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Gulu city prepares for 2026 Oktoberfest with over 100,000 revelers expected
6 April 2026, 2:37 pm
By Gift Okello
Preparations for the 2026 Gulu City Oktoberfest are officially in motion, with the Mayor, Alfred Okwanga, confirming that planning meetings are scheduled to commence this April.
While addressing the press at Kaunda Grounds over the weekend, Mayor Okwonga announced that the festival will run from October 3 to 12, 2026, under the theme: “Celebrating Culture, Creativity, and Global Friendship.”
The city has set an ambitious target of over 100,000 attendees, a significant increase from the 65,000 visitors recorded last year. Mobilization efforts and campaigns to attract international and local tourists are set to launch on April 10, 2026.
Mayor Okwonga, who also serves as the chief organizer, noted that several cultural groups from Lango, Teso, Karamoja, Bunyoro, Ankole, and West Nile have already confirmed their participation
Rogo Jane, a Kenyan businesswoman, noted that previous editions significantly boosted her sales in African attire. Similarly, local musician Samuel Olara, known as Mixola, praised the event for spotlighting local talent.
Lira City Mayor, Sam Atul, who attended last year’s celebrations, encouraged other districts to emulate Gulu’s model to promote local tourism and preserve cultural heritage.
