After what appears to have been forever, the National Elections are finally here. And luckily for us, the government has declared the 9th of August a public holiday. Other than exercising our civic duty, this holiday will offer the perfect opportunity to catch up with family and friends. So, I have created a “Top 10 Things to do During The Election Holiday” list to help you make the most of this holiday.
1. Go out and vote
Voting is the most important activity of the day, and I encourage you to exercise your civic duty. It is best to wake up and vote early in the morning so that you have the rest of the day free. However, the lines are usually longer in the morning due to the most enthusiastic citizens camping at the polling stations overnight. Polling stations will be opening at 6 am so set your alarms.
2. Have breakfast at a local restaurant
After voting, I recommend that you reward yourself with a heavy breakfast. You will need to build up your energy stores for the upcoming activities. Artcaffe and Cj’s are my favourite breakfast spots due to their menus and incredible service.
3. Go for a bike ride in Karura Forest
Karura forest is one of the most beautiful and peaceful places in Nairobi. The beautiful scenery and fresh air provide the perfect environment for workouts. For a measly fee of KSh 100, you’ll get to enjoy all the facilities within Karura. The beautiful bike trails winding through the forest go past rivers, caves and lakes. A bike ride or jogging through this forest is a wonderful way to relax and calm your mind before a busy day.
4. A day with the family at Maji Magic Aqua Park
Maji Magic Aqua Park is located at the Water Front Mall in Karen. If you have kids who love water sports they are guaranteed to have a good time here. The lake has water slides, rafts and a floating obstacle course that is fun for both kids and adults. This is why it makes it to my “Top 10 Things to do During The Election Holiday” list.
5. Go Karting at GP Karting
If you have competitive family members then you need to try out go-karting. This is the perfect sport for adrenaline junkies who love racing. GP-Karting located along Langata Road is my favourite race track. However, the price is quite expensive at KSh 1300 for a 10-minute session.
6. Watch a Movie at IMAX
IMAX is the best movie theatre in Nairobi and luckily on Tuesday they’ll be open and showing all the latest blockbusters. This Tuesday’s screenings will include Thor Love and Thunder, Top Gun, Minions and Bullet Train. I hope to see you guys there.]
7. Visit The Nairobi Safari Walk
If you love animals and wildlife then a visit to the Nairobi Safari Walk should be on your Tuesday itinerary. Nairobi Safari Walk is an elevated wooden boardwalk that winds around a park showcasing different fauna and flora. It is a unique way of exploring wildlife and visitors to Nairobi Safari Walk always leave satisfied and impressed. The animals present are the endangered black and white rhinos, leopards, lions, crocodiles, and an albino zebra. It’s a long boardwalk, around 2.5km long, and your kids will enjoy every minute of it.
8. Ice Skating at Panari Sky Centre
Panari Sky Centre has the only Ice Rink in East and Central Africa, and the closest thing you’ll get to sub-zero temperatures in the Nairobi savanna. Ice skating is a really fun sport for both kids and adults alike, and you and your kids will enjoy dancing and sliding on the ice. If you don’t know how to skate, don’t worry, there are instructors on-site to help you learn the basics.
Advanced ice skating and ice hockey lessons are also offered here. So, if you and your kids want to improve your skills on the ice, Panari Sky Centre is the only place in East Africa you can get the lessons.
9. Visit Funscapes with your family
Funscapes is an indoor amusement park located in The Hub – Karen. They have miniature golf, a jungle gym, arcade games, and bumper cars, so it’s a really exciting place for families. The only inconvenience is you need to buy a smart card to use the rides.
10. Sit with the family and watch the election results
After a day of fun-filled activities, nothing is better than a relaxing evening with your family as you reminisce about the day and watch the election results come in. Election nights are best spent at home since it tends to be unsafe outside due to the heightened tension.
This closes out my “Top 10 Things to do During The Election Holiday” list. I wish you and your family safety and blessings during this period.
I’m a 25-year-old adrenaline junkie from Nairobi. I love travelling, attending music festivals and hiking. You can always find me at K1 Klub House playing pool and enjoying a drink with my friends.
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