Uganda’s Bayimba International Festival of the Arts will return to Lunkulu Island from 28 to 30 August 2026, with programming across music, film, fashion, visual art and other creative disciplines at the Bayimba Centre on the shores of Lake Victoria.
The three-day event will present more than 20 Ugandan and international acts across several stages, alongside exhibitions, workshops, industry discussions and cultural activities. The programme pairs live performances with opportunities for audiences to engage with artists and other creative practitioners.
Main stage and late-night line-up
- Main stage: Dr Jose Chameleone, Karole Kasita, Winnie Nwagi, Feffe Bussi, John Blaq, Ava Peace, Kataleya & Kandle, Lily Kadima, Pretty Banks, Nilotika Ensemble and Mimi Kampala.
- Late-night DJs: Sheila Gashumba, DJ Kayrah, Shie Money, MaryJo, Dark Empress and Anitrax.
Themed spaces
- Wakaliwood Village: film screenings, set tours, special-effects workshops, stunt demonstrations, green-screen acting sessions and discussions with filmmakers.
- Nilotika Cultural Village: artisan networking and recycling workshops, traditional dance and fashion-recycling masterclasses.
- Princess Elizabeth Bagaya Fashion House: industry panel discussions.
- Open Spaces Exhibition: contemporary visual art, sculpture and live graffiti.
Night-time tours will include illuminated installations around the island.
Emerging creatives and wellness
Bayimba will continue its focus on developing opportunities for emerging creatives, particularly young women working in music, film and design. The programme will connect emerging artists with established industry figures through mentorship, shared performances and networking opportunities.
At Bukunja Beach, visitors can take part in beach volleyball, evening storytelling sessions and nightly reggae beach parties. Yoga and physical activities will be available at the football pitch on Saturday and Sunday mornings and afternoons.
The event combines music, arts, professional development and outdoor activities, and its island setting places performances, exhibitions, workshops and recreation in a natural environment.
Tickets
Early-bird passes cost 30,000 Ugandan shillings (about $8), while gate passes cost 50,000 Ugandan shillings. Tickets are available through Quicket, with further information on travel and festival arrangements available from Bayimba.
