As the Rainbow Nation ushers in spring, South Africa is blossoming with a calendar full of festivals celebrating wild whales to soulful jazz and everything in between. No matter what your spring vibe is, these festivals across the country offer the perfect excuse to explore the country’s diverse landscapes and communities. If your province isn’t on the list, it may be the perfect time to put on your tourist hat and take a trip.
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Here’s your guide to the festivals running with important details to help you plan your travels.
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Western Cape
Hermanus Whale Festival
Location: Hermanus
Dates: 3–5 October 2025
What to Expect: A vibrant mix of eco-education and entertainment. Southern right whales return to Walker Bay yearly and are visible from the shore. On top of the whale marvel, expect street parades, live music, craft stalls, marine talks, kids’ zones and great seafood. There is something for the whole family.
Rocking the Daisies
Location: Cloof Wine Estate, Darling
Dates: 2–5 October 2025
Tickets: R1 449–R1 899 for GA; R599+ for camping.
What to Expect: One of South Africa’s biggest and most-loved music festivals. You’ll find local and international artists, pop-up fashion stalls, a wide variety of food truck and wellness spaces all coexisting into a wine estate. It’s equal parts party and lifestyle showcase.
Noble Vice Wine & Food Festival
Location: Kaapzicht Wine Estate, Stellenbosch
Dates: 11–12 October 2025
Tickets: Pricing TBA
What to Expect: This one is for the foodies and self-proclaimed. Noble Vice invites a select group of winemakers and chefs to present their craft. It’s slow, intimate, and ideal for those who appreciate the art of pairing good wine with beautifully plated food. Expect relaxed vineyard views, a sophisticated crowd, and plenty of flavour.
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Gauteng
Spring Fiesta
Location: Ekurhuleni
Dates: 4 October 2025
Tickets: R250+
What to Expect: A day-to-night celebration of house, amapiano, and soul music featuring South Africa’s biggest DJs and artists. The festival sprawls across multiple stages with light shows, food vendors, and VIP lounges. It’s a full-blown urban party and a highlight of Gauteng’s spring calendar.
Standard Bank Joy of Jazz
Location: Sandton, Johannesburg
Dates: 26–28 September 2025
Tickets: R1 350 (1-day), R2 250 (2-day), R3 250 (weekend pass)
What to Expect: This premier jazz festival blends smooth sounds with big-city sophistication. There will be performances from both South African legends and international stars across multiple indoor and outdoor stages. The crowd is stylish, the atmosphere electric, and the music world-class. A must for jazz fans.
Folklore Festival
Location: Johannesburg
Dates: TBA
Tickets: TBA
What to Expect: The name says it all. This is celebration of African storytelling, music, and crafts. This small festival offers intimate poetry performances, traditional music, and local artisan goods. It’s a refreshing, culturally rich experience with a strong focus on heritage and creativity.
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Eastern Cape
Magoebaskloof Spring Festival
Location: Magoebaskloof
Dates: TBA
What to Expect: Set in the lush mountain landscapes of Limpopo (also often listed under the Eastern Cape), this festival revolves around gardens in bloom, local food, and community culture. Visitors can explore open gardens, hike forest trails, browse handmade goods, and enjoy live music. It’s peaceful, picturesque, and great for the whole family.
Ficksburg Cherry Festival
Location: Ficksburg
Dates: 20–22 November 2025
Tickets: R100 general entry
What to Expect: South Africa’s oldest crop festival celebrates the region’s cherry harvest in a big way. Enjoy cherry picking, pie-baking competitions, parades, concerts, and funfair rides. It’s wholesome, colourful, and full of countryside character.
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Limpopo
Magoebaskloof Spring Festival
Location: Magoebaskloof
Dates: September TBA
Tickets: Free or donation-based
What to Expect: A mix of natural beauty and community warmth. Expect vibrant plant markets, botanical garden tours, live acoustic music, forest walks, and a laid-back atmosphere. With fresh mountain air and colourful scenery, it’s a perfect weekend break for couples, families, and outdoor lovers.
Whether you’re road-tripping to the coast or exploring a new corner of your province, there’s no better way to ring in the spring than these adventures.
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