As the leaves turn golden and the weather cools, Pretoria comes alive with an array of festivals that capture the city’s vibrant culture and community spirit. From culinary delights to musical treats, each festival offers a unique glimpse into the heart of this lively city. Join us as we explore the upcoming festivals in Pretoria, promising unforgettable experiences for everyone involved.
Mini Show Festival 2024: A Theatrical Delight
Date: Saturday, 18 May Venue: UNISA Little Theatre
Prepare to be captivated by the Mini Show Festival 2024, a theatrical extravaganza at the UNISA Little Theatre. This event showcases rising talents in a cosy, intimate setting. Most importantly, attendees can expect a series of engaging performances spanning various genres. Besides that, refreshments and light bites are available to enhance your viewing experience. The atmosphere is electric, buzzing with the energy of performers and theatre enthusiasts alike.
Mother’s Day Picnic Celebration: Family Fun in the Sun
Date: Sunday, 12 May Venue: Ditsong Pioneer Museum
Celebrate Mother’s Day with a delightful picnic at the Ditsong Pioneer Museum. This event offers a relaxing day out in the sun with family-friendly entertainment and a variety of food stalls offering everything from homemade treats to gourmet snacks. Therefore, it’s the perfect setting to show appreciation for the special women in our lives while enjoying the tranquil outdoor ambience of one of Pretoria’s most scenic locations.
Sphatlho Festival: A Culinary Journey
Date: Saturday, 1 June Venue: Lucas Moripe Stadium, Attridgeville
The Sphatlho Festival is a culinary event that celebrates local flavours and dishes, especially the popular South African street food, Sphatlho. Moreover, the festival includes live cooking demonstrations, food vendors, and a vibrant market atmosphere. Entertainment includes local bands and DJs, making it a festive day out for foodies and music lovers alike.
The Scullery Quintet – Padkos & Polyphony: A Musical Feast
Date: Saturday, 1 June Venue: Cnr of Lynnwood Rd and Daventry St, Lynnwood
Experience a unique blend of music and gastronomy at The Scullery Quintet – Padkos & Polyphony. This event features performances by a renowned quintet known for its eclectic mix of sounds, paired with a selection of local and artisanal foods. Hence, it’s an ideal festival for those looking to indulge their senses in a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere.
Mother’s Day Gin Festival: Cheers to the Ladies
Date: Saturday, 11 May Venue: Pretoria National Botanical Garden
The Mother’s Day Gin Festival is a tribute to all things gin, set in the beautiful Pretoria National Botanical Garden. This festival features a wide range of local and international gins, complemented by gourmet food pairings. Well, live music and a series of gin-tasting workshops make this a must-attend for gin enthusiasts and those looking to celebrate Mother’s Day in style.
Jakaranda Bloeisel Sowaar: A Night Under the Stars
Date: Friday, 10 May Venue: Bar
Jakaranda Bloeisel Sowaar is an evening festival that celebrates the iconic Jacaranda trees of Pretoria. As the city turns purple with blooming Jacarandas, this festival offers live music, craft beer, and local cuisine under the stars. Additionally, the casual and festive atmosphere makes it a perfect event for relaxing with friends and family.
Capital Craft Beer Festival 2024: Brews and Views
Date: Saturday, 15 June Venue: Pretoria National Botanical Garden
The Capital Craft Beer Festival is an annual celebration of craft beer, with breweries from all over the country showcasing their best brews. Besides that, the festival also features live music, craft food stalls, and interactive beer-making workshops. Set in the picturesque Botanical Garden, it’s a day of fun, froth, and festivity.
Keanan Eksteen at Park Acoustics: A Musical Escape
Date: Saturday, 11 May 2024 Venue: Park Acoustics
This much-anticipated event promises to blend natural beauty with rhythmic beats, creating a perfect Saturday outing. Besides that, the festival will start in the cool mid-morning and stretch into the golden hours of the afternoon, offering not only great music but also a range of local cuisines and craft beers to enjoy as you sway to the tunes.
Tasché at The Monument: Iconic Sounds in an Iconic Space
Date: Saturday, 01 June 2024 Venue: Monument in Pretoria
The soulful Tasché is known for her captivating voice and stirring performances. This setting, rich in history, adds a layer of depth to the musical experience. Therefore, attendees can expect a mesmerising evening filled with spellbinding melodies. Food stalls and beverage counters will be plentiful, ensuring your taste buds are as thrilled as your ears.
John Rock Prophet in Centurion: A Midweek Marvel
Date: Wednesday, 12 June 2024 Venue: Centurion
Midweek magic happens as John Rock Prophet takes the stage. This unique Wednesday festival breaks the routine and gives you a reason to celebrate midweek blues away. The festival will feature an array of food trucks offering everything from gourmet snacks to hearty meals, making it a perfect escape for both families and groups of friends.
James Blunt at Sun Bet Arena: A Starlit Spectacle
Date: Saturday, 14 September 2024 Venue: Sun Bet Arena at Time Square Casino
As the year progresses, a highlight is undoubtedly when James Blunt performs at the Sun Bet Arena at Time Square Casino. This evening promises a blend of nostalgic hits and new favourites under the starry Pretoria sky. The venue will offer a selection of fine dining and casual eating options, ensuring that your experience is deliciously unforgettable.
Take That at Sun Bet Arena: Relive the Magic
Date: Sunday, 20 October 2024 Venue: Sun Bet Arena
The excitement continues with the legendary Take That gracing the stage. Fans can look forward to a night of iconic songs and spectacular performances. Moreover, the festival atmosphere will be enhanced with a variety of drink options, from craft beers to elegant cocktails, ensuring the spirit of the night is kept high.
Kool & The Gang and Al Mckay’s Earth at Sun Bet Arena: A Funky Fusion
Date: Saturday, 30 November 2024 Venue: Sun Bet Arena
As we near the year’s end Kool & The Gang and Al McKay’s Earth bring their funky and soulful sounds to Pretoria. This festival will be a celebration of classic tunes and smooth grooves. Additionally, the Sun Bet Arena will feature interactive entertainment zones and a selection of multicultural food offerings.
Cigarettes After Sex at SunBet Arena: An Intimate Experience
Date: Friday, 07 March 2025 Venue: Sun Bet Arena
Looking ahead to the next year the ethereal sounds of Cigarettes After Sex will envelop the SunBet Arena. This concert is perfect for those who enjoy intimate, ambient music settings. The venue will ensure a personal experience with themed bars and artisan food stalls tailored to enhance the moody and evocative atmosphere of the night.
Pretoria’s festival scene is as diverse as it is vibrant, offering something for everyone. Whether you’re into food, music, or theatre, these upcoming festivals provide the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture. Therefore, grab your calendar and start planning; great experiences await at every turn!
