Top 10 festivals in South Africa

South Africa has so much to offer that narrowing down on what you would like to experience and what you can miss out on can be challenging. There’s a lot for you to do and if you’re interested in enjoying a well-blended pot of cultures, then a trip to witness these festivals is just what you need.


1. KAAPSE KLOPSE
South African slaves enjoyed a day off only on January 2nd and therefore, this day has become a day of celebration and joy. On the streets of Cape Town, you can watch a grand affair with musicians and costume dancers showcasing the country’s culture and heritage.

2. CAPE ARGUS CYCLE TOUR

Organized in Cape Town, this annual cycle tour spans 109 km long. The route has stunning scenes and is one of the largest timed cycle races of the world. As a cyclist or a spectator, this event is a must experience.

3. MERCEDES-BENZ FASHION WEEK
Hosted for three full days, this festival leaves the locals brimming in style. It is one of South Africa’s leading fashion exhibitions and highlights the greatest local and continental designers.

4. TWO OCEANS MARATHON
This is undoubtedly the world’s most beautiful marathon to run. There are tens of thousands of participants and the route is breath-taking. It is 56 km long across the Cape Peninsula.

5. CAPE TOWN INTERNATIONAL JAZZ FESTIVAL
If you are a jazz music lover, this one is just for you. It is the largest music festival in Sub-Saharan Africa. You can witness a star-studded line up with local and international jazz artists performing on 5 stages with over 40 other artists.

6. NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL
The perfect festival to celebrate art, the National Arts Festival is situated in Grahamstown. Irrespective of your race, sex, creed, color, you can attend this festival.

7. JIVE CAPE TOWN FUNNY FESTIVAL
One of the biggest comedy events of the world, the Jive Cape Town Funny Festival brings together comedians and artists from various parts of the globe. If you are attending this festival, you sure will have loads of laughter and entertainment to tickle your funny bone.

8. OBZ FESTIVAL
Recognized as the largest street festival of its kind in South Africa, this festival boasts of exemplary art and film installations, nightlife, craft market, music, beer, and a ‘Lazy Sunday’ jazz concert.

9. UMHLANGA SUMMER CARNIVAL
Spanning over 14 days, this carnival has fun-filled beach events allowing both the young and old to bask in outdoor activities.

10. ROCKING THE DAISIES MUSIC AND LIFESTYLE FESTIVAL
Organized in the first week of October for 4 days, this is a famous festival for outdoor gatherings. Kicking off the summer season, the festival has local and international acts across art, comedy, films, and music.

The country of South Africa is rich with a diverse range of cultures. In fact, getting to the true essence in one-holiday trip can be hard if you do not plan it well. Make sure you make the right choices for the various modes of transport including trains, local metro, shuttles, on-demand coach services, and self-drive so that you do not waste time organizing your city travel.