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 all provinces to rediscover the beauty of home.
It’s a call to explore Soweto and support the small businesses that fuel the township economy.
THE EXPERIENCE
Opening Night — 12 December 2025 -Thesis Concept Store – 173 Machaba Drive, Mofolo, Soweto.
The weekend begins with AboMazenzela: The Art of Starting, a networking and creative
industry session spotlighting entrepreneurship and resilience.
The evening will feature live music and DJ sets to welcome guests to a weekend of culture and celebration.
Festival Days — 13 & 14 December 2025 (Poka Street, Orlando West)
Over the two main festival days, attendees can look forward to live performances and DJ’s work: featuring Monique Bingham, Njelic, Sjava, Russell Zuma, Jah Seed & Admiral, Fiji Mageba, WAV Gardn, Thandonje, Saul Madiope, and more.
DJ sets from Musical Maestro, Nicky B, Ke Dineo, Kitchen Mess, Linda Moeketsi, Katz, Mister Majesty, Skywalker, Buhle Mbongwa, DJ Jawz, Billion, Tee Illa, Castro, Magneto and Lochive.
Derived from the Zulu term for “neighbour,” Makhelwane speaks to more than proximity; it represents belonging, shared identity, and community.
Now in its eleventh year, the Makhelwane Festival continues to embody this spirit through an immersive three-day experience that showcases Soweto through the lens of its people.
The festival champions township tourism, celebrates creative entrepreneurship, and provides a sustainable platform for young innovators, artists, and local businesses across Gauteng.
The Lemonade Stand (Kiddies Market)
A dedicated space for entrepreneurs-in-the-making (ages 15 and under) with food stalls, games, creative workshops, and storytelling sessions.
A celebration of local artisans and SMMEs, supported by the Gauteng Department of Sport, Arts, Culture & Recreation, Gauteng Tourism Authority and Joburg Tourism, offering free showcasing opportunities to participating businesses.
Curated with The Arts Company Soweto (TACS), this exhibition spotlights emerging township artists and connects them with new audiences and collectors.
Expect gourmet street dining, art exhibitions, tuk-tuk tours, and a lively, family-friendly atmosphere woven into the streets of Soweto.
Makhelwane Festival 2025: Welcome Home is a reminder that through culture, creativity, and community, we remain connected. It is where fashion, music, food, tourism, and business intersect to create an ecosystem of township excellence.
“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.
Music line-up:
Saturdays At Home
Njelic
Monique Bingham
Nicky B
Russell Zuma
Lochive
Musical Maestro
Linda Moeketsi
Skywalker
Dj Jawz
Jahseed & Admiral
Katz
MÖRDA
Sundays At Home
Sjava
Fiji Mageba
Wav Gardn
Buhle Mbongwa
Thandonje
Billion
Ndumiso Beloved
Saul Madiope
Tee Illa
Castro
Magneto
Tickets are available via FIXR or at the gate:
- General Admission: R150
- Group (10+): R120
- At the Gate: R250
Festival Hours:
Saturday & Sunday — 12:00 PM to 12:00am
