Nyege Nyege Festival 2025 Bursts Into Life at its New Home Above Kalagala Falls
From vibrant fashion statements to pulsating beats echoing across the Nile, the opening day radiated the signature spirit that has come to define Nyege Nyege: freedom, creativity, and celebration of Africa’s thriving underground music scene.
The long-awaited Nyege Nyege Festival roared back to life yesterday, unleashing a wave of colour, music, and electrifying energy as thousands of revelers streamed into its brand-new home at Adrift Overland Camp & River Club. Perched high above the thunderous Kalagala Falls, the venue has set the stage for what many are already calling the most spectacular edition in the festival’s history.
From vibrant fashion statements to pulsating beats echoing across the Nile, the opening day radiated the signature spirit that has come to define Nyege Nyege: freedom, creativity, and celebration of Africa’s thriving underground music scene. Party lovers from Uganda, across East Africa, and beyond poured into the R. Nile shores ready for four days of music, culture, and unforgettable nightlife experiences.
Streamlined Access and New Logistics for 2025
To ensure smooth and secure entry, organizers have centralized all ticketing and parking at Kangulumira, the main access point for the festival. A dedicated shuttle system has been rolled out to ferry attendees from Kangulumira directly to Kalagala Falls, guaranteeing a seamless and comfortable flow of revelers into the heart of the event. This year’s arrangement has been praised for reducing congestion and enhancing safety, especially given the festival’s expected record turnout.
A Festival Rooted in Innovation and Cultural Diversity
Since its inception in 2014, Nyege Nyege has positioned itself as a powerhouse for African alternative and electronic music. Founded by Arlen Dilsizian and Derek Debru—immigrants who sought to create a platform for outsider music—the collective has grown into an international cultural movement. Beyond the festival, Nyege Nyege runs two record labels, curates experimental parties throughout the year, and operates an artist residency dedicated to nurturing new talent from across the continent.
The annual festival is the crown jewel of this ecosystem. Now globally recognized, it brings together artists from Africa and the diaspora to showcase cutting-edge sounds, bold artistic expression, and Uganda’s unmatched cultural hospitality.
2025 Edition: A New Chapter at Kalagala Falls
Running from November 20–23, 2025, this year’s festival introduces a dramatic shift in scenery, replacing the previous forest and riverside settings with elevated cliffs, panoramic views, and the roaring backdrop of Kalagala Falls. The new setup at Adrift Overland Camp offers expanded stages, immersive lighting, and natural amphitheaters perfect for open-air performances.
Tickets for Nyege Nyege 2025 start at UGX 120,000, making the event accessible to both local enthusiasts and international tourists eager to experience one of Africa’s most unique cultural gatherings.
Setting the Pace for an Unforgettable Weekend
With day one already buzzing with explosive performances and diverse cultural showcases, the atmosphere suggests that the best is yet to come. Revelers can expect an expansive lineup spanning electronic, Afro-fusion, hip-hop, dancehall, traditional rhythms, and experimental sounds—alongside art installations, food markets, river activities, and themed nightlife zones.
As the festival continues over the next three days, Nyege Nyege 2025 promises to push artistic boundaries while reaffirming its mission: celebrating African creativity in all its forms.
From Kalagala’s mighty roar to the vibrant pulse of music lovers gathered from far and wide, one thing is clear—the Nyege Nyege spirit is alive, louder, and more magical than ever.