Kenya rang in 2026 the way we love to do it—loud, bright, and together. From Nairobi’s skyline lighting up around midnight to the coast turning the oceanfront into a glowing stage, the country delivered fireworks scenes worth replaying.
Nairobi: The Skyline Showstoppers
1) GTC Towers, Westlands — “The skyline flex”
Westlands’ GTC area was one of the most-watched countdown spots this year, with fireworks bursting above the towers as crowds celebrated the first seconds of 2026. Social clips of the display spread fast, and it’s easy to see why—this one looked premium.
Where people watched from: around Westlands/Chiromo viewpoints and nearby roads(Expressway)
GTC complex in Westlands, Nairobi — one of the city’s most iconic backdrops for New Year fireworks.
2) UAP Old Mutual Tower, Upper Hill — The classic “midnight boom”
If there’s one Nairobi fireworks landmark that keeps showing up globally, it’s the Old Mutual Tower area. This year’s welcome-to-2026 display was widely circulated via international and local coverage.
Where people watched from: Upper Hill approaches and open vantage points nearby.
UAP Old Mutual Tower at night — a Nairobi landmark often associated with New Year fireworks viewing.
3) Two Rivers Mall, Runda — Family-friendly fireworks with huge crowds
Two Rivers pulled a massive crowd for the crossover, with fireworks clips circulating widely online.
Where people watched from: within the mall entertainment areas and open sections around the mall.
Two Rivers Mall, Nairobi — one of the busiest crossover hangout spots heading into 2026.
Coast: Oceanfront Fireworks = Different Levels
5) Mama Ngina Waterfront, Mombasa — Coast crossover done right
Mombasa’s Mama Ngina Waterfront delivered one of the most-talked-about coastal welcomes, with fireworks lighting up the sky above the shoreline as crowds celebrated into 2026. YouTube+1
Where people watched from: Mama Ngina Waterfront promenade areas (arrive early when it’s a big night).
Vibe: Ocean breeze, Swahili-coast energy, full-on celebration mode.
Beyond Nairobi & Mombasa: The Country Turned Up Too
Celebrations weren’t confined to the big two—Kisumu, Nakuru, Eldoret, Nyeri and other towns also ushered in 2026 with music, gatherings, prayer, and fireworks moments captured in local reporting. The Star+1
Quick Safety Notes (Because Fireworks Aren’t a Joke)
- Watch from open, safe vantage points (avoid crowded road edges and rooftops you’re unsure about).
- If you’re driving, park early and walk—midnight traffic gets chaotic fast.
- If you’re with kids: ear protection and keep a little distance from launch zones.
What’s Next? 🎭🎶
If your 2026 resolution is “more experiences,” we’re with you.
Check out the latest events and weekend plans on Kujivinjari—we’re curating what’s happening across Nairobi and beyond.