As summer fades and the crisp air of autumn settles in, Pretoria transforms into a lively hub of music, culture, and food festivals. Whether you’re a lover of live music, gourmet food, handcrafted goods, or fine wine, these festivals offer the perfect way to celebrate the season. Get ready to mark your calendars, because here are Autumn’s most exciting festivals happening in and around Pretoria!
Market@theSheds – The Awakening (April 5, 2025)
This full-day festival is a celebration of music, art, and culture in the heart of Pretoria. Expect a mix of up-and-coming and established artists across multiple stages, with genres ranging from jazz and soul to house and electronic beats. Beyond music, local creators showcase their crafts, and food vendors serve up delicious flavours. The event runs from morning to midnight, ensuring a full day of entertainment and discovery.
📍 Venue: Market@theSheds, 012 Central, Pretoria
🎟 Tickets: Available at Webtickets and Pick n Pay
🚗 Parking: Secure parking at 216 Sisulu Street
Nyoni Lenhle Live – The Radio Experience (Youth Expression Festival)
This unique festival transforms a traditional concert into a storytelling and theatrical experience, set on the fictional Ndiza FM radio station. Nyoni Lenhle, a talented singer-songwriter from Mpumalanga, shares her life’s journey through music, engaging the audience as active participants.
📍 Venue: Malombo at SA State Theatre, Pretoria
🔗 More Info: statetheatre.co.za
Potjie Fest Sundays (April 6, 2025)
For food lovers, Potjie Fest Sundays is the place to be. This lively market features a blend of delicious food, local fashion, live music, and fun activities, creating the perfect setting for a relaxed Sunday with friends and family.
📍 Venue: 15 Bronkhorstspruit Road, Willow Park Manor, Pretoria East
🎟 Entry: Free
Tequila Mexican Food Festival (May 24, 2025)
Prepare for a fiesta like no other at the Tequila Mexican Food Festival! With an array of tacos, burritos, guacamole, and tequila, this event brings the vibrant flavours of Mexico to Pretoria. Expect live music, DJs, beer gardens, and tequila stalls to keep the energy high throughout the day.
📍 Venue: Royal Elephant, Pretoria
🎟 Tickets: Prices range from R150 to R600; no tickets sold at the gate
🚫 Age Restriction: No under 18s allowed
Fijnwyn Bubbles (March 21 & 22, 2025)
Wine lovers can indulge in a two-day wine-tasting event with a bubbly twist. The festival features top wine farms, live music, gourmet food, and a lively atmosphere, making it the perfect weekend getaway for those who enjoy a glass (or bottle) of fine wine.
📍 Venue: Shokran Venue, Pretoria East
⏰ Time: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Autumn in Pretoria is packed with incredible festivals catering to different tastes and interests. Whether you want to dance to live music, enjoy gourmet food, or relax with a glass of wine, there’s something for everyone. Gather your friends, book your tickets, and make the most of this season’s best events!
Pretoria Soul Sunday Picnic (April 13, 2025)
If you love soulful music, relaxing picnic vibes, and an incredible lineup of artists, then the Pretoria Soul Sunday Picnic is an event you can’t afford to miss! Taking place at the National Zoological Gardens, this event is the perfect way to unwind while listening to live performances from top DJs and musicians.
Lineup Highlights:
- DJ Young – Bringing the latest and greatest soulful beats.
- Ismael Abrahams – Setting the mood with smooth R&B.
- Tbose Mokwele – A household name in South Africa’s music scene.
- Paul Mtirara – Known for his deep connection to soulful sounds.
Why You’ll Love It:
- Chill in a stunning outdoor setting while enjoying good food and good vibes.
- Meet fellow soul music lovers and dance under the autumn sky.
- Capture Instagram-worthy moments at one of Pretoria’s most scenic spots.
📍 Venue: National Zoological Gardens, Pretoria
⏰ Time: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Doek Nation Picnic Pretoria (Women-Only Event)
Ladies, this one’s for YOU! The Doek Nation Picnic is more than just a picnic—it’s a celebration of womanhood, empowerment, and unity. Whether you call it Usuku Lwesigameko (Day of the Event) or Umlando (History in the Making), this event is all about women supporting and uplifting one another. Theme: All White with a Touch of Nude
What to Expect:
- A star-studded entertainment lineup featuring top female DJs and artists.
- Inspirational talks and motivational sessions to uplift and empower.
- Exciting giveaways, laughter, and unforgettable memories!
- Early Bird Tickets: R150
- Cooler Box Fee: R150 (Bring your own drinks!)
What to Bring:
- Cooler box (R150 fee applies)
- Folding chairs & picnic baskets
- Your doek (It’s a must!)
- Gazebo or umbrella for shade
Strictly NO MEN ALLOWED – This is a safe space for women to celebrate and uplift one another.
📍 Venue: Pretoria National Botanical Gardens
📲 For inquiries: WhatsApp 064 935 2313
📊 For vendor stalls: Contact Lina at 073 485 3216
Love in Paradise – Pretoria (March 29, 2025)
Because love is for everyone—whether you’re single, taken, or somewhere in between! This magical event at Fountains Valley is all about celebrating love in its many forms—self-love, friendship, romance, and even new connections.
Why You Should Attend:
- Live music and entertainment to set the perfect mood.
- Celebrate with your bestie, partner, sister, or even solo—everyone is welcome!
- A relaxed, romantic, and soulful vibe to remind you why love is worth celebrating.
📍 Venue: Fountains Valley, Pretoria
📅 Date: March 29, 2025
Autumn in Pretoria is brimming with incredible festivals, each offering a unique way to celebrate music, love, culture, and community. Whether you’re in the mood for soulful tunes, an empowering women’s gathering, a Mother’s Day celebration, or a festival dedicated to love, there’s something here for everyone.
FAQs
1. Can I bring my own food and drinks to these festivals?
Most festivals do not allow outside food and drinks, as they have a wide variety of food stalls and bars. However, Doek Nation Picnic allows cooler boxes with a R150 fee.
2. Are these festivals family-friendly?
Yes, most of them are! Pretoria Soul Sunday Picnic and Pretoria's Mother’s Day Celebration are perfect for families. However, Doek Nation Picnic is strictly women-only, and the Tequila Mexican Food Festival is 18+ only.
3. What’s the dress code for these events?
Each festival has its own vibe, but here are some tips:
- Doek Nation Picnic: All White with a Touch of Nude (and don’t forget your doek!)
- Love in Paradise: Dress in romantic, flowy, or floral outfits.
- Other events: Casual, stylish, and comfortable outfits are recommended.
4. Where can I buy tickets for these festivals?
Tickets are available through Webtickets, Computicket, Shoprite, Checkers, and the official event websites. It’s best to buy in advance as many events sell out quickly.
5. Is parking available at these venues?
Yes! Most events have secure parking areas nearby, such as the free parking at Market@theSheds and designated parking spots at Kuhle Lodge, Fountains Valley, and the Botanical Gardens.
6. Can men attend Doek Nation Picnic?
No, Doek Nation Picnic is strictly for women. It’s a safe and empowering space for women to connect, celebrate, and uplift each other.
7. What happens if it rains?
Most festivals are rain or shine events, with some offering tented or covered areas. Keep an eye on each festival’s social media for weather updates.
8. What type of music can I expect at these events?
- Pretoria Soul Sunday Picnic: Soul & R&B
- Market@theSheds: Jazz, Afrobeat, and House
- Love in Paradise: Romantic and soulful live performances
- Doek Nation Picnic: A mix of popular local hits
9. Are there vendor opportunities at these festivals?
Yes! Many events welcome food and craft vendors. For Doek Nation Picnic, vendors can contact Lina at 073 485 3216 for trading opportunities.
10. Can I bring kids to these events?
While some events like Mother’s Day Celebration are family-friendly, others (Tequila Mexican Food Festival and Doek Nation Picnic) have strict age restrictions. Always check event guidelines before attending.