Just days before the country celebrates one of its biggest milestones as a nation, 30 years of freedom, Grammy-award-winning, platinum-selling, singer, songwriter, and producer, Zakes Bantwini, implores the country to not let this milestone pass by without celebrating it.
“Our freedom came with a lot of tears, blood and sacrifices. So many people died for this freedom that we are enjoying today. I think a lot of people don’t understand what Freedom Day really is and why it needs to be celebrated,” shares Zakes Bantwini
Proudly presenting the inaugural Sikelela Festival which aims to celebrate South Africa’s rich heritage through dance and music, Zakes Bantwini adds: “That’s why I’m doing this festival. To hone in on what Freedom Day really is. We were divided as a nation (Black men this side, white men this side) but through festivals like this, we have the opportunity to unite through song and dance. We need to celebrate the bravery of those that came before us and not forget.”
Music has played a pivotal role in unifying South Africans from all walks of life from the likes of Johnny Clegg, Yvonne Chaka Chaka, PJ Powers, Brenda Fassie and TKZee, to a newer generation taking on the stage at Sikelela Festival; 30 years of democracy continues the legacy of using music as a unifier and Sikelela Festival is a must attend to mark this momentous occasion. The specially curated event is set to take place this Saturday, 27 April 2024 (Freedom Day) at one of Johannesburg’s iconic and historical landmarks, Constitution Hill.
Limited tickets are still available for purchase. Make sure to buy your tickets now to avoid disappointment: https://www.howler.co.za/events/zakes-bantwini-presents-sikelela-9445/tickets
Here’s your guide to getting the most out of the biggest celebration of 30 years of Freedom at SA’s most exciting new festival!
What to bring
A friend or two or five! Bring sunscreen and a hat. Small hand-held umbrellas are permitted. And, of course, wear comfortable shoes because you’re going to be partying like a pro all day long!
What to leave at home
Please don’t bring your own cooler boxes, picnic baskets, food or beverages. Also note that no beach or golf umbrellas or pillows will be permitted in the grounds and the drinking of alcohol in the parking areas is strictly forbidden. There is also a no pass-out policy in place.
Money
The festival is a cashless zone, vendors will accept all major bank cards. No cash permitted.
How to get there
Parking is free, however, we recommend using the Gautrain and/or a ride-hailing service such as Uber or Bolt to get to the event. There will be a dedicated ride-hailing drop-off and pick-up zone for festival-goers, to avoid traffic congestion.
Parking
Parking at the festival is free. Parking marshals will be visible around Constitutional Hill directing vehicles to the basement parking.
Gate times
Gates open at 11:00 and the show ends at 23:00. Please note the no pass-out policy. If you leave the venue, you won’t be allowed back in.
Performance Times
With an undeniably impressive and versatile line-up of South African talent, festival goers will see live performances by the likes of Scorpion Kings, MiCasa, Kelvin Momo, Young Stunna, Karyendasoul, Sizwe Alkaline, Supta, and the man of the moment, Zakes Bantwini.
- Fif Laa: 11h00 – 12h00
- Drega: 12h00 – 14h00
- Kelvin Momo: 14h00 – 15h00
- Sizwe Alakine: 15h00 – 15h30
- Karyendasoul: 15h30 – 16h30
- MiCasa: 16h45 – 17h30
- Sun-EL Musician: 17h45 – 18h45
- Young Stunna: 18h45 – 19h15
- Zakes Bantwini: 19h15 – 20h45
- Scorpion Kings: 20h45 – 21h45
- DJ Supta: 21h45 – 22h45
Food stalls and trucks galore
Sumting Fresh
– Fried Chicken Strips with Parmesan Fries
– Bao Buns with Fried Chicken and sriracha sause
The Fat Gatsby
– Loaded Buns served with Slaw and Fries
Eastern Delights
– Burgers, Boerewors Rolls, Samoosas, Spring Rolls, Stir-fry Noodles with Veg / Chicken / Beef
La Mamas
– Panini Rolls served with Rocket / Tomato Salsa / Pork Belly or Rump Steak
Mocharitos
– Tacos, Fajitas, Buritos, Nachos
Wing Republic
– Wings and Fries
Devoted Caterers
– Boerewors Rolls, Prego Rolls