Nakuru is easing gently into 2026. The first full weekend of the year has seen a noticeable slowdown across the town.

After the hustle and bustle of the festive season, which was characterised by heavy traffic and noise, many streets remain quiet as residents take time to recover from their December spending sprees, long holiday travels and the financial demands that come with the reopening of schools.

In the central business district, businesses are reopening, matatu stages are quieter than usual and popular social venues have yet to regain their usual crowds.

Despite the subdued pace, the weekend is not entirely without activity. Several small, community-focused events are offering residents modest but meaningful ways to ease into the new year.

On Saturday January 10, cycling enthusiasts and first-time riders will take to the roads for a Beginners' Bike Ride organised by Friends of Benitto. The ride will start at Section 58 and head towards Kabarak, beginning at 9am.

With an entry fee of Sh100 organisers say the event is designed to promote fitness, safe cycling and community bonding at an affordable cost, with bike rentals available for those without their own.

On Sunday January 11, Link Up Africa will host a Vision Board Event at Kivulini Gardens, offering a more reflective and social experience. This creative session will help participants map out their goals for 2026. For Sh1,000 per person, attendees will receive vision board materials, a light lunch and free photography.

The organisers say that the event responds to a growing desire for intentional planning after a challenging economic period.

On the same day, Tumaini Cottage in Nakuru is hosting a team-building event for families, offering organised games, swimming, lunch and transport to and from Nakuru town. Tickets cost Sh450 for children and Sh920 for adults, making this one of the few family-friendly recreational activities available this weekend.

Also scheduled for Sunday is the Nakuru Babes Picnic, an outdoor gathering for girls only, set to take place at Lord Egerton Castle.

The picnic is expected to attract women from across the town for a relaxed day of bonding, castle tours, team-building activities, and goal-setting sessions for the year ahead. The organisers describe it as a gentle yet meaningful way to welcome in 2026, focusing on connection, reflection, and intentional living.

Although large-scale entertainment remains limited, small, affordable, community-driven events are gradually breathing life back into the city, signalling that activity is expected to steadily increase as residents ease back into their normal routines.

Nakuru clubs will also be open to provide a lively atmosphere for residents who want to dance the evening away.

Wagwan Nakuru! Here is something special for Nakuru babes this weekend

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Purity Kinuthia