Park and Chill: From a random idea to a Nakuru sensation

When it comes to the party scene, Nakuru is a popular destination for some of the hottest events, one of which is the Park and Chill event. This event has quickly evolved from a simple idea into one of the most popular lifestyle events in the city's entertainment calendar, and it all started with a desire for something different.

According to co-founder DJ Sirme, the concept was born in mid-November last year, when he and his business partners, Chris Mbachu and Irene Omariba, decided that Nakuru needed a more relaxed alternative to the club scene.

“We wanted to create a space where people could sit in their cars, enjoy good music and experience something different,” says Sirme. “Something informal, unique, and community-driven.”

Their very first event, promoted with only three days' marketing, shocked even the organisers. Crowds poured into Ngata Farm, now Park and Chill’s official home turf, proving that Nakuru was ready for a new entertainment culture.

Since then, the event has grown into a regional lifestyle brand, expanding to venues such as Milimani and Lake Elementaita. The Elementaita camping edition remains their biggest crowd-puller yet, attracting revellers in record numbers. “People even camped out,” laughs Sirme. “It was the largest turnout we’ve ever had.”

Part of Park and Chill’s charm lies in its distinct setup: no packed clubs or flashing lights, just guests lounging in their cars under the open sky with a soundtrack of curated genres such as Amapiano, Afro House and Three-Step, as well as the occasional sensual R&B night.

“We don’t play normal club music,” Sirme emphasises. “Every edition has its own vibe.”

To keep things fresh, the team introduced themed nights — Mazda, Mercedes and Subaru — which were clever marketing hooks that attracted car enthusiasts. Owners of the fe

Ticketing has also evolved. What started as a charge per car is now a charge per person, with prices ranging from budget-friendly rates to KES 1,000 for major events such as Elementaita. 'It depends on the event and its setup,' explains Sirme.

However, the founders are thinking even bigger. As well as building a brand, they want to nurture Nakuru’s entertainment ecosystem by providing a platform for local DJs, influencers and creatives. They hope to export the Park and Chill experience beyond the county.

“Nakuru's entertainment scene has grown,” he says. “We want people to embrace what we’re building.”

Their core audience? Primarily a mature 25–30 age group who prefer a relaxed night out. Surprisingly, despite being outdoors, alcohol consumption at the event is minimal. “Most people leave around 10 or 11. We’ve never had incidents of people leaving drunk,’ says Sirme.

Weather remains their biggest challenge, with rain occasionally affecting attendance numbers. Nakuru's limited number of open-air venues near the central business district also forces the group to host events further out, even when fans request a town-friendly option.

Nevertheless, the momentum is unmistakable. As Park and Chill celebrates its anniversary, the founders are planning a new setup and an impressive DJ line-up from Nakuru and Nairobi.

“It’s going to be very different,” Sirme teases. “People will just have to come and see.”

With the festive season drawing crowds back home, Park and Chill is gearing up for one of its biggest events yet — a celebration of how a simple idea has turned into Nakuru’s newest cultural phenomenon.

atured model got in for free, and their friends followed.