Kenya’s coastal region offers more than beautiful beaches, historic towns and ocean adventures. Every year, it also attracts music lovers, artists and cultural enthusiasts through exciting celebrations that bring people together. One of the most distinctive events is the Beneath the Baobabs Festival an international music and arts festival held in Kilifi, along Kenya’s Indian Ocean coast.
Scheduled from December 30, 2026 to January 1, 2027, the festival will welcome African and international performers for a unique end of year celebration. Set beneath ancient baobab trees overlooking Takaungu creek, the event combines electronic music, live performances, visual art, wellness and community experiences. It offers travellers an opportunity to welcome the new year while discovering the creative energy of coastal Kenya.
What to Expect at the Festival?
International and African Music Performances.
Music remains the heart of the festival. The festival brings together established and emerging artists who perform different genres including Afro-house, electronic music, hip-hop and other contemporary African sounds.
The advertised 2026 line up includes artists such as Alewya, DJ Lag, Ghedi, Lil Maina, Konvex, Mia Koden, Muzi, Vigro Deep and Umoja sound system. Their performances will create an energetic atmosphere for audiences looking to experience diverse musical styles.
Local and regional DJs will also contribute to the festival’s sound, giving East African talent an opportunity to share the stage with international performers.
Art, Creativity and Cultural Expression.
Beyond music, the festival provides space for visual art, creativity installations and artistic collaborations. These experiences encourage visitors to explore different forms of expression while appreciating the relationship between contemporary creativity and African cultural identity.
The event also provides opportunities for emerging artists and creative entrepreneurs to connect with wider audiences.
Wellness and Community Experiences.
The festival experience extends beyond dancing and entertainment. Its wellness activities create opportunities for visitors to slow down, relax and reconnect with themselves and their surroundings.
Through movement, creative workshops and wellness experiences, participants can enjoy a balance between energetic performances and personal wellbeing.
Camping Beneath the Baobab Trees.
Accommodation forms part of the festival experience. Visitors can choose from available on-site camping arrangements, including organised tent packages and options for bringing their own tents. The venue also offers selected permanent accommodation.
Camping allows festival-goers to remain close to the entertainment while enjoying the natural surroundings. Travellers should check accommodation availability and booking conditions early because spaces can be limited.
Why the Festival Matters to Kenya’s Tourism Industry.
Cultural and entertainment events contribute to tourism by attracting visitors who want experiences beyond traditional sightseeing. Beneath the Baobabs Festival supports this form of tourism by bringing international audiences to Kilifi during the festive season.
The event creates opportunities for local accommodation providers, restaurants, transport operators, artists and other businesses to benefit from increased visitor activity. It also promotes Kilifi as a destination for creative tourism, helping diversify Kenya’s coastal tourism experiences.
Furthermore, the festival strengthens Kenya’s international image as a destination where music, culture, nature and entertainment come together.
Explore Kilifi Beyond the Festival.
Visitors attending Beneath the Baobabs Festival can extend their stay to discover Kilifi’s coastal attraction. The town offers beautiful beaches, ocean activities, historical sites and opportunities to experience local Swahili culture.
Travellers can explore Kilifi creek, visit the historic Mnarani ruins, enjoy boat excursions or relax along the Indian ocean coastline. Those with additional time can travel to Watamu and Malindi for marine experiences, beach holidays and visits to protected coastal ecosystems.
Combining the festival with these attractions creates a rewarding holiday that brings together entertainment, relaxation and cultural discovery.
Welcome the New Year at Beneath the Baobabs Festival.
Beneath the Baobabs Festival offers a memorable way to close the year and welcome a new beginning. Its combination of international music, African creativity, wellness and natural beauty makes it one of Kenya’s distinctive coastal entertainment experiences.
For travellers seeking a different kind of new year celebration, Kilifi provides an exciting destination where music meets nature and cultures connect beneath ancient trees. The 2026 edition promises another opportunity to experience the energy of Kenya’s creative scene while discovering the beauty of its coastline.