Things to do in Nairobi this weekend: 15 – 18 May

iNTHEDARK

Thursday Wind Down | bamba | Thursday 15 May | 8pm

@deejayjosay on the decks, spinning smooth R&B and hip hop all night. Come through for good vibes, good people, and great music.

Kaskazini Sessions | Alchemist | Thursday 15 May | 8pm – close

Kaskazini Sessions with @feischer.kenya & @hanuman_prana on the Main Stage.

Su Casa | Sinnerman | Alchemist | Thursday 15 May | 8pm til late

@sucasa.254 at @sinnerman.ke

Thursday Lates | The Living Rooms | Thursday 8 May | 6pm – late

Ease into the evening with R&B, soul, and laid-back grooves with @shishiwanj on decks. Enjoy @shishiwanj Geco slices, sips, and sounds all day long.

Reggae Night ft. DJ Deenox | 1865 Pub, Karen Village | Thursday 15 May | 8pm til close

House Piano X Oontz EDM | Soho | Thursday 1 May

SOHO GOES SUPERNOVA THIS THURSDAY! @shishiwanj brings the heat, @suraj.kenya channels the deep, @mgmkenya commands the crowd, and @nastynatetz jets in from Tanzania to detonate the dancefloor. This lineup is a declaration of party don’t stop till morning come!… Don’t miss..Tickets  link in bio!

One Love Thursday | K1 Klubhouse | Thursday 15 May

We reggae up in a one love way . #onelovethursdays

The Mist | Weekend

Thursday 15 May: The Clearing | Friday 16 May: Sayari Sikhupi| Saturday 17 May: Closed

3-Step Theory | KODA | Friday 16 May | 9pm – 4am

he 3-Step Theory returns this Friday staring @zi.ggie, @mgmkenya, @wandvt & @murathedj dropping genre defining sets. Doors open at 9pm ‘til 4am.

Zahabu Sundowner | The Mall (Rooftop) | Friday 16 May | 4pm – midnight

Alternative perspectives, silky drums, crisp chops & head-nodders to sink out the sun this FRI w/ @gatthoni // @_marygaitho and @girlskate_nairobi pres. @lilywhite_sk

The Vinyl Cartel | The Living Rooms | Friday 16 May | 8pm

On Wax with @the_vinyl_cartelON WAX is back! Join us for an all-vinyl night on the 1s and 2s with Vinyl Cartel, spinning everything from rare groove and funk to global beats, old school classics, hip hop, and disco house — and everything nice on wax! Reservation Fee: KSh 500

Ny4sh | Shelter | Friday 16 May | 8pm – late

Have you saved the date? @ny4sh254 is at @shelterke on Friday May 16th – joined by none other than Big T, AKA @tindiszn ! Tindi is a Nairobi based Electronic music DJ who loves connecting with people through rhythm 💛 She’s a resident DJ at Oontztopia and if you’ve seen her performances at Blankets & Wine or Beneath the Baobabs, you know you’re going to be shaking. More DJ sets by @callmedjiv @kj.karuga @cocoem__ and @badman.bantou , plus special
guest @feelgoodkru . Get your advance tickets via @mookh.africa

DJ Kace | Alchemist | Friday 16 May

@deejaykacein the Place

Friends Night Out | Muze Club | Friday 16 May

Unite once again as Friends/Dancers at a venue we call home- @muzeclub Award winning DJ/Producer @djlesoul makes her return to Nairobi for this glorious link up where she’ll be ‘cooking’ alongside @afu.ke @_.bune @iamdrommer (and just when you thought it doesn’t get better) we have a NEVER before B3B experience by @_darkfruit @callmedjiv & @hiriba.e. Tickets available at FRIENDSOFWEKESA.HUSTLESASA.SHOP

DJ Aajyz| Wine & Bottle Westlands | Friday 16 May | 7pm

Cosmic Cuts | Shelter | Saturday 17 May

Nairobi fam, the wave to @boogie_festivals comes to you this weekend at @shelterke . Bring all the buddies and come share energy, connect, and dance to the our Friends@badman.bantou @itsmdny @the.house.chef_a.k.a_minwi@iamronny925@branislove@festivalistke.  Ticket link in bio.

KODA Pres. | KODA | Saturday 17  May | 9pm – 6am

Good Good Saturday| Alchemist | Saturday 17 May | From 3pm

Good Good with @mixmasterlenny & @shema_dj

Rock + R&B Sing-along | 254 Beer District | Saturday 17 May | 7 – 11pm

RnB ballads mixed with headbanging classics — Nairobi, its R&B runs and rock riffs only. Mic in one hand, drink in the other. Dresscode: LEATHER. Tickets very limited. Book on Hustlesasa.

Bobby Nsenga Experience | Alchemist | Sunday 18 May | 4pm til late

– @bobbynsenga Experience

Nairobi Hi-Fi | 270 Rooftop | Sunday 18 May | 12 – 8pm

Experience 270° Rooftop’s amazing Sunday Brunch menu or come for bites & drinks at their Sunset Bar while discovering a fine and diverse selection of tunes curated by Nairobi Hi-Fi. NAIROBI HI-FI is a Strictly No Genre Vinyl Session curated by @jonahleff and @jahm.eye with surprise set/s from good friends like @samthadigga, @dr.obwakss, @bizi_bingi

📍18th Floor, Escada, Lantana Road, Westlands

K1Sundaze| K1 Clubhouse | Sunday 18 May | From 4pm

iNTUNE

Royalty by Black | Geco Cafe | Thursday 15 May | 7pm

Musical, bold, and conscious are just but a few of the words that are often used to describe Royalty by Black. Using conscious reggae music as his tool, Royalty by black has made it his mission to educate, liberate, and awaken the consciousness of the African Mind.

The Don Sax | About Thyme | Thursday 9 May

Thursday nights = smooth sax & good vibes! Jazz it up this week with the unmistakable sounds of @thedonsax as you sip, dine, and unwind in our garden under the stars. Whether it’s a date night or a hangout plan, we’ve got the rhythm and the bites just right. Book your table now via www.about-thyme.com

Karaoke ft Fulky | Wine & Bottle Parklands | Thursday 15 May

Warning: killer vocals and questionable dance moves ahead.Sing like nobody’s watching (but we all totally are).Your stage. Your song. Your spotlight.
🎤 : @fulkynyapis

Jeff Lawgan | Alloy Bar & Lounge | Thursday 15 May | 8pm

How about another date this Thursday ? I will be performing an acoustic set, hope I’ll see you then , tell a friend to tell a friend Location @alloybarandlounge with @kingori_music & @ebe_music_ ,

Hot Sound Band | Wine & Bottle Parklands | Friday 16 May

Jamzy Band | 1865 Pub, Karen Village | Friday 16 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!

DIS N DAT LIVE | 254 Beer District | Sunday 18 May | From 3pm

Nairobi’s Unofficial Ministry of Blues & Shenanigans is clocking in. Expect raw blues, reckless charm, and just enough chaos to make your grandma dance.  3PM till we get shut down. Come for the music, stay for the stories.

Sukari Experience: Janey Sings | Kenya National Museum | Saturday 17 May | 4pm

Karaoke Competition |1865 Pub, Karen Village | Saturday 17 May | 7pm – late

Hosted by DJ Rage. Qualify for the final sing-off!

Makadem | Bamba | Sunday 18 April | 6pm

Bamba Sunday Sessions welcomes back @mak_adem, bringing his one-of-a-kind sound on guitar and nyatiti for a soulful evening of rhythm and storytelling.

Harmony of Her | Kenton College |  Sunday 18 May | 3pm

A much anticipated concert that celebrates the brilliance of women composers, from trailblazing pioneers to modern visionaries. Immerse yourself in works by Kenyan composer Dr. Nancy Day, and Ghanaian composer Genevieve Allotey-Pappoe, alongside classics from women who’ve shaped the sound of history. Tickets via Mpesa Till Number 4160232 (David). Adults 1500 | Kids 700

James Jozee & the Gogosimo Band | Bwibo Restaurant | Sunday 18 May | From 4pm

The amazing @Gogosimoband are ready for you!! Tell a friend to tell a friend. Show starts 4pm. ENTRY: FREE. Come early and enjoy all the amazing brunch offers and custom drinks.

GROOViN

Latino Night | Nairobi Street Kitchen | Thursday 15 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 072614878

Kizomba Na Casa | Location upon sign up | Saturday 17 May | 6pm – 2am

Kizomba musicality workshop 7 -8pm. Social + Bonfire 8pm – 2am. Mpesa Paybill 826900 Account: Your Name.

iNJEST

Comedy at the Capital | Capital Club East Africa| Friday 16 May  | 7pm

iNSTAGES

Oliver! | Braeburn Theatre | Friday 16, Saturday 17 & Sunday 18 May | Showtimes vary

Step back in time to Victorian London care of the Braeburn Players and rediscover the magic of Oliver! – the beloved musical that has captured hearts for generations. With its unforgettable songs, charming characters, and a story full of adventure, laughter, and heart, this is a show the whole family will love. Read more about this production in this article and secure your tickets at theatres.braeburn.com

Vienyeji Promax | Alliance Francaise | Saturday 17 & Sunday 18 May | 3 & 6 pm

Get ready to laugh out loud! Vienyeji Pro Max hits the stage this weekend at Alliance Française — a bold Kenyan twist on Molière’s classic comedy. Free entry with registration.

Brave New World | An immersive theatre & dining experience | Saturday 17 May | 4pm

SCREENiNG

HANAMI (2024) a film by Denise Fernandes | Unseen Nairobi | Thursday 15 May | 7pm

On a remote volcanic island from which everyone wants to leave, Nana learns to stay. Her mother Nia, who suffers from a mysterious illness, left shortly after her birth. When Nana comes down with a high fever, she is sent to the foot of a volcano for treatment. There, she encounters a world suspended between dreams and reality. Years later, when Nana is a teenager, Nia returns.

SKETCHY AFRICANS (2024) a film by Vincent Mbaya | Unseen Nairobi | Friday 16, 9pm | Saturday 17  & Sunday 18 May, 7pm

Sketchy Africans follows Miriam, a struggling entrepreneur trying to meet family expectations while juggling a failing business. Desperate for a solution, she teams up with her friend, a debt-ridden theatre director, to fake an engagement and stage a sham dowry ceremony.

See Also

Art Update

DAHOMEY (2024) a film by Mati Diop | Unseen Nairobi | Friday 16, 7pm | Saturday 17, 9pm | Sunday 18, 5pm

November, 2021. Twenty-six royal treasures of the Kingdom of Dahomey are about to leave Paris to return to their country of origin, the present-day Republic of Benin. Along with thousands of others, these artifacts were plundered by French colonial troops in 1892. But what attitude to adopt to these ancestors’ homecoming in a country that had to forge ahead in their absence? While the soul of the artifacts is freed, debate rages among students of the University of Abomey-Calavi.

iNTHEARTS

 No Return Ticket | Sheila Bayley| Under the Swahili Tree (Karen)| Thursday 15 May | 6pm

See Bayley’s paintings with her distinctive style—characterized by intricate black linework and vibrant colors—reflecting her internal landscape of fragmentation and connection. Read more about Bayley’s work in our article in Art & Culture.

Between the Bars | Ndung’u Mbithi | Munyu Space | Opening reception Thursday 15 May, 6pm | Exhibition continues through 31 May

Between the Bars is the first solo exhibition by multidisciplinary artist and musician Ndung’u Mbithi ( @ndungumbithi ). Through weaving, painting, installation, and object-based assemblage, the exhibition meditates on the themes of alcoholism, mental health, shame, survival, and healing.

The exhibition’s title refers to both personal history and cultural references: “Chairkicker” is the artist’s visual alter ego—born from past experiences with suicidality—while “Between the Bars” alludes to Elliott Smith’s song of the same name, often regarded as an intimate portrait of addiction and emotional vulnerability. The artworks are constructed using found and repurposed materials such as sisal, wood, paper, and domestic remnants. These materials, often fragile or forgotten, echo the precarity and persistence of those navigating recovery and relapse.

At its core, Between the Bars is a spatial confession—transforming pain into presence, memory into monument. It invites the viewer into a world where support systems are makeshift, stories are threaded into objects, and healing is a quiet act of resistance.

Woodcarving workshop with Sammy Mutinda | Goethe-Institut Auditorium | Friday 16 May | 3 – 6pm

In “Light and Voices of Creation” currently showing as part of “The Ties that Bind” exhibition, Sammy Mutinda explores creation both as an act of making and as a sensory experience. Through carving, he inscribes time, labour, and memory into the surface of the wood, shaping a tactile narrative that speaks of both destruction and renewal. The use of sound adds another dimension to this dialogue. As echoes of presence, they form an auditory landscape that interacts with the physicality of the carved surfaces.

@squilahartist a is a visual artist known for his expressive abstract works. Inspired by nature and human behaviours, he explores woodcut block printing, sculpture, and other disciplines to create immersive visual experiences. His work pushes the boundaries of abstraction, playing with colour, form, and emotion to invite deeper engagement.

The Pencil & the Guitar | Alliance Française | Saturday 17 May | 2 – 5pm

Join REVEAL! Comics ConversationsEA May edition at the Multimedia Library of Alliance Française de Nairobi for a special Comics Conversation “THE PENCIL ✏️ & THE GUITAR 🎸” featuring Paul Kelemba – Maddo, Dan Muli, Wycotie and Igah S. Come learn about what they do after drawing their artwork. What do artists do when not drawing their comics? How do you wind down? With Mapolomoko Madd @nairobidhobi

Jua Kali | Nairobi Sketch Tour | Location on sign up | Saturday 17 May | 10:30am – 12:30pm

Closing out the first chapter going back to one of the most epic spots in this city. If you want to see the collective spirit of Nairobi with work, innovation, and industry then the juakali tour is for you. Visit the hallowed ground that is juakali. You probably have something in your house, or used something , or come into contact with something that’s been made here.
Sign up link in bio.

Open Studios | GoDown Arts Centre | Saturday 17 May | 11am – 5pm

Visit this iconic Nairobi art space where the artists will have printmaking, painting, sculpting and ‘Ask an Architect’ stations.

iNSTYLE

DIVA! Italian Glamour in Fashion Jewellery | Village Market, New Extension Gallery| Friday 16 May | 6:30pm | Exhibition open to general public Saturday 17 – Monday 19 May, 9am – 6pm

The grand opening of DIVA! Italian Glamour in Fashion Jewellery Organized with the Embassy of Italy in Nairobi, promoted by @italymfa and curated by Alba Cappellieri (@polimi ), the exhibition showcases 200+ iconic pieces from the golden age of Italian design to today’s digital trends. Discover creations by Versace, Gucci, Dolce & Gabbana, Missoni, Angela Caputi, Fiorucci, Ornella Bijoux and more! During the opening, curators Beatrice Rossato and Susanna Testa will guide us through the stories and inspirations behind these dazzling jewels. Live music by @proviolinist. Light refreshments to follow.

iN254

Out of Africa Picnic Farm Tour | Nando Farm, Kimbo Ruiru  | Saturday 17 May | 10am – 3pm

A curated event that allows you to explore and experience the world of Macadamia farming, and a picnic  location underneath lush Macadamia Orchards. DM for booking and enquiries. @outofafricakenya

PLAYiNG

The Matatu from Watamu Drove Into the Sea! | Kenya National Theatre | Friday 16 May,  7pm & Saturday 17 May, 10am & 4pm

Are you ready for an underwater ADVENTURE like no other? The Matatu from Watamu Drove Into the Sea! Hits the stage as a musical. Perfect for kids, families & the young at heart! Don’t miss this magical journey beneath the waves. Songs, dance and wild matatu madness await! Tell a friend. Bring the whole family. Let’s go to the sea… in a matatu!

Tickets: Ksh 1200 (Free seating) Book now: +254 782 700 452

DIVA! Creative workshop | Village Market Extension Gallery | Saturday 17 May | 2 – 5:30pm

Led by Riko Creations, this colourful creative activity will introduce kids to the art of jewellery-making. While they create their own pieces, parents can enjoy the exhibition DIVA! Italian Glamour in Fashion Jewellery.
Register emailing iicnairobi@esteri.it by Thursday, 15 May at 12 PM. Free entry – but spots are limited!

CRAFTiNG

Tie-n-Dye  Workshop | Garden Estate | Saturday 17 May | 2pm

Do you want to design and dye your own t-shirt or gift something hand-made by yours truly? Sign up for this unique tie-n-dye workshop this Saturday!

iNDULGE

Confit Boutique Brunch | Kali Works, Ngara | Saturday 17 May | 11am – 3pm

Boutique Brunch! Our newest thing kicks off this Saturday from 11, Start your weekend right with some top food, plus BOGOF drinks at Kali Works. Like we do for fashion and art, we don’t skimp on quality of ingredients or the love that is put into every item that goes from us to you. 📞 0706-126-432 to reserve

iNACTION

Stronger Together Cancer Support Run | Bao Box Cafe | Saturday 17 May | 7am

Lace up for a cause! EasyTax is proud to be one of the sponsors of this month’s cancer run in collaboration with @baoboxcafe @werunnairobi and @safari_lounge. Visit our stand during the run to learn more details on our upcoming Tax Clinic in June. Powered by @taxwiseafrica

Cycling for Safety | Meet at Shell, Opposite UoN Law School | Saturday 17 May | 9am

Join The Road Safety Awareness Cycling Events! A Cycling event will be held at the Shell Petrol Station opposite the University of Nairobi Law School, starting at 9:00 am. If you’re in Nairobi, feel free to swing by and be part of this wonderful initiative. Let’s ride safely together! If you would like to be part and parcel of this initiative kindly reach out to Critical Mass Nairobi.

iNGEAR

F1@K1 | K1 Clubhouse | Sunday 18 May | 4pm

The first race in Europe is set at the twisty roads of the Emilia-Romagna circuit in Italy. First of the triple header and best believe we have something in store for you . We bring the energy and emotion of Imola to @k1klubhouse in Nairobi this Sunday and we can’t wait to see you there.

CARS & F1 Viewing Party for the Formula 1 Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix | Masshouse Live | Sunday 18 May | Race start 5pm EAT

An electrifying F1 experience as the world’s fastest drivers take on one of the sport’s most iconic circuits! Expect high-speed action, premium vibes, big screens, and a venue built for adrenaline. RSVP: 0729 611 111

iNTROSPECTION

The Body Holds the Story | Zeiny Sher | Saturday 17 May | 6 – 8pm

The echos of past pain – stressful, overwhelming or traumatic can linger in our nervous system, shaping how we feel, relate and move through life. Join Zeiny Sher in a supportive space to explore and gently release the emotional and physical imprints of those experiences. Zeiny is a certified trauma informed somatic and energetic healer and therapist, a Reiki master healer, breath work and meditation facilitator, and a Life Force activation facilitator.

Om Chanting | with Khilan Shah | Saturday 17 May | 3 – 4pm

A powerful Om Chanting session with Khilan Shah in the garden! An ancient practice that promotes inner peace, mental clarity, emotional freedom, and physical wellbeing. Experience the profound energy of OM as it dissolves negativity and fills you with positivity. Like a prayer, these sacred vibrations can also be offered for the wellbeing of others. Donation based, contribute if you feel inspired.

ABOUT KHILAN :
Khilan is a teacher of Atma Kriya Yoga, initiated in 2014 into the ancient 5,000-year-old Kriya Yoga lineage by his Satguru, Paramahamsa Vishwananda—a realized and enlightened Spiritual Master and the founder of Bhakti Marga.

Ferment the Forest Finds: A TreeMendous Gut & Soul Revival | Saturday 17 May | 2 – 5pm

Join us for an afternoon of brewing & tasting wild ferments of indigenous trees decoctions, probiotic flavours, fermented tonics and probiotic fruit peels. Learn how to preserve seasonal herbs and indigenous vegetables using natural fermentation. Explore the connection between gut health, mental clarity & nature’s cycles. Come with a glass jar to take home your own fermentation starter.

Yin Yoga| Our WonderHouse | Sunday 18 May | 11am-12pm

Join us for a calming yoga experience designed to help you relax, release stress, and increase flexibility.This all-levels practice will gently guide you through movements to open the body and balance the chakras, leaving you feeling refreshed, centered, and more connected within.

Women’s Energy Healing Experience With Soreti B Kadir | Sunday 18 May | 3 – 5pm

Join us for a transformative session of channeled energy healing with storyteller and healer, Soreti B Kadir. This group experience offers a nurturing space for awakening and renewal. For reference to the practical style of the session, this is similar in modality to Reiki healing. You will be guided through a journey of energetic awakening, helping to clear blockages and reclaim your voice, inner gifts, and personal power. Whether you’re new to energy healing or have experienced it before, we welcome you to come join us with an open heart and a willingness to receive gentle, restorative energy.