As Kenyans approached the festive season of Christmas and New Year in 2025, a stark contrast emerged between the usual celebratory spirit and the harsh economic realities faced by many. While some areas like Mombasa saw shops busy with residents and tourists purchasing new clothes, reflecting a semblance of holiday cheer, this sentiment was largely overshadowed by widespread financial strain.

The prevailing tough economic times, characterized by a high cost of living, significantly dampened the festive mood across the nation. Many Kenyans found their wallets thin, making it difficult to fully embrace the traditional joy and celebration associated with the holidays. This economic hardship was further compounded by fears of a potential increase in school fees come January, adding another layer of anxiety for families.

Travel for the holidays also presented significant challenges. Matatu touts at Kisumu Bus Park were observed cheerfully loading luggage as passengers embarked on their journeys home on December 23, 2025. However, this seemingly cheerful activity belied the burden of hiked travel fares. Many travelers, particularly in Mombasa, had proactively booked their trips upcountry as early as November to secure discounted fares on buses and trains. Despite these efforts, by late December, most bus operators had doubled their fares, making holiday travel an expensive undertaking for many.

The festive season, historically a period of communal joy and family reunions, thus mirrored the difficulties, with many struggling to reconcile the traditional expectations of celebration with their current economic circumstances.