Mbale City, Uganda — From September 5th to 7th, 2025, the slopes of Mount Elgon will come alive with colour, rhythm, and culture as the Elgon Festival 2025 unfolds at the Elgon Museum in Mbale City. Under the guiding theme “Safeguarding Culture, Driving Creativity,” this three-day festival is set to become a landmark event for the region—blending traditional heritage with contemporary artistic expression.
The festival will be officially flagged off by Umukuka III, the revered cultural leader of the Bamasaaba, lending great honour and authenticity to the occasion. His participation underscores the festival’s deep-rooted cultural significance and its commitment to preserving the identity of the people of Elgon and beyond.
At the core of the celebration is the Glorious Renaissance Parade, a spectacular procession that will bring together a wide range of ethnic communities from across the Elgon region. These include the Bamasaaba (Bagisu), Sabiny (Sebei), Bagwere, Japhadhola, Basoga, Banyoli (Banyole), Ateso (Teso), Karamojong, and Samia—each contributing their unique dances, attire, and traditions. In a powerful show of regional solidarity, the parade will also feature visiting cultural groups from Kenya and Congo, including the Chuka, Pokot, Lega, and Shi. Their participation reflects the festival’s growing role as a unifying cultural force across East and Central Africa.
More than just a showcase, the Elgon Festival is a living commitment to cultural preservation. Elders and traditional custodians will pass down oral histories, rituals, and folklore, while the youth bring fresh energy and innovation. One of the highlights will be the Afrofusion Fashion and Hair Show, where traditional styles will be reimagined through contemporary fashion and bold personal expression. It’s a vivid demonstration of how culture can evolve while staying grounded in its roots.
The music lineup promises to captivate audiences of all ages. Some of the region’s most exciting talents—Joshua Baraka, Titus Vybes, Matata 24, Rody Gavana, and DJ Roja, will take the stage, fusing Afrobeats, East African rhythms, and global contemporary sounds. Their performances are expected to bridge generations, ensuring the festival speaks to modern youth without losing the heartbeat of tradition.
With its home at the Elgon Museum and the stunning backdrop of Mount Elgon, the festival also positions Mbale City as a top destination for cultural tourism. Visitors will enjoy more than performances—they’ll be invited to explore local attractions such as Sipi Falls, Wanale Ridge, coffee trails, and traditional markets. The influx of tourists is set to boost local hotels, restaurants, and small enterprises, reinforcing the festival’s economic and community impact.
According to Steven Masiga, spokesperson of the Bugisu Cultural Institution, the festival is not just an event, but a call to all Bamasaaba and non-Bamasaaba alike. “We are mobilising every living Umumasaba, young and old, to take part in this extraordinary celebration of identity,” he said.
His message echoed the sentiment of Hon. Priscilla, Minister of Museums in the Bugisu Cultural Institution, who affirmed that “without culture and heritage, we are nothing.” She further outlined the festival’s activities, describing them as a revival of pride, unity, and shared history.
As anticipation builds, the Elgon Festival 2025 stands as a beacon of cultural pride and innovation, weaving together communities across borders into a powerful tapestry of identity, creativity, and resilience. From September 5th to 7th, all roads lead to Mbale City, where tradition meets tomorrow, and the spirit of Elgon rises.
