Entertainment (Commonwealth Union) _ With a diverse culture that bleeds into the country’s music and cinema, Africa quite fittingly hosts an array of some of the best music festivals in the world. Set in some of the best locations on the continent, here are five festivals in Southern Africa that you could turn into a road trip.
- Vic Falls Carnival (Zimbabwe)
The Vic Falls Carnival, one of the most popular music festivals in Southern Africa, takes place near one of the Seven Wonders of the World. In 2009, Vic Falls hosted its inaugural music festival, known as Falls Fest. The Vic Falls Carnival, as it exists now, was founded in 2012.
Offering an authentic African experience, this festival is a three-day event that includes a vintage steam train that transports guests to a fantastic bash, accompanied by a host of local DJs to set the mood along the way. The second day typically involves an array of parties, followed by New Year’s Eve on the third day. Understandably considered the most exciting night of the three, the event is said to entertain with an impressive lineup and usually lasts well past midnight. Despite the carnival being moved from April to December due to the weather, it’s still going on as strong as ever, with this year’s festivities set to commence on the 28th of April.
- Bazique Festival (Cape Town, South Africa)
A fabulously designed festival flashing a cacophony of colours, the Bazique Festival is a collaboration of party promoters, creatives, musicians, performing artists and installation artists.
Spanning over 3 days, the festival involves an exciting array of activities and amenities that make way for a spectacular experience, including musical stages, international DJs, over a hundred local DJs, workshops and discussions, parties, and impressive art installations. The festival’s location next to a river and golden beaches allows plenty of time for swimming and tanning; amidst the summer styles floaties, you might find fellow festival goers bobbing on them.
A true and authentic representation of South Africa’s culture, electronic music, and art, the Bazique Festival attracts masses of music lovers every year.
- AfrikaBurn (Tankwa Karoo – South Africa)
With a theme that changes every year and a “Leave no trace behind”, this festival is as environmentally friendly as it is a blast. Established in 2007 as a non-profit medium for a South African Burning Man regional event, it is focused on building a temporary creative community and the creation of artwork that is burnt at the end of the event. Located each year in a semi-desert environment, the festival has been garnering more and more attention each year, with the 2025 festival having attracted an estimated 10,500 attendees.
- The Delicious Festival (Johannesburg – South Africa)
One of South Africa’s most beloved festivals, this event creates an intersection of local food and homegrown talent. Throughout the years of this festival, it has hosted several exceptional musicians on its platform, such as Hugh Masekela, the late Nigerian artist Femi Kuti, Erykah Badu, and Black Coffee. Every year, the Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit will host this cultural event in September.
- Rocking the Daisies (Cape Town – South Africa)
Considered one of the leading eco-friendly festivals in Africa, Rocking the Daisies expands its experience every year through the festival’s innovative incorporation of environmentally conscious products. Held every year in a stunning autumnal wine estate, the event delivers an exceptional cultural experience with local and international artists and includes a wide range of entertainment genres such as indie UK grime, Amapiano, R&B, hip-hop, folk and rock.
