Thousands of worshippers and families gathered at Old Kampala Senior Secondary School on 17th December 2025 for the Citys Carols Night and the lighting of Uganda’s tallest Christmas tree.
The event marked the official start of Watoto Church’s Christmas Cantata celebrations in Kampala.
The colourful night was filled with music, praise and festive joy. More than 12,000 people attended the first night, enjoying beautiful carols from a combined citywide choir comprising singers from numerouschurches across Kampala.
One of the main highlights was the lighting of a 20-metre Christmas tree, the tallest in the country. The tree stood as a sign of hope, peace and God’s love during the Christmas season. Churches that took part in the celebration included Watoto Church, All Saints Cathedral Kampala, Deliverance Church Makerere, Community Life Church Busega, Life Church Namasuba, House of Revival Kisaasi, AfriChorus Choir and Elim Evangelistic Church.
Speaking as the Chief Guest, Ms. Allen Kagina said Christmas reminds Christians that God chose to come into the world in a humble way, through Jesus who was born in a manger and raised among ordinary people. She said this shows that God is present in every situation and faithful in every season of life.
She added that events like the City’s Carols Night help strengthen society by bringing churches and communities together as one people before God. She challenged parents and leaders to raise a generation that is God-fearing, respectful, and upright, and encouraged young people searching for purpose in life.
Pastor Julius Rwotlonyo, Team Leader at Watoto Church, reminded the audience that the Christmas season is not only about entertainment, but also about understanding the true message of Christmas.
“Christmas is a time when faith and celebration come together. We are opening our hearts and our city so that everyone can hear and experience the story of Jesus Christ,” Pastor Rwotlonyo said.
The event was designed to be family-friendly and open to everyone, regardless of age or background. Looking ahead, Pastor Brian Abaho explained that the upcoming Christmas Cantata, ‘Son of God,’ will use music and drama to tell the story of Jesus creatively and joyfully.
“The Cantata helps people connect with the message of Christ simply and enjoyably,” Pastor Abaho said.
The ‘Son of God’ Christmas Cantata will take place from 19th to 22nd December 2025, starting at 8:00 pm each night, and entry is free.
With many people expected to attend, security has been carefully planned. ASP Luke Owoyesigyire, Deputy Police Spokesperson for Kampala Metropolitan, assured the public that the police are working closely with the organisers to manage crowds and traffic.
“We have enough security officers in place to ensure everyone’s safety and smooth movement,” ASP Owoyesigyire said, asking the public to cooperate with security teams.
As Kampala lights up for Christmas, Watoto Church’s celebrations continue to bring people together in a spirit of hope, love, peace and unity.
