The Kota Festival is back, and this year it is bigger, bolder, and better. On Saturday, 4 October 2025, FNB Stadium will host thousands of food lovers for a full-day celebration of township flavours and culture. The event runs from 10:00 in the morning until midnight, offering more than food; it’s an experience that blends music, entertainment, and community pride.
Organisers expect over 15,000 attendees, making it one of Johannesburg’s largest cultural food festivals this year.
Festival manager Buyisile Nkosi highlights the vision:
“The growth of the Jozi Kota Festival is a testament to the cultural and economic values of township food traditions. Our biggest vision is to tell our kasi food stories and take kota to the world.”
Why the Kota Festival matters
The kota is more than a street food favourite. It reflects township creativity, affordability, and cultural identity. By dedicating a large-scale festival to this iconic meal, organisers are creating a platform that blends heritage, entrepreneurship, and innovation.
- Over 50 vendors will trade at the event, selling everything from traditional kotas to gourmet twists, along with desserts, drinks, and lifestyle merchandise.
- Major sponsors include Albany (title sponsor), with support from Clover, Thompson Meats, and Sunfoil, ensuring quality and brand-backed experiences.
- The event doubles as an SMME empowerment platform, giving township food businesses access to thousands of potential customers.
Tickets and entry
Tickets are available via the Kota Festival website and official outlets. Prices start from around R50–R150 for general access, with VIP options ranging up to R800. Children under 2 years old enter free (Webtickets).
Ticket categories:
- General Access: Entry to the festival and food vendor areas.
- Family Packages: Discounted bundles for groups, including access to kids’ zones.
- VIP Tickets: Priority access, shaded lounges, and premium seating for performances.
Transport and access
Public transport
FNB Stadium is well connected, and Rea Vaya buses, trains, and minibus taxis will be available on event day. The Soccer City and Nasrec stations provide easy access, while e-hailing services like Uber and Bolt are also popular options.
Driving and parking
With a capacity near 95,000 people, parking at the stadium fills up quickly. To avoid congestion, public transport is the smarter choice. If you do drive, plan to arrive early and expect delays when leaving.
Food and vendor experience
Food sits at the heart of the Kota Festival. With dozens of stalls to choose from, festival-goers can expect:
- Classic kotas with chips, polony, and cheese.
- Modern takes with chicken, beef, and vegetarian fillings.
- Dessert and cold drink stalls to complement the meals.
- Lifestyle merchandise celebrating township culture.
The mix of traditional and experimental flavours ensures something for everyone. Visitors are encouraged to sample widely and support the township entrepreneurs showcasing their skills.
Entertainment and headline lineup
The Kota Festival isn’t only about food. This year’s stage will feature some of South Africa’s biggest artists, including:
- DJ Maphorisa
- Kabza De Small
- Sjava
- Zed Nxumalo
- Big Zulu
- DJ Tira
- Mlindo The Vocalist
The event will be hosted by none other than Somizi Mhlongo, adding flair and energy to the celebration.
Families can also enjoy:
- A kids’ play zone with safe activities.
- A Halloween-inspired theme, encouraging creative dress-up.
- Interactive brand activations that combine food and lifestyle experiences.
Safety and operations
Events at FNB Stadium are regulated by City of Johannesburg event guidelines, which ensure proper safety standards. These include:
- Bag checks at entrances.
- On-site medical services.
- Marshals directing crowds.
- Clearly marked emergency exits.
This guarantees a secure and family-friendly environment for all attendees.
Why you should attend Kota Festival 2025
The Kota Festival 2025 is more than a food event. It’s a showcase of South Africa’s township creativity, an economic platform for local businesses, and a must-attend day of food, music, and cultural pride.
With more than 50 vendors, big-name sponsors, a headline artist lineup, and a strong focus on community, it’s set to be one of Johannesburg’s cultural highlights of the year.
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