Things to do in Nairobi this weekend: 1 – 4 May

It’s the Long Labour Day Weekend! Did you start on Wednesday?

Whether you’re in the mood for a spontaneous night out, an afternoon of live music, a curated dining experience, or just looking to discover something new—this weekend is packed with options iN NAIROBI.

The iN NAIROBI Event Guide is your go-to for everything happening across the city. We’ve handpicked the most exciting events, so you don’t have to scroll for hours to find the vibe that fits you.

From hidden gems to headline acts, Nairobi is giving, and we’ve got it all in one place. Explore, share, and make your weekend unforgettable.

iNTHEDARK

The Luxe Party | Redroom Arena | Thursday 1 May | Daytime

All roads lead to The Luxe Party at Redroom Arena! A daytime extravaganza with the hottest names in the game: @djdreamkenya, @cngthedj, @johnrabar, @gmoneyizme, @shema_dj & @itendera.

All tickets available on https://theredroom.hustlesasa.shop/ .

TLR Taped | The Living Rooms | Friday 1 May | 2 – 9pm

#TLRTaped is Back – Your Next Holiday Day Party in 4K. After a magical and sold-out debut, TLR Taped 2.0 is here:
TLR Taped is our special day party for the sun and day party seekers with pure vibes—good people, great energy, and a soundtrack blending Afrobeats, Alte, Amapiano, Hip Hop, R&B, and Nairobi’s urban sounds.

This edition’s Vibe curators: @kitera_m_t • @dauudi.o • @bad_m0n . Tickets via link in bio. Very limited capacity.
Captured moments: Two DJ sets will be recorded live for our upcoming YouTube channel—come be part of the vibe.

House x Piano | Soho | Thursday 1 May

It’s the first of the month and we’re kicking off May with a BANG! The first May edition of House x Piano features an unstoppable lineup: Coco Kahii | Dylan S | Hiribae | Ghedi | Big Nyagz. When’s the last time you saw all these legends on one stage? Don’t miss out—be part of the moment, not the regret.

Tickets live now on HustleSasa—hit the link in bio!

One Love Thursday | K1 Klubhouse | Thursday 1 May

Vibes up, worries down. Where the rhythm sets you free and the good times roll!”

The Mist | Weekend

Thursday 1 May: The Clearing | Friday 2 May: Kenyan Reggae Night | Saturday 3 May: Geng Geng

The Turn Up | Alchemist | Thursday 1 May

The Turn Up with @jokisila and @neill_musiq

Reggae Session w DJ Deenox | 1865 Pub | Friday 2 May | 6:30pm til late

Zahabu Sundowner | The Mall (Rooftop) | Friday 25 April | 4pm – midnight

This Friday, we wrap up the Nairobi edition of Train The Trainer (TTT) w/ @moige.pd // DJ Charlie Baby // @mel_frommars @unkle.ankh // @_clebz

DJ and Live Sets from TTT NBO Alums – Moige, DJ Charlie Baby, Rafiiki, Ankh, Clebz
Live: Aming’, Bramsy, Ndufo, JbTheCowgirl, Kambua, Wycee
Emcees: Lukorito, Kiptala

Kenyan Reggae Night | The Mist | Friday 2 May | From 9pm

@254reggaemag presents @mclilpin backed by the crew this #FreeFriday at the bashment.

We Get Deep| KODA | Friday 2 May | 10pm – 4am

Merlon | Muze Club | Saturday 3 May | 10pm

MUZE Club presents @djmerlon with Hometown Heroes @ghedimusic @vidza @_darkfruit from 10pm

Wheel It Garage Music Sessions | Gret Cafe | Saturday 3 May | 4pm – 6am

HASIRA HASARA :High-voltage queenpin zapping crowds with explosive 2-step mutations. ⚡ @hasira.hasara_ | BALTER SENSEI : Samurai of swing, slicing through beats with old-school flair & futuristic finesse. @baltersensei_ke|RYTE : Mad scientist melting minds with trippy, genre-defying sound experiments. @ryte.io_ | DJ SHOCK : Soul sorceress spinning silky, hypnotic garage grooves. @dj.shock.africa | DUKEØFHAZARD: Renegade royalty blending garage chaos with bassline rebellion. 👑 @dukeofhazard_ke | SIROONTZALOT 😐 Rhythmic surgeon crafting perfect bassline prescriptions. @siroontzalot

Tickets flying faster than a rewound cassette! GRAB YOURS NOW: https://mytikiti.africa/events/wheel-it-garage-music

DJ Tunez Blackout Kenya | Red Room | Saturday 3 May – Sunday 4 May

BLACKOUT KENYA 🇰🇪 ft. AFTERPARTY WITH COOLEST. We’re shutting it down on May 3rd & 4th with the ultimate weekend takeover!@dj_tunez (Official Starboy DJ) lands in the 254 for a LIVE show you don’t wanna miss on May 3rd, repping Starboy Entertainment heavy! Then we keep the vibes alive with the Coolest Afterparty— @iamdjseme taking us into day break with the wildest morning set from 4AM on May 4th.

Son of Chesebe Listening Party  | Vibanda Village | Saturday 3 May | 4:30pm til late

A live on stage interview of Jeff Lawgan with @nrbsonic at the listening party, telling the story of Son of Chesebe. Halisi the band will be performing. Afro benga star @awicko_wuod_nyapala will be performing. Wanenaji Music is bringing pure soul to the Listening Party! And you already KNOW that it’s not a real party without the PARTY MASTER himself! Lawgan’s very, very good friend @gudah_man is not only featured on the album, but he’ll be lighting up the stage at the listening party.

The Reminisce | Alloy Bar & Lounge | Saturday 3 May

The Ultimate Olskool event is coming to Nairobi!!! Join us on the 3rd of May @alloybarandlounge for an epic celebration.
Tickets are available on Hustlesasa. PS👉🏼OldSchool jams,retro attire and good vibes only!!!

Madoras In Da House | Alchemist | Saturday 3 May | From 8pm

Afro house heavyweights @madorasindahouse return for a night of deep rhythms and unforgettable vibes! Catch powerhouse sets from @argentodust, @atsou.midh , @lecroque.midh, and a very special guest you won’t want to miss. With support from the local legends @afu.ke, @bignyagz, and @mayakazethedj , it’s set to be a night of pure sonic magic.

A-du-ma-Thing | Alchemist | Saturday 3 May

Alchemist’s second stage will be run by @adumapresents, featuring pulsating melodies by @djdrazen, @onedownlive, @mistakingsize and @battered_lens.

Tickets available at: alchemist.hustlesasa.shop

Unconditional EP Launch | Mageuzi Hub | Saturday 3 May | 1 – 6pm

This Saturday all roads lead to Mageuzi Hub for Becky’s EP launch (Unconditional) and an afternoon of pure good and positive vibes of reggae music. Ital Groove and Pawa radio will be definitely on ground so expect nothing but an experience!

Super Sunday | Alloy Bar & Lounge | Sunday 4 May

Super Sundays Just Got Better! Unlimited brunch. Vibes on lock. DJ D-Lite on deck. Bring the squad, bring the appetite — and don’t miss the Sangria or Beer Tower deal!

Bien’s World Tour Pre-Party | The Manhattan | Sunday 4 May | Doors 5pm, On stage 9pm

Sunday plans? Cancel them. Bien is pulling up at The Manhattan for his EXCLUSIVE World Tour Pre-Party!
Doors open from 5pm as he goes on stage at 9PM | Get Limited Tickets at 1K (themanahattan.hustlesasa.shop)

4Play Sunday | Wine & Bottle – Parklands | Sunday 4 May

Sunday we chill with @theduke.official 🎧 @meldelvin11 for 4PLAY. Come let’s vibe 😌. Offers on all fishbowl cocktails 🍹

The Backyard Soiree | Bla Bla Nairobi | Sunday 4 May

Sunday, @the_backyard_soiree debut, alongside The Medicine Man @kadawa.ke

iN&OUT

Closet in the Shelter | Shelter | Saturday 3 may | 9pm – 6am

WHAT HAPPENS IN THE CLOSET… STAYS IN THE SHELTER.
Ready to lose yourself in sound and find yourself on the dancefloor? Whispers of the underground… SAVI / KAGATE / SHYAM MANDAVIA / GUEST @savi_svai @onlykagate @shyammandavia No rules. Just rhythm. Just you and the night.
Tickets vanishing fast — blink and they’re gone. Ticket link in bio.

iNTUNE

Shamir| Geco Cafe | Thursday 1 May | 7pm

Thursday Unplugged | Alloy Bar & Lounge | Thursday 1 May

This week on Thursday Unplugged Live edition ft. @jumatutuWhen @jumatutu hits the stage, you don’t just hear the music — you feel it. His timeless blend of Swahili jazz and soulful storytelling has inspired us for years, and it’s an honor to have him at Thursday Unplugged Live edition. Get ready for a night of pure magic at @alloybarandlounge

Mugithi by Janey Sings | Wine & Bottle Parklands | Friday 2 May | 7pm

Friday night and the rhythm is just right! Mugithi isn’t just music; it’s a celebration of our roots, our stories, and our unity. @janey_sings will be setting the vibes proper for a party you won’t soon forget. RESERVATIONS : +254 711 984 412

Sawa Sawa Friday  w Afro Simba | Geco Central | Friday 2 May | 6 -11 pm

We bring you @afroosimba 🔥🔥for an unforgettable night of powerful vocals, Afro-fusion grooves, and electric live band vibes to @geco.central

Jamzy Band | 1865 Pub, Karen Village | Friday 2 May | 7:30

Dive into a night of good vibes and great music! @jamzy_ke_official is bringing the 🔥 with a mix of Hip Hop, Jazz, Rock & Blues at The 1865 Pub — Karen Village, Ngong Road! Free entry ✅ Free parking ✅ Food & drink deals. Grab your crew, bring your energy, and let’s jam all night long!

Kasiva Mutua | Geco Cafe | Saturday 3 May | 7pm

Kasiva Mutua, Kenya’s leading female percussionist, is a versatile rhythmic virtuoso. Mastering percussion, guitar, and singer-songwriting, she uplifts African women in music. Her work harmoniously blends tradition and modernity, championing gender equality while preserving cultural heritage.

The Only Sunday | Bao Box | Sunday 4 May | 1 – 8pm

The Only Sunday is BACK and it’s hotter than your ex’s new fling! This Sunday, we’re turning up the vibes again with the sensational @siluette_events_ — if you missed their last set, here’s your second shot at pure musical magic (don’t fumble it twice ). With amazing offers of KSH 2,500 that get you:
🍕 A half & half pizza (NV/V)
🍺 A beer bucket (4 Capitan)
🎯 One FREE activity slot — mini golf, table tennis, darts or Bat fast
🎯 FREE Board Games

With Happy Hour on Cocktails Sundays just got SILUETTE-d!

Dagoz Nomads | Bamba | Sunday 4 April | 6pm

Nairobi’s favourite blues band closing off your weekend with soulful sounds.

Karaoke Competition | 1865 Pub | Sunday 4 May | 7:30pm

Karaoke-off to set yourself up for the final face-off on 30 August!

GROOViN

Latino Night | Nairobi Street Kitchen | Thursday 1 May | from 6pm

DFK Latino Thursdays: Experience the best of Nairobi Afro Latin Dance Culture at Nairobi Streets Kitchen tonight & every Thursday. Social dancing from 6pm to Salsa, Bachata , Kizomba , Semba and Konpa. Welcome. or inquiries contact 0726148780

Go Down Dance Class | The Alchemist | Thursday 1 May | 1 – 5pm

1st May, all roads are leading to @alchemist254 for the #godowndanceclass by @theforce_ke and @namataesther. Your favorite influencers will be in the house too. You know we never miss with the vibesss. Expect all the heat and fun
Entry is FREEE, turn up in your numbers

Mambo Mojo | Spring Valley | Saturday 3 May | From 5pm

A curated experience in a relaxed atmosphere and an opportunity for genuine social connection and comfortable conversations in a home setting. Dance to great refreshing music while treating your taste buds to delicious barbeque and quenching your thirst with a beer, cocktail, whisky, wine or fresh juices. We can guarantee spicy rhythms and sweet vibes all night as we celebrate moments that matter with a meaningful toast.
⏱️ Arrival | 5 pm – 6 pm
• Dominican bachata musicality | 7 pm – 8 pm
• Social dancing + drinks & bbq | 8 pm – Midnight

🎟 KES 2500 ( inclusive of workshop, social, alcoholic drinks/juices + bbq ). Mpesa Paybill – 826900
Account – Your name. Note: Kindly forward the transaction message to the RSVP number : 0712903338

SCREENiNG

The Mixer: Mini-Movie Marathon + Networking | Spills House | Saturday 3 May | 2 – 6pm

Experience the thrill of emerging talents, as Mini Movie Marathon spotlight the next generation of filmmakers who are redefining storytelling in unexpected ways. This event is not just about watching short films; it’s a platform for forging connections, sparking conversations, and uncovering the next big thing in the world of Kenyan Cinema. Tickets are limited. @minimoviemarathon.

iNJEST

The Joke Machine | Nairobi Laugh Bar | Friday 2 May  | 7:30pm

iNSTAGES

Poetry After Lunch Live | Wasanii Corner, KNT | Thursday 1 May | 2 – 5pm

Join us this Labour Day for an inspiring afternoon of rhythm rhyme and reflection at Poetry After Lunch Live!
Catch us at Wasanii Corner, Kenya National Theatre on 1st May 2025 from 2pm -5pm.
Entry is FREE, bring a friend and let’s vibe with poetry.

Picha – A Swahili Drama | Kenya National Theatre | Thursday 1 May | 3pm

This Labour day at 3pm catch the stellar cast of PICHA for a closing showcase of the play’s first revival since 1985! Get your tickets now now and see you at The Kenya National Theatre!

Regality of Spades Flinted | Kenya National Theatre | Thursday 1 May | 6pm

Livestream also available www.youtube.com/@kitfest

Wangu Wa Makeri: A Gikuyu Musical Play | Kenya National Theatre  | Friday 2 May – Sunday 4 May | 7pm

She defied tradition! She led with power! She paid the price! Wangu wa Makeri, a story of courage, rebellion, and resilience like you’ve never seen before.

iN254

Nairobi Planetarium | Thursday, Friday & Saturdays | 105 Riverside Lane off Riverside Drive | 5pm & 7pm

Discover the wonders of the universe at The Nairobi Planetarium – a unique space experience like no other in East Africa! From stunning visuals of deep space to expert-led presentations, our shows will ignite your curiosity and expand your understanding of the cosmos.

Join us every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday for captivating hour-long sessions at 5–6 PM and 7–8 PM. Perfect for all ages – adults, kids, and families! Tickets are KES 1,200 for adults, KES 600 for children under 12, and free for kids under 3.

See Also

Art in May

Famua | Waterfront, Karen

iNPLAY

Disco & Play | 254 Beer District | Saturday 3 May | From 5pm

Introducing House music Bingo! Test your knowledge in your favorite house & Disco tunes and stand a chance to win lunch for 2. @254beerdistrict in collaboration with @unplugandplay Come vibe with your favourite DJs and let’s have fun. The Disco and play…bigger and better!

CRAFTiNG

Rhythm & Clay | Enkara Art Gallery | 2pm

Join Nancy Mutheu for some wine, pottery and old School RnB vibes! Get to indulge in a relaxing pottery experience with a soulful spin. Only come if you are in for a good time, and bring your friends along.
Book your slot now! Call / whatsapp 0740369537

iNTHEWILD

World Save the Frogs Day | National Museums of Kenya | Friday 2 May | 9am

iNQUISITIVE

Anime Trivia Night| Artcaffe Market, Rhapta Sq. | Saturday 3 May | 5 – 10pm

Gather your crew for a fun, fast-paced evening of anime facts, laughs, and friendly competition with a chance to seize the glory of victory – and a special prize!

iNDULGE

Labour Day Special | Under the Swahili Tree | Thursday 1 May | All day

Enjoy the special Labour Day BBQ dishes at great prices: Nyama Choma, BBQ Chicken, Chicken Tikka, Halloumi Skewers & 18pc Wing Platter. The kids will surely want to indulge in the new flavours of the Ice-Cream Library & the all-new Boba Bar. The Bouncy Castle will be up!

Pizza & Pitchers | The Living Rooms | Friday 2 May | 2 – 10pm

Friday plans?? PIZZA & PITCHERS 🍕🍺🍹 with @geco.central @254brewingco. Slices, sips, and sounds, all day long. Ease into the weekend with delicious Geco Central pizzas and pitchers of our special house sangria or 254 beer, chill-out grooves, and board games. Whether it’s a long lunch, a laid-back sundowner, or an easy dinner — bring your appetite, a friend (or date), and stay for the vibes.

🎧 Sounds by: DJ Mack Lean + special guests 🎲 Games on hand.  Reservations are KSh 4,000, admitting two people. Your ticket reserves a table at a specific time and is fully redeemable for 2 pizzas + 1 pitcher (house sangria or 254 beer). Plus, enjoy surprise pizza slices on the house throughout the day! Reservations via 🔗 link in bio.

Gina VS Kev: Bar Takeover | KO Kraftroom & Kocktail Bar | Friday 2 May | From 5pm

The countdown is on! This Friday, all roads lead to The Kraftroom for Gina & Kev’s epic bar takeover. What’s on the lineup? All-night happy hour on selected cocktails, signature drinks crafted just for the night, and a fire DJ set by Mura.

The Wonder of Japan | Artcaffe Market, Rhapta Rd. | Saturday 3 & Sunday 4 May | 10am – 6pm

On 3th & 4th May, The Artcaffé Market at Rhapta Square transforms into a celebration of Japanese culture — and you’re invited for a weekend of flavours, traditions, and delightful discoveries.

🍵Matcha Tasting Tea Ceremony: Discover the mindful ritual of matcha, a serene tasting rooted in centuries of tradition.
🍣Sushi Roll Making: Learn the delicate art of sushi making — and craft your very own rolls!
🐙Takoyaki Making: Get hands-on with the playful world of takoyaki, Japan’s beloved street snack.
🍶Sake Tasting: Savour the rich, layered flavours of traditional Japanese sake.
🎌 Anime Trivia Night on 3rd for all Anime lovers, put your knowledge to test!

Plus, explore over 40 new and exciting Japanese products curated just for you. With @chiq_japanese_restaurant and @moviejabber.

The Taste Off – Live Cooking Challenge | Rosslyn Square Farmers’ Market | Saturday 3 May | 11 AM – 4 PM

Join the community for a sizzling showdown! Live Filming On Site! Watch chefs go head-to-head using fresh, local ingredients from our farmers and food vendors. Local, seasonal flavor! Bold moves! Farm-to-fork action! Come hungry. Leave inspired.

iNTHEARTS

Deep Fake / Brave New World | Alliance Française | Friday 2 May | 6pm | Exhibition Until 11 May

In today’s world, where visuals can mislead, how do we protect our grasp on reality? Karibuni to the world of ‘DeepFake’. Can you tell what’s real? Engage with expert insights from AFP, RFI Kiswahili, Africa Check and Africa Uncensored as we discuss the impact of AI on press freedom, media and public information, followed by exhibition opening reception.

The Ties That Bind | Goethe Institut | Opening Saturday 3 May | 2 – 5pm

“The Ties That Bind” – a showcase of the artists that were part of the Sasa Nairobi Fellowship. Initiated by the Goethe-Institut to bridge the gap between artistic theory and practice, the year-long programme offered five artists an opportunity to develop their practice and engage more deeply with artistic discourses and research-based approaches.

Bringing together their practices, the exhibition is diverse in aesthetics and themes – each piece an invitation into a unique artistic realm, but also an opportunity to see what unites these young upcoming artists.

Beyond the exhibition opening, there will be a whole range of activities within the framework programme of the exhibition, amongst them artist talks with all the participating artists, delving deep into the development of the practice and how the programme has influenced their approach.

Dark Colours Bring Waters | Njenga Ngugi | Kamene Cultural Centre | Opening Saturday 3 May | 6 – 10pm

“I’m currently deep in my residency—and what a journey it’s been. I’ve learned so much about my creative process, and I’m profoundly grateful for the opportunity to bring my vision to life.” – Njenga Ngugi

The show runs till 31st May, 2025

Surviving Death | Shah Houses, Ngara | 3 & 4 May | 7pm

Surviving Death is a bold, immersive choral and projection performance featuring the Africa premiere of The Ascendant — a searing, otherworldly work by award-winning composer Wally Gunn. This is a rare chance to experience a genre-defying choral work never before heard on African stages — performed by an ensemble of powerful young voices and brought to life through visual art, sound design, and sacred stillness. Blending contemporary composition with traditional African repertoire, Surviving Death invites audiences into a soundscape shaped by grief, resistance, and the fragile beauty of being alive. It’s a space to gather, to mourn, to feel, and to witness something wholly new.
Tickets at fullcircle.hustlesasa.shop
IG: @surviving__death

A debut production by musician and director Awuor Onguru @daluikkot .
The first of its kind in the country. A night not to be missed.

Nyerere Michael Pop Up | Embe Creatives | Saturday 3 May | 10am – 6pm

Brand new merch designs — fresh drops, limited pieces, and good vibes only.

iNACTION

Prayer Garden Golf | Muthaiga Golf Club | Friday 2 May

This Friday 2nd May, Swing with Purpose and be part of something greater. Support the construction of the St. Austin’s Prayer Garden at the Prayer Garden Golf Tournament at the Muthaiga Golf Club!
Entry – Kes 5,000
Cause – Build the St. Austins Prayer Garden.
Slots are filling up fast! Sign up Today!

The Oaks Ladies Day (Horse Racing) | Ngong Racecourse | Sunday 4 May | From 12pm

Celebrate ~Ladies Day~ in style during an afternoon of exciting horse racing, tantalising food and drink, a curated pop-up market, and family-friendly entertainment. Don’t miss sundowners and more during the afterparty from 5 PM at East Africa’s only horse racing track. Tikiti day tickets. | Ticketsasa Afterparty tickets.

Note:
* Dress code – Smart Casual
* All student ticket holders must show physical student ID
* Tikiti tickets valid until 5 pm on race day
* No pets allowed
* No outside food / drink permitted

Mt Longonot Ultra Run or Day Hike | The Outdoor Tribe | Saturday 3 May

Ultra or Hike, what’s your poison this Saturday at Longonot? Whether you’re chasing the burn or soaking in the views, pick your pace and own it. The mountain is calling, will you rise to the challenge? Booking required

iNGEAR

Geco Car 46 Hangout | Lukenya Hills Campsite | Sunday 4 May | 10am – 10pm

Rev your engines and we’ll fire up the grill! Join us for the ultimate 4×4 Fundraising Hangout, where off-road adventure meets epic beats and sizzling BBQ! Come support a great cause while enjoying top DJs, delicious bites, and a thrill-packed day with fellow off-road enthusiasts. We Shall be having ruffle prizes being sold from today so don’t miss it!
Purchase your tickets on gecotribe.hustlesasa.shop .

iNTROSPECTION

Kipopeo Workshop | The Nest, Karen | Saturday 3 May | 10am – noon

Join Tash and Chania for a gentle and empowering morning as we explore the powerful concept of aligning with your soul’s deepest aspirations. Tap into clarity and intention through a blend of Qigong, guided meditation, reflective exercises, and creative expression – all designed to help you step boldly into the life you envision. Refreshments provided

To reserve your spot, contact: Chania – ‪+254 (0) 704 479 482‬ or Natasha – +254 (0) 795 835 174

Power of Embodiment | Kanga Studio | Sunday 4 May | 8:30 – 11:30am

Step into your power of embodiment –  a deep journey from mind knowing to heart cognising with the quantum energetic facilitator Akiko Shirai van der Heijden. Awaken your senses, reconnect to your true self, and experience magic through mindfulness and movement.  Reserve your space and rise in your body together.

For Booking: Kanga Studio 0759956291 kangastudio.co/nairobi
For questions about workshop: Akiko 011364251

Sunday Moves | Hob House | Sunday 4 May | 4pm

Join us every Sundays at 4pm …. Learn and explore the different modalities of yoga, self-care, healing.
Donation based sessions that allow you to explore and meet others in the community. This Sunday, practice Buti Yoga with Anastasia.