The Love You Give
Muhammed Kaltuk (Switzerland) · 2023
Since 2013 · Butaleja, Uganda
Batalo Dance Festival
Uganda’s yearly celebration of traditional and urban dance — free for everyone.
The festival
An annual celebration of cultural unity that has brought together more than 1,000 young performers from Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi and the DR Congo — blending African culture with urban expression.
What happens
One stage, three ways in
Performances
Traditional troupes, urban crews and new contemporary works on one stage.
Workshops
Classes in traditional East African dance and urban styles with local and international artists.
Conversations
Talks, feedback sessions and showcases that give emerging dancers a platform.
Featured works
On our stage
Troupes, crews and choreographers from Uganda and beyond who have performed at the festival.
Ditoro
Thamsanga Majala (South Africa) · 2023
BoNdedge
Nabaggala Lilian Maximilian · 2023
Sememen
Destino Company (Ethiopia) · 2019
Sukaali
Street Dance Force Uganda · 2019
Mbigija
Nabaggala Lilian M & Faraja Batumike (Congo) · 2019
In numbers
A festival that keeps growing
2013
First edition
11
Editions so far
1,000+
Young performers
3,500
Audience in 2023
Plan your visit
Getting there
Since 2023 the festival takes place at the Batalo East Creative Center in Kachonga, Butaleja District, in Eastern Uganda.
- Getting there
Buses and taxis run from Kampala to Mbale and Tororo; from there local taxis and boda bodas go to Kachonga, Butaleja.
- Entry
Free for everyone, all ages. Come early for a good spot.
- Bring
Water, a hat and comfortable shoes — the festival runs from the afternoon into the night.
- Need help?
Ask us about travel, access or group visits before you come.
Support Batalo East
The festival is free so that everyone can come. Your gift pays for performers, travel for rural troupes and the stage itself.