post a letter to Santa (see below). Ho ho ho!
Santa’s Post Box | Under the Swahili Tree | From late November
Post your letter to Santa at Under the Swahili Tree in Karen! There’s no charge for this fun, just stop by anytime!
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The Christmas BoX | Ngong Race Course | Friday 22 – Sunday 24 November | 9am – 5:30pm
THE boutique Christmas fair. The Christmas BoX offers the most selective and sophisticated up-market Christmas Fair in Nairobi. This three day craft fair brings together talented artisans from Kenya and other Eastern African Countries to showcase their exceptional craftsmanship and locally made products – the perfect concept to source artisan East African brands and get your shopping for Christmas gifts done. With food and drinks stalls as well, the fair offers a fun family day out too.
Gardening Kenya Plant Sale | Matteo’s Events, Karen | Saturday 23 November | 9am – 4pm
The Nairobi District Christmas Plant Sale with a wide variety of indoor and outdoor plants, and plant accessories. Tag your plant-loving friends and family! Entry 400/ and free for members. Come shop and have a great time!
Junubi Pop-Up Festival | Kenyatta Market | Saturday 23 November | 11am – 7pm
Nakshi Glass Open Studio Sale | Opportunity Factory, Karen | Saturday 23 – Sunday 24 November | 10am – 5pm
Start early on your Christmas shopping at this Open Studio and end of year sale, with huge discounts on many items.
Glass and jewellery making demos ongoing throughout the weekend.
Kenya Museum Society Christmas Market | Nairobi National Museum | Saturday 30 November | 10am – 6pm
The annual KMS Christmas Market with pre-loved books, arty activities & the German Community Choir to add to the holiday vibe.
Sip & Paint @ the Christmas Market| KMS X pleinair.ke | Nairobi National Museum | Saturday 30 November | 11am – 1pm & 2 – 4pm
Bookings are a MUST! 10 people MAX per session. Learn perspective drawing, colour theory & brushstroke technique from professional artists whild sipping a mocktail/cocktail.
The German Christmas Charity Bazaar | Riverside Church | Saturday 30 November | 11am – 5pm
The annual charity bazaar with all the German Christmas traditions! Christmas sweets, mulled wine, tombola, advent calendar, stollen, more German food + over 40 vendors.
Matteo’s Christmas Market | Matteo’s Events & Lounge | Saturday 30 November & Sunday 1 December | 11am – 7pm
Kick off the holiday season with us at the Matteo’s Christmas Market! Join us on November 30th and December 1st in the lush gardens of Matteo’s Events & Lounge in Karen for a festive gathering filled with unique artisanal crafts, handmade treasures, and locally crafted fashion. Sip on wine, enjoy festive cocktails, savor our authentic Italian treats, and browse an array of natural cosmetics and gifts to spoil your loved ones. Bring friends, bring family, and let’s celebrate the season together! 🎄Matteo’s Events & Lounge, this is where the Christmas spirit begins—don’t miss out!
Bao Box X Karen Flea Market Pop Up Market | Bao Box | Sunday 1 December | 11am – 7pm
December get ready🎉 Our 1st pop up market is back at @baoboxcafe with more exciting vendors, games, music and vibes. It’s pet friendly and family friendly with something for ever.
SAWA Christmas Family Day | Pottery Shed, Karen | Sunday 1 December | 11am – 5pm
Bring your family & friends to celebrate the joy of the season with fun activities, a delicious braai, and holiday cheer (& beer)!
*There will be a visit from Santa with gifts for the kids (treats he brought back all the way from home)
*The opportunity to take a beautiful professional Christmas family photo.
*A mini Christmas market to do some shopping.
Tickets can be bought via mpesa +254 768 232004 Lizelle
All proceeds in aid of the Santa 🎅Shoebox Project for Restart Africa and Oasis School in Deep Sea Slum.
We will fill a bag of essentials & a small treat for the children…let’s bring them a little joy this Christmas.
White Elephant Pop Up | Wednesday 4 December – Saturday 7 December | 10am – 6pm
White Elephant says: Ok, so we couldn’t resist doing this ONE LAST TIME!! The gig is up! The secret’s out! We’re having a show!! This summer in the UK I just couldn’t resist popping into a few of my old haunts, scouring a few antique fairs and saying hi to some of my favourite auction houses…just for fun, you know? And then suddenly I had a 40ft container’s worth of furniture ready to ship. 😂 Oops.
We’ve re-assembled the team who as we speak are busy sanding, polishing, painting, re-wiring, stitching and re-upholstering a marvellous medley of fabulous pieces for your delectation.
Artisan Makers Market | Shamba Events | 6 – 8 December | Various times
This is your chance to discover unique, handcrafted holiday gifts from local artisans, all in one vibrant space. From stunning jewelry and cozy home décor to delicious treats and eco-friendly products, there’s something for everyone on your list (and maybe even a little something for yourself!).
Why You Shouldn’t Miss It:
🎄Support local artisans and celebrate Kenyan craftsmanship
🎄Find one-of-a-kind gifts perfect for the holidays
🎄Enjoy a lively, festive atmosphere with family and friends
Mark your calendar, bring the whole family, and get ready for an unforgettable shopping experience that celebrates the best of local talent!
Fig & Olive Christmas Market | Fig & Olive, Tigoni | Friday 6 – Sunday 8 December | 9 – 5pm
Head ot this family run cafe, Farmshop & Deli nestled beautiful Tigoni for their festive Christmas Market.
Maridadi Christmas Craft Festival | Marula Manor, Karen | Saturday 7 & Sunday 8 December | 9am – 4pm
Christmas is coming and you’ll be rockin’ around the Christmas tree in no time.
Maridadi Christmas Craft Festival is curating the perfect Christmas shopping experience for you and your family.
Whether naughty or nice, we have something for the whole family 🤶🎅🎄
Bizarre Bazaar Christmas Festival | STVET | Friday 13 – Sunday 15 December | Friday & Saturday 9am – 8pm | Sunday 9am – 6pm
BIZARRE BAZAAR CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL is back and bigger than ever! ?? Get ready for a holiday shopping adventure, with unique vendors, unbeatable deals, and endless fun ALL WEEKEND!!!!
*open-air market * art, crafts & more * 100+ Vendors * diverse foodcourt * live music & entertainment * DJ?s * biz baz kids club * sarakasi trust activities * kids playground * dog friendly
Karen Flea Market Christmas Pop Up Market | Junction Mall Courtyard | 13 – 15 December | 11am – 6pm
Tis the season to spoil your loved ones this Christmas season🎄. Welcome to our second pop up market in December 🎁 Need the perfect gift, look no further than The Junction Mall Christmas Popup Market. Swing by the Courtyard from December 13th, 14th & 15th from 11am to 6pm for unique finds that will bring all the smiles.
A Very Kenyan Christmas Pop Up | Junction Mall | Saturday 14 & Sunday 15 December | 12 – 6pm
And just as an appetiser for the main event. We will also have the daytime pop up market. Enjoy
-Amazing Live Acoustic Performances
– Tasty Christmas Food
– Top Notch Vendors
– Fun for the Kids
iNDULGE
Christmas Frozen Foods | Under the Swahili Tree
Celebrating a traditional British Christmas? Order well in advance and simplify your celebration!
Hemingways Holiday Specials | Hemingways, Karen | Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, Boxing Day
Hemingways has you sorted for special celebrations across the Christmas holidays with special meals on offer throughout.
Lemon Valley Farm Christmas Picnic | 25 & 26 December | 12:30 – 4pm
Fancy getting out of Nairobi for Christmas? Celebrate & soak up a bit of the countryside charm at the Lemon Valley Farm, Elementeita. Expect Christmas carols, Santa, a photo booth, kids’ corner, playground and magnificent views alongside your buffet & live roast. Full board accomodation is also available.