The Christmas Season is on in Nairobi, with plays, pantos and pop-ups… But even if Christmas isn’t your vibe, there’s always loads to do in this vibrant city!
iNSEASON
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.
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.
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.
Tour de Brunch Kantata Edition | Kempinski | Sunday 1 December | 12:30 – 4:30pm
Experience the Christmas edition of Kempinski’s indulgent brunch, with a magical tree lighting at 5pm.
iN254
Pop Up & Chill | Rosedale Gardens, Kilimani | Sunday 1 December | 10am – 6pm
Come and explore an eclectic mix of handmade creations under the trees, while vibing to the sounds of @midl_east, @deejayjosay, and @davisuji and also while the little ones enjoy creative craft and fun activities by @lifetouch_co and @arcade_1999_. Save the date and tell a friend or two! Let’s make this last market awesome and unforgettable!
Entry KES 300 for adults and free for kids 12 and under. Food and drink options available. Dogs on leash are welcome and you must pick up after them. Parking spaces are limited. You are encouraged to take a cab or carpool.
iNSTAGES
Aladdin | Braeburn Players | Braeburn Theatre, Gitanga Rd. | 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.
Six & the City – a Playreading by Contact Zones Project | Friday 29 November | 6 – 9pm | FREE ENTRY
A live reading that dives into the heart of Nairobi’s urban pulse! Be part of this one-of-a-kind performance showcases six powerful short plays by some of Nairobi’s most talented playwrights, each presenting a distinct slice of life in Kenya’s bustling capital.
As these stories unfold, you’ll journey through the dreams, dilemmas, and dating escapades of contemporary Nairobians, each facing choices that reveal the essence of living in one of Africa’s most dynamic cities. Co-created by the Goethe-Institut Kenya and Hope Theatre Nairobi, this event connects global and local voices, reimagining an acclaimed German project to reflect Nairobi’s unique beat.
Hiti Ng’eni | Kenya National Theatre | Friday 29 November – Sunday 1 December | Times vary
Get ready, get ready! November edition titled “HITI NG’ENI is here!! With all the FOMO from last edition, we’re diving right into the next Gikuyu comedy play.
Tickets are available at : 1500/= Lipa na Mpesa Till Number: 4224626 For more info call:0796976576
iNTHEDARK
Electric Deluxe Release Party w/ FENA GITU & MIKE MUEMA |KODA | Thursday 28 November | 6pm – 2am
This Thursday Fena Gitu & Mike Muema release the Electric Deluxe version of her latest album Love & Lust live at KODA with DJ sets through the night by DJ Panik & Smolls, DJ MissRay & MGM from 6pm ’til 2am.
Kashuta: A Blinky Bill Live Experience | Masshouse | Friday 29 November
They have Kashatas, Tote Bags, “We Cut Keys 2” Vinyls, signed posters and amazing live music 🔥🔥🔥🔥 come jam with @blinkybillmusic ⚡️⚡️⚡️finna go crazy 🔥With any ticket purchase you will received a welcome cocktail on arrival by our partner Monkey Shoulders’ mixologists. VIP ticket includes on arrival: a tote bag with a signed Blinky Bill’s poster. Plus you get to enjoy complimentary cocktails by our partner Monkey Shoulder’s mixologists.
To book a table call 0729 611 111
Jungle 2nd Edition | KODA | Friday 29 November
720 MUSIC LAB – THE JUNGLE II w/ SIO This Friday 720 Music Lab bring The Jungle to KODA staring South African Singer/Songwriter & DJ – SIO. Supported by Tina Ardor b2b MGM, IV b2b Darkfruit, Ghedi, Priss, Kalesh & Ms Mika.
Basthma | The Mist | Friday 29 November | From 9pm
Bass instinct… Free Entry… 21+
Magna Presents | KODA | Saturday 30 November
Full lineup for this Saturday is here and it’s hot!! Supporting @culoedesong & @murphy_cubic we have invited Nairobi’s favorite DJs and Producers @suraj.kenya, @dylan.s.ke, @wearekuzo, @djvidza, @hiriba.e & Panik (@alfeenjuguna) across both Rooms at @kodanairobi in partnership with @desperados 💥 It’s MAGNA week friends! 🕺💃 Get your Advance Tickets now via KODA’s website or @mookh.africa
Saturday 30 November
Kenya Nights x @jagermeisterkenya celebrates 15 years of KN with Greek Afro Tech legend @djdamike at The Mall Rooftop! To celebrate with us we have a superstar line up with @murathedj • the boss @bignyagz • dancefloor destroyer @ghedimusic • the maestro @_darkfruit • and Kenya’s top duo @themm_254
Tickets are up and only available on hustlesasa.
Jungle Anniversary | Muze| Saturday 30 November | 9pm – 6am
Who Said Sean Paul | KICC | Sunday 1 December
Legends & local stars unite on one stage! Which artist are you MOST excited to see? Tickets on @mticketsevents_ @getaticketke @ticketsasa
Gondwana x Hangaut | KODA | Sunday 1 December | 4pm – late
Don’t miss Gondwana’s last Hangaut of the year!
iNTUNE
Muturu & Muratatu Night | 254 Kikuyu Taproom | Thursday 28 November | 6pm
Live music meets karaoke fun this Thursday at KTR with none other than Dela. Come ready to sing, vibe, and create memories!
Let’s Go Country Feat. Sir Elvis | Shamba| Friday 29 November | From 6:30pm
@sirelvis01 and the caravan band. Get ready to barn dance, sing and shuffle.
Saturday Night Jam! Zareo | Azteca | Saturday 30 November | 6pm
This Saturday Night Jam, AztecA brings Madagascar to Nairobi!! With ZAREO Live!! Don’t miss this unique oportunity to enjoy great #livemusic with the best #mexicanfood in town and amazing #cocktails and #craftbeer
Remember to bring your insteument if you play and #jam with the band!!
Karaoke with DJ Neevy | Under the Swahili Tree | Saturday 30 November | 6pm – late
Tickle your tonsils and enjoy some banging cocktails 🍸
Sunday Sessions: Dagoz Nomads | Bamba | Sunday 1 December | 5:30pm
Sunday Sessions are back at @dagozartistvenue with the incredible Dagoz Nomads bringing their signature bluesy vibes!
✨ Free Entry – Book a table for the best spot or just walk in and enjoy an unforgettable evening of live blues and rock music.
Nairobi SingAlong | Arena Lounge | Sunday 1 December | 2pm – 2am
Throwing it back to the ’90s R&B era with a touch of Mugiithi magic! 🎤✨ Don’t miss out on Nairobi Singalong📍@thearenaloungeke Music by @dj_rane_the_scratch_kid & @kikuyulovesessions
Early bird tickets: 1,000 KES | Advance: 1,500 KES, with 500 KES redeemable for a drink. Sponsored by @254brewingco and @kenyanoriginals Let’s make it a night to remember!
iNTHEARTS
She Speaks: African Feminine Perspectives | Aweko Rosette & Achieng Owira | Under the Swahili Tree, Karen | Opening Thursday 28 November, 6pm
This exhibition brings together two strong female voices from the world of emerging artists. With layers of multi-coloured dots which combine to result in visually striking images, Aweko explores a rich tapestry of African life. Using bold colours from a rich palette, Owira mines her life experiences to interrogate the shifting identities of African people, often focusing on women and examining the gap between who society says women should be and what they are.
Two Worlds, One Gallery | Ardhi Gallery | Openign Thursday 28 November | 10am – 8pm
Ardhi Gallery invites you to explore the beauty of duality with their latest exhibition. Step into a space where diverse froms of artistic expression collide and complement, offering a truly immersive experience.
Siân Daniel : Artistic Alchemy || Kahare Miano : Works in Progress | One Off Gallery | Opening Saturday 30 November
One Off Gallery brings you two very different mixed media artists: Siân Daniel has been a name in the arts in this region for many years.
Anjali Khamar | Chez Mahmadi | Meet the Artist | 30 November | 3 – 6pm
Anjali’s art attempts to capture the awe that nature inspires, in a kaleidoscope of unexpected colour that aims to uplift, delight and leave a sense of joy and positivity in the beholder, in a stark departure from contemporary art on the continent that often showcases the bleakness of life.
Pearls & Daisies | Nicy Amala | Traventure Cafe, Gigiri | Sunday 1 December | From 2pm
Artist Nicy Amala showcases her work for a pleasant afternoon of artsy company and good food at Traventure Cafe. 700 ksh entry gives everyone will get a postcard copy of one of the artworks, a pearl crotcheted bracelet and a complimentary drink on arrival.
iNRETROSPECT
Travel through – Planet Africa | Nairobi National Museum, Creativity Gallery | 30 November | 8:30am – 5:30pm daily
The Planet Africa exhibition explores two million years of African history and archaeology. It highlights themes like human origins, cultural evolution, and the impact of ancient knowledge on contemporary research, featuring works by African street artists @maasai_mbili and interactive visuals. The exhibition, which will show in Kenya, Germany, and other countries in Africa, reflects collaboration between African and German researchers.
iNSTYLE
Woza | Masshouse | Ngong Racecourse | Sunday 1 December | 3 – 7pm
An unforgettable fashion pop-up at the Arena featuring the exclusive fashion brands @metamorphisized and @lanesteppers and enjoy live performances by @dauudi.o and @o.jizzo . Experience an incredible lineup of artists that will elevate your Sunday vibes!
Entry: Free | Happy Hour from 3-7 PM | To reserve a table, call 0729 611 111. Performers: @ms.mika._ @hiriba.e @ghedimusic @thetwogongs
SCREENiNG
One Direction Watch Party | K1 Klubhouse | Friday 29 November | 5pm
Tag along with the Lore on Friday for a One Direction watch party. @thelore.ke @k1klubhouse
The Battle for Laikipia | Unseen Nairobi | From Saturday 30 November to 22 December
Cinema Lovers in Kenya, we have news for you! Back by popular demand, The Battle for Laikipia, directed by Oscar-nominated director @daphnematziaraki and Rory Peck award winner @peterbagaka is hitting the big screen. Now’s your chance to experience this powerful, homegrown story that tackles identity, inequality, and the climate crisis. Together, let’s spark climate justice conversations that matter and showcase the brilliance of collaborative storytelling to the world.
CRAFTiNG
Christmas Wreath Making Workshop | Flower Factory @ The Arbor Place | Saturday 30 November | 12pm
Enjoy a cocktail/mocktail while you learn to make your own wreath for decking the halls! Kids can join in with age appropriate activities like decorating a pot, planting succulents and ornament crafting. Advance booking required. If you can’t make this one, check in with The Flower Factory on Instagram for more workshops running up to Christmas!
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.
GROOViNG
Nairobi Konpa Social | Muze Club| Friday 29 November | 9:30pm
Dance Factory Kenya presents Konpa Social – dance the night away!
iNSCRIBED
Book Reading: Where You Come From | Goethe-Institut | 6pm
A funny, touching and subtly profound story of family, immigration and belonging. In 2019, the author, Saša Stanišić , won Germany’s most important literary prize with „Herkunft“. It is a book about the very first coincidence of our existence: To be born somewhere. And about what comes after. The excerpts will be read by Tomasz Milej (German) and Timothy Okuna (English) and expect a lively discussion afterwards.
NaiRobbery Cocktail Book Launch | 910 James Gichuru | Saturday 30 November | 2 – 6pm
@kate_actress is coming to the Yellow Party, and so should you! The NaiRobbery Cocktail Book Launch @910jamesgichuru will celebrate @cocktail_empress’s latest masterpiece. Meet Kate Actress live and immerse yourself in an afternoon of thrilling stories and vibrant conversations! Entry: A copy of NaiRobbery Cocktail (Pre-order for KES 1,000 or purchase at the event for KES 1,200).
iNTROSPECTION
Mezame Workshop: Step Into New Beginnings | The Nest | Saturday 30 November | 9am – 12:30pm
Look into your life cycle and experiences in different ways with Akiko Shirai Van der Heijden. Complete the cycle you are in now and start an expansive sacred path to flow into the New Year.
PLAYiNG
Moana 2 Kiddie Treat | Westgate Cinema | Saturday 30 & Sunday 1 November | 11am Show ONLY
Little moments, big smiles! Treat your little movie buffs to the ultimate Kiddie Treat this weekend. 950ksh is inclusive of one food option from KFC/ Pizza Hut / Subz
iNACTION
Football with Man U kicks off at 4:30, followed by Liverpool v Man City. Then at 7pm the Qatar Grand Prix kicks in! Along with the sounds of DJ Festa
iNCONVERSATION
Building Beyond the Club | The Mist | Saturday 30 November | 2 – 4pm
The Mist would like to invite members of @themist.ke community in Nairobi to come to a discussion around exploring ways in which @themist.ke can grow beyond its four walls and connect and collaborate with other venues and artists internationally. In this talk The Mist will share insights on Raph’s recent research trip to the UK, meeting with like-minded venues and community spaces. I will also share some insights from my career as a touring DJ and producer.
Finally we will open up the conversation to discuss ways in which The Mist can support DJs + artists within its community to connect, share work and collaborate internationally.
Talk with Louna Sbou (Oyoun, Berlin) | Cheche Books | Sunday 1 December | 3pm
Cultivating and nurturing resilient transnational networks dedicated to advancing equity, justice, and transformation is an ever-evolving journey. Initiated amidst the pandemic to actively combat ongoing silencing and repression, Oyoun has persistently re-envisioned creative practices in response to these challenges, paving the way for radical change and an inclusive cultural paradigm. At the intersection of the body as a reflection of political expression and empowerment, Oyoun crafts anti-disciplinary initiatives to address the urgent need for safe(r) spaces for marginalized diaspora communities and illuminate their futures. Despite facing precarious conditions and the repression of democratic values, it is through the transformative power of community-building and the arts that resilience is fostered, guiding us toward collective healing and intersectional justice.
Cheche invites you to join in exploring how grounding our work in lived experiences and artistic research as tools for social movement can weave together shared histories across diverse geographies, foster new connections, and a shared vision of solidarity and conviviality.
Free and open to the public. We do ask for a minimum donation of 500ksh which will go towards mutual aid efforts in besieged Gaza.