The starting gun has fired and the last runner has crossed the finish line, but the energy from the #TuskerLiteRwenzoriMarathon is just the beginning. Uganda’s vibrant calendar of events is shifting into high gear, promising an exciting lineup of sports, culture, music, and tourism from August through October 2025.
Whether you’re a local looking for a new adventure or a visitor planning an unforgettable trip, here’s your essential guide to the must-attend events across the Pearl of Africa.
A Swing and a Beat: Sports and Spectacles
The competitive spirit continues with the Uganda Golf Open at the luxurious Lugazi Hills Golf & Country Club, running from August 22 to September 13. For rugby fans, the Nile Special Uganda Rugby Sevens Series is a nationwide tour of thrilling action, kicking off in Entebbe (Aug 30-31), moving to Jinja (Sept 6-7), then Kabale (Sept 20-21), and culminating in a grand finale in Kampala (Sept 27-28).
And for a truly unique experience, don’t miss the Rhino Naming Ceremony on September 24 at the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary—a chance to witness conservation in action and meet Uganda’s beloved rhinos.
Culture and Celebration: A Nation’s Heartbeat
Uganda’s rich cultural tapestry takes center stage this season. The picturesque Fort Portal City hosts two events on September 10: the stylish Hats and Shorts gathering and the immersive Ekyoto Ha Mpango festival, which runs until September 14.
Later in the month, the Karamoja Cultural Festival (Sept 22-27) in Nakapiripirit offers a deep dive into the unique traditions of the Karamojong people. In Kampala, the Film & Culture Market Edition 4 at the National Theatre (Sept 15-17) will showcase local creative talent.
Beauty and heritage combine at the Miss Tourism Uganda Grand Finale at the Kampala Serena Hotel on September 5.
Music, Festivals, and City-Wide Parties
Get ready for an electrifying night as international R&B star Craig David performs at the Kampala Serena Hotel on August 29. The party continues into October with the return of the massive Kampala City Festival on October 5, transforming the city’s streets into a celebration of music, food, and art.
For a curated cultural experience, the Vumbula Uganda Festival at Ndere Cultural Center (Oct 9-11) promises a beautiful showcase of local traditions. Meanwhile, Gulu City invites everyone to its Marathon & Octoberfest from October 6-14, combining athleticism with festive cheer.
Spotlight on Tourism
The tourism sector has much to celebrate. World Tourism Day will be hosted in Arua City on September 27, with a media launch scheduled for September 2 at the Tourism Information Center near Sheraton Kampala.
The industry will also mark a significant milestone as the Association of Uganda Tour Operators (AUTO) celebrates 30 years at the Méstil Hotel in Kampala on October 17. Content creators and travel enthusiasts should also mark their calendars for the Africa Travel Content Creator Conference 2025 at the Kampala Protea Hotel Skyz from October 22-25.
Plan Your Adventure
With such a diverse array of events, there’s something for everyone to discover. This is the perfect time to explore Uganda’s dynamic spirit beyond its incredible wildlife and landscapes.
For more information and to stay updated on these events, visit exploreuganda.com/events/.
