South Africa is a festival-lover’s paradise, offering an exciting mix of music, art, and cultural celebrations throughout the year.
Whether you’re into world-class jazz, electrifying EDM, thought-provoking theatre, or the magic of immersive art experiences, there’s something for everyone.
If you’re looking to add unforgettable events to your 2025 calendar, here are five must-attend events that showcase the country’s vibrant creative spirit.
AfrikaBurn
Dates: 28 April – 4 May
Location: Tankwa Karoo, Western Cape
AfrikaBurn is a regional event inspired by Nevada’s Burning Man, emphasising community, self-expression, and art.
Participants gather in the remote Tankwa Karoo desert to create a temporary city filled with large-scale art installations, performances, and themed camps.
The event culminates in the burning of these artworks, symbolizing the transient nature of the experience.
Splashy Fen Music Festival
Dates: 17–21 April
Location: Underberg, KwaZulu-Natal
As South Africa’s longest-running music festival, Splashy Fen offers a blend of music, arts, and outdoor activities set against the picturesque Drakensberg mountains. Music lovers can enjoy performances from a diverse lineup of artists while camping in a scenic riverside setting.
Check out this year’s lineup HERE.
Ultra South Africa
Dates: 9 May (Cape Town) and 10 May (Johannesburg)
Locations: The Ostrich in Cape Town and Expo Centre Nasrec in Johannesburg
Ultra South Africa is the premier electronic dance music (EDM) festival in the country, featuring international and local DJs.
Known for its high-energy performances and state-of-the-art production, the festival attracts EDM enthusiasts from around the globe.
Cape Town International Jazz Festival
Dates: 25 – 26 April
Location: Cape Town International Convention Centre
Dubbed “Africa’s Grandest Gathering,” this festival showcases a mix of international and African jazz artists.
It’s a must-attend event for jazz aficionados, offering performances across multiple stages and attracting a diverse audience.
National Arts Festival
Dates: 26 June to 6 July
Location: Makhanda (formerly Grahamstown), Eastern Cape
The National Arts Festival hosts a diverse range of performances including theatre, dance, music, and visual arts.
Over 11 days, the festival transforms Makhanda into a cultural hub, attracting artists and audiences from across the country. Attendees can immerse themselves in both the Main programme and the Fringe festival, offering a platform for both established and emerging artists.
The festival also features workshops, exhibitions, and a vibrant craft fair, making it a comprehensive cultural experience.
WHICH FESTIVAL WILL YOU BE ATTENDING?
From the electrifying beats of Ultra South Africa to the soul-stirring performances at the Cape Town International Jazz Festival, each of these events offers a unique experience.
Have you attended any of these festivals before? Tell us in the comments
Let us know by leaving a comment below or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1.
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