Living Traditions
Rwanda's Festivals
Click any card to explore the full story, celebrations, accommodation and contacts.
June Every YearKwita Izina (Gorilla Naming)
Newborn gorillas receive Kinyarwanda names at Rwanda's most celebrated annual ceremony — a global conservation event.
August · First FridayUmuganura
Rwanda's ancient harvest thanksgiving — traditional food, sorghum beer, music and dance across the entire nation.
Year-Round · Living TraditionIntore Dance
The spectacular warrior dance of the "chosen ones" — Rwanda's greatest cultural art form with colobus headdresses and deep drumming.
September Every YearKigaliUP Music Festival
East Africa's most exciting music festival — Afrobeats, jazz and contemporary artists across Kigali's vibrant venues.
Last Saturday Each MonthUmuganda (Community Day)
The national tradition that keeps Rwanda spotlessly clean — visitors can join local communities every last Saturday morning.
Year-Round TrekkingGorilla Trekking Experience
Not a festival, but a ritual — every gorilla trek is a life-changing encounter with one of Earth's most extraordinary beings.