Things to do in Nakuru this weekend: From spoken word to Hell's Gate Biking Fest

Nakuru iko na form this weekend, na kama hujapata plan bado here is the scoop. From brain-teasing quiz nights, spoken word poetry to art, music, and outdoor adventures in Naivasha, the city has lined up a full package of entertainment.

The weekend kicks off this Friday with a battle of wits at the Terrace Lounge at the Merica Hotel. It's not your usual trivia night, with categories such as 'August in History', 'Let's Get Sporty', 'Famous Landmarks', 'When They Were Young', and even throwback 2000s tracks for a dose of nostalgia.

Teams of two to 12 people can register, enjoy happy hour and compete for prizes in a fun, social atmosphere. It's a great way to get the weekend off to a fun start.

Later in the evening, the focus shifts to Baraza Media Lab, where the stage will come alive with 'Poets You Should Know' from 5pm. This edition features Belvin Thee Poet, who will bring her unique voice and storytelling to an audience in Nakuru.

For lovers of words, rhythm and meaning, it's the perfect cultural fix before the city dives headfirst into Saturday's activities.

Saturday starts on a gentler note with Paint & Plant at FHOK (opposite East Mark Hotel). Guests can paint their own terracotta pot, plant a succulent and take it home. The event is relaxed, creative and ideal for either a group outing or a romantic date.

From 2:30 pm, the focus shifts to The Barn BBQ & Lounge for the Nakuru Showcase. Local talent will take to the stage to perform music and art that bring the city’s culture to life. This is the kind of event where you can really feel the heartbeat of Nakuru’s creative scene.

Also returning this weekend for food lovers is the Nakuru Food Festival 2.0, which is taking place at The Barn BBQ & Lounge on Saturday and Sunday. There will be a variety of cuisines to sample, as well as music and a Kids' Corner.

Later in the evening, the party will reach its peak at The Lawns Garden, Milimani, with the Naxouse Glow in the Dark Edition. This special showcase will feature powerful performances from Henayä, Chemzzy, Slim B, Tribesmen, African Plato, Storrytym and Giggx.

With a dress code of neon outfits, it promises to be the ultimate Naxouse-style celebration to end August.
 
For adrenaline lovers, the Hell's Gate Biking Fest is the place to be. Taking place throughout the weekend at Hell's Gate National Park in Naivasha, it features cycling races, fun rides, bonfires, camping, food stalls and live music, all set against one of Kenya's most breathtaking landscapes. The festival is family- and group-friendly, making it an ideal escape from city life.

The weekend will wrap up with the Kijani Kibichi Concert at Baraza Media Lab. Music lovers can look forward to seeing Blakman and Mystical Band perform live, as well as enjoying an art market, film screenings and environmental talks. The Smart Puppeteers will also be there, adding a unique creative flair and providing a great way to round off the weekend.

Whatever your plans, whether it's relaxation, creativity, or outdoor fun, it's all here.