The 18th edition of the Bayimba International Festival of the Arts, popularly known as the Bayimba Festival 2026, officially kicked off on Friday, August 28, at Lunkulu Island and is set to run until Sunday, August 30, 2026.
The three-day festival has transformed the scenic island, located around the Mukono and Buikwe area, into a major creative hub celebrating music, dance, theatre, film, fashion, photography, visual arts and other forms of artistic expression.
As of Saturday, August 29, the festival is in full swing on its second day, with performances and activities continuing after an exciting opening day.
Several Ugandan artists and creatives have taken part in the celebrations, with performances involving popular names including Karole Kasita and John Blaq attracting attention.
Beyond the music performances, the annual festival offers workshops, exhibitions and immersive creative experiences, bringing together artists and audiences from Uganda, East Africa and beyond.
The Bayimba Festival has grown into one of Uganda’s most recognised platforms for multidisciplinary arts, providing creatives with an opportunity to showcase their talent while connecting audiences with different forms of culture and artistic expression.
@brayzmedia Happening now at Bayimba Festival Day 1 at Lunkulu Island. #Bayimbafestival #Bayimbafestivalday1 #lunkuluisland ♬ original sound – eddykenzo
With one more day remaining, festival lovers are expected to continue flocking to Lunkulu Island for the grand finale on Sunday.
