What Is a Commonly Celebrated Holiday in Rwanda?

One of the most significant national commemorations in Rwanda is Kwibuka, the National Commemoration of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. Kwibuka begins on April 7th and extends over a period of 100 days, reflecting the duration of the genocide itself. While the first week is the most intense with national ceremonies, commemorative events continue throughout the period.

During this time, people across the nation honor the lives lost, reflect on the country’s history, and promote unity and peace through candlelight vigils, memorial walks, and educational programs. While national ceremonies are held in Kigali and major towns, smaller community gatherings occur across rural areas. It’s not a festive holiday in the traditional sense, but rather a solemn and powerful national period of remembrance. It is appropriate for guests to watch or to join respectfully in public ceremonies, mainly at the Kigali Genocide Memorial.

Other notable holidays in Rwanda include:

Independence Day (July 1st)
Liberation Day (July 4th)
Christmas (December 25th)

If you plan to go to Rwanda during any of these holidays, Kwibuka being one of them, you will have a chance to know its culture better and see how Rwanda has grown through persistence and hope.

Planning your trip?

With a simple online visa application through Rwanda Immigration Services, you can prepare to visit Rwanda and experience both its moving history and inspiring resilience firsthand.