The New Year arrived in Nakuru to the familiar soundtrack of cheers, music and bursts of fireworks as residents welcomed 2026 with colour and celebration. For some, the festivities stretched beyond midnight into January 1, as the town slowly eased into the year ahead.

At White House Estate, small groups of friends gathered to mark the moment. Among them was Jakes Ogol, who chose a relaxed start to the year, sharing drinks and conversation with friends.

“Last year was good to me, I decided to take this time to celebrate and also recharge so I can get ready for what this year brings,” he says.

Nearby, Ann Wambui was equally determined to savour the day. Working in the hospitality industry, she said the New Year’s celebration marked her last break before returning to duty.

“I report back to work on Saturday, so this is the last day I can really party. I want to make it count,” she says.

In the city centre, however, the pace was noticeably slower. Many shops remained closed, reflecting the lingering holiday mood. Streets were quieter than usual, with only a few businesses opening their doors.

Michael Waweru opening his shop on News Years day.

Photo credit: Bret Sanya/Mtaa Wangu

Along Kenyatta Avenue, Michael Waweru was already back to work, carefully dusting blazers displayed outside his shop. For him, January 1 offered little room for rest.

“I don’t have the luxury of staying at home. I have to work, especially with back-to-school shopping coming up. I need to plan ahead,” he says.

On Moi Road near Tower One, a popular street photography spot, the atmosphere was more festive. Families, couples and groups of friends queued patiently for photographs, capturing the first memories of the year.

Martin Maina had brought his family into town to celebrate together, continuing a tradition he has kept for years.

“Every year, I spend the first day of the year with my family. We try something different each time. Last year we went to Elementaita, and today we plan to visit Lake Nakuru National Park.”

Businesses remain closed on New Year's Day.

Photo credit: Bret Sanya/Mtaa Wangu

Elsewhere, acts of kindness also marked the day. Nancy Ndegwa, popularly known as Mama Street, chose to usher in the year by spending time with street families, sharing food and offering basic grooming.

“Since 2022, we have made it a tradition to celebrate this day with them. We share food, shave their hair and simply spend time together so they don’t feel forgotten,” she says.

As Nakuru settles into the new year, the celebrations, quiet moments and early returns to work reflect a shared resolve to move forward. With optimism, responsibility and resilience, residents now turn their attention to the months ahead, ready to push through whatever the year may bring.

From Tower One snaps and Kenyatta Avenue suits: How Nakuru eased into 2026

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Bret Sanya