GLM TEAM 
12 – 14 December 2025 | Soweto, Johannesburg
The Makhelwane Festival returns from 12 to 14 December 2025 to Soweto, Johannesburg and it is bigger, bolder, and more deeply rooted in community than ever before. Now in its eleventh year, the beloved Soweto lifestyle and community showcase once again invites locals and travellers to experience the very best of township living through food, fashion, art, music, tourism, and entrepreneurship.
This year’s theme, “Welcome Home,” captures the heart of what Makhelwane stands for: togetherness, creativity, and connection. As South Africans continue to navigate global challenges, the festival encourages domestic travel and invites people from every province to rediscover the beauty of home. It’s a call to explore Soweto and support the small businesses and young innovators that fuel the township economy.
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Derived from the Zulu term for “neighbour,” Makhelwane represents far more than proximity. It speaks to belonging, shared identity, and a collective spirit. The festival continues to embody this ethos through an immersive three-day experience that champions township tourism, celebrates creative entrepreneurship, and offers sustainable opportunities for local businesses across Gauteng.
FESTIVAL EXPERIENCE & HIGHLIGHTS
Opening Night: 12 December 2025 (Thesis Concept Store)
The weekend opens with The Art of Starting: Retla Bona Ko Pele, a networking and creative industry session spotlighting entrepreneurship, resilience, and community growth. Guests will hear from thought leaders including Therisho Sebesho, Siba Ncube, and Lebo, offering inspiration for emerging entrepreneurs ready to take the leap.
The evening includes live music and DJ sets to welcome guests into a weekend of culture and celebration.
Festival Days: 13 & 14 December 2025 (Poka Street, Orlando West)
Live Music & DJ Performances
Over two vibrant festival days, Soweto comes alive with a powerful music line-up, featuring: Sjava, Monique Bingham, Njelic, Russell Zuma, WAV Gardn, Thandonje, Saul Madiope, and more.
DJ sets include Musical Maestro, Nicky B, Ke Dineo, Kitchen Mess, Buhle Mbongwa, DJ Jawz, Billion, Tee Illa, and Lochive, with additional acts to be announced.
Street Art Exhibition
Curated with The Arts Company Soweto (TACS), the exhibition spotlights emerging township artists and connects them with new audiences and collectors.
The Makers Market
A celebration of local artisans, SMMEs, hand-made goods, and design.
Supported by the Gauteng Department of Sport, Arts, Culture & Recreation, Gauteng Tourism Authority, and Joburg Tourism, this market offers free showcasing opportunities to participating businesses.
The Lemonade Stand (Kiddies Market)
A dedicated space for entrepreneurs-in-the-making (15 years and under). Children run their own stalls, participate in games and creative workshops, and enjoy storytelling sessions designed to nurture imagination and early business skills.
Food, Drinks & Lifestyle
Expect gourmet street dining, local flavours, art exhibitions, bike and tuk-tuk tours, fashion pop-ups, neighbourhood storytelling, and a family-friendly atmosphere woven into the heart of Soweto.
TICKETS
Tickets are available via FIXR or at the gate:
- General Admission: R150
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Group (10+): R120
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At the Gate: R250
Festival Hours:
Saturday & Sunday — 12:00 PM to 12:00 AM
Ticket Link: https://bit.ly/3K3iqjt
ABOUT MAKHELWANE FESTIVAL
Built on the foundation of neighbourliness and shared community, the Makhelwane Festival blends fashion, music, tourism, business, and creativity into one dynamic celebration of township excellence.
A collaborative initiative supported by Gauteng Tourism Authority and the Joburg Tourism Company, the festival is committed to growing township tourism, empowering young entrepreneurs, and promoting local travel and discovery across Gauteng and beyond.
“This year, we’re welcoming people back to the community. The spirit of Makhelwane is about more than being neighbours. It’s about belonging, sharing, and growing together. The festival gives people a real sense of home,” says Sifiso Dlangamandla, Festival Founder and Director.
Makhelwane Festival 2025: Welcome Home is a reminder that through culture, creativity, and community, we remain connected.
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