Gulu City gears up for 2026 Oktoberfest, over 100,000 visitors expected

6 April 2026, 2:37 pm

By Gift Okello

Preparations for the 2026 Gulu City Oktoberfest are officially underway, with the Mayor, Alfred Okwanga, confirming that planning meetings are scheduled to begin this April.

Speaking to the press at Kaunda Grounds over the weekend, Mayor Okwanga announced that the festival will take place from 3 to 12 October 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. Mobilisation efforts and campaigns to attract both international and local tourists are set to launch on 10 April 2026.

Mayor Okwonga, who also serves as the chief organiser, 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 had significantly boosted her sales of African attire. Similarly, local musician Samuel Olara, popularly known as Mixola, praised the event for showcasing 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.