Blue Ribbon Soweto Kota Festival draws 18,000 food and music lovers
The eighth annual Blue Ribbon Soweto Kota Festival lit up Dobsonville with township flavours, live music, and heritage celebrations, attracting thousands of visitors over two jam-packed days.
Thousands of food lovers and culture enthusiasts convened at the Dobsonville rugby fields this past weekend for the highly anticipated annual Blue Ribbon Soweto Kota Festival.
Now in its eighth edition, the festival is a vibrant celebration of township street food, heritage, culture and all things Soweto.
The two-day event, held on Saturday and Sunday, once again showcased the beloved kota, a township staple, alongside a variety of street food delicacies that catered to all tastes.
ALSO READ: Star-studded Soweto Kota Festival to hit Dobsonville
From traditional kotas packed with polony and Russian sausages to gourmet “private school” versions featuring exotic fillings, there was something for everyone.
The festival wasn’t just about food, but it was a feast for the senses. The atmosphere buzzed with energy as some of Mzansi’s hottest artists took to the stage.
Saturday’s lineup featured Zee Nxumalo, Rethabile Khumalo, and MDU aka TRP, who set the stage on fire and got everyone dancing.
On Sunday, the fun continued with Naledi Aphiwe, Mlindo the Vocalist, DJ Young, and other artists and DJs keeping the vibe alive with their performances.
ALSO READ: Soweto Kota Festival apologises for unexpected issues
“The eighth annual Blue Ribbon Soweto Kota Festival was a huge success and big enough to accommodate over 18,000 people across the two days,” said festival founder, Sidwell Ntshingilane.
“We would like to thank all our sponsors, the media, and the public. The feedback has been incredible, people loved that we brought the festival back to Soweto.”
Now recognised as one of Gauteng’s premier Spring and Heritage Month events, the festival continues to grow in popularity.
Not only does it bring joy and entertainment to residents, but it also stimulates the local economy by supporting township vendors and attracting visitors from across the province.
Organisers have already confirmed dates for next year’s edition, set for September 5 and 6, 2026.
