Kampala — Thousands of worshippers on Wednesday night thronged the Old Kampala Secondary School grounds as Watoto Church lit what is believed to be Uganda’s tallest Christmas tree, officially ushering in the 2025 Christmas season with an evening of carols, worship, and fireworks.
The 21-metre giant Christmas tree, towering over the Kampala skyline, was illuminated amid cheers, music, and a colourful fireworks display, marking the start of Watoto Church’s annual Christmas celebrations centred on the birth of Jesus Christ.
The Carols Night brought together believers from across the city in a rare show of unity, with participation from several churches, including All Saints Cathedral Nakasero, Deliverance Church Makerere, Community Life Church Busega, Life Church Namasuba, House of Revival Kisaasi, AfriChorus Choir (Kamanya COU Bunamwaya), and Elim Evangelistic Church.
“On Wednesday, Watoto Church lit Uganda’s tallest Christmas tree and fireworks, kicking off Christmas celebrations marking the birth of Jesus,” tweeted Joseph Beyanga Joe Walker, who shared highlights from the event. “The 21-metre giant tree overlooking Kampala City is seated at Old Kampala SSS.”
Videos and photos shared online showed thousands singing Christmas carols, waving lights, and worshipping together in an atmosphere described by many attendees as both festive and reverent.
In a statement after the event, Watoto Church thanked the public for turning up in large numbers. “What a beautiful Carols Night we shared—thank you for coming and celebrating with us!” the church posted on its official X (formerly Twitter) account.
The Carols Night also served as a curtain-raiser for the much-anticipated Christmas Cantata: Son of God, a large-scale musical and drama production that Watoto Church stages annually. The Cantata runs from Friday, December 19 to Monday, December 22, with shows starting at 8:00 pm and gates opening at 2:00 pm to allow guests enjoy the full experience.
“The Cantata is a different experience from Carols Night,” Watoto Church noted. “It features powerful storytelling and music that brings the Christmas story to life. We invite everyone to come again and bring someone new.”
Earlier this week, Watoto Church assured the public that the 2025 Cantata would be safe and family-friendly. “With strong partnerships, thorough planning, and dedicated teams on the ground, Christmas Cantata 2025 will be a safe, memorable, and family-friendly celebration,” the church said.
The Christmas Cantata has become one of Kampala’s most iconic end-of-year events, drawing thousands annually and blending faith, arts, and community celebration. As the illuminated tree continues to shine over Old Kampala, it stands as a visible symbol that the city’s Christmas season has officially begun.
