October 2024 Gig Guide: Unmissable Events Across South Africa

October 2024 is packed with exciting gigs, festivals, and performances across South Africa, offering something for everyone. Here’s your October 2024 Gig Guide.

Must-Attend Events in October 2024:

1. Bay Harbour Market, Hout Bay

Date: Every Friday to Sunday
Venue: Bay Harbour Market, Hout Bay, Cape Town
This vibrant market offers live music, art displays, and local crafts. It’s a hub for good food and eclectic performances from local artists. Don’t miss the October lineup of live acts(Bay Harbour).

2. Rocking the Daisies 2024

Date: October 4–6, 2024
Venue: Cloof Wine Estate, Darling
One of South Africa’s premier music festivals, featuring international headliners and local talent. Expect indie, pop, electronic, and rock genres to dominate the stage(Bay Harbour) .

3. Stellenbosch Wine Festival

Date: October 19, 2024
Venue: Stellenbosch, Western Cape
Enjoy the best of South African wine with live entertainment, making it a great mix of food, drink, and music.

4. Mzansi Fela Festival

Date: October 29–November 2, 2024
Venue: South African State Theatre, Pretoria
This festival celebrates African heritage through music, dance, and theatre. It’s the perfect way to engage with African culture and creativity(SA Music Zone).

5. AFROPUNK Joburg Battle of the Bands

Date: October 27, 2024
Venue: Newtown Music Factory, Johannesburg
A prelude to the famous AFROPUNK Joburg festival, this event features up-and-coming bands vying for a spot on the main stage(Bay Harbour).

6. Africa Oil Week (7–11 October)

Location: Cape Town
Africa Oil Week is one of the continent’s largest gatherings for industry leaders and policymakers in the energy sector. It provides a platform to discuss the sustainable development of Africa’s oil and gas resources while transitioning towards cleaner energy alternatives. Key topics include energy security, investments, and the continent’s potential for green energy initiatives.

7. Green Energy Africa Summit (7–11 October)

Location: Cape Town
Coinciding with Africa Oil Week, the Green Energy Africa Summit aims to accelerate the continent’s transition to renewable energy. The event brings together stakeholders from across the energy value chain to explore clean energy solutions. Expect discussions on solar, wind, and hydro energy innovations, along with opportunities for green investments in Africa.

8. Transport Evolution Africa Forum & Expo (8–10 October)

Location: Johannesburg
This forum is Africa’s leading annual event dedicated to port, rail, and road infrastructure. The Transport Evolution Africa Expo attracts both public and private sector representatives from across the continent to discuss advancements in transport and logistics, focusing on improving Africa’s connectivity.

9. SATNAC (6–9 October)

Location: Skukuza, Kruger National Park
The Southern Africa Telecommunication Networks and Applications Conference (SATNAC) offers a platform for telecommunications professionals and researchers to share the latest advancements in ICT. With a backdrop of the scenic Kruger National Park, attendees can engage in discussions around the future of telecoms and technology innovation in the region.

10. DigiMarCon South Africa (10–11 October)

Location: Sandton, Johannesburg
Digital marketers, entrepreneurs, and tech enthusiasts should not miss the DigiMarCon South Africa conference. This event offers insights into the latest trends in digital marketing, SEO, and social media strategies. It’s an excellent opportunity for networking and learning from industry thought leaders.

11. Mine Closure Conference (9–10 October)

Location: Johannesburg
This conference addresses the environmental and social impacts of mining activities in South Africa and beyond. It focuses on mine closure best practices, sustainability, and rehabilitation efforts, drawing industry leaders and environmentalists together to chart a path for responsible mining.

12. IEEE PES/IAS PowerAfrica Conference (7–11 October)

Location: Johannesburg
For those in the power and energy sector, the IEEE PowerAfrica conference is an unmissable event. This conference tackles some of Africa’s most pressing energy challenges, with discussions on renewable energy solutions, energy storage, and smart grid technologies. Attendees include engineers, policymakers, and researchers aiming to foster energy sustainability.

13. Elite Sport Summit (9–10 October)

Location: Cape Town
This summit is dedicated to pushing the boundaries of human performance, bringing together elite athletes, coaches, and sports scientists. With a focus on innovation in training, nutrition, and technology, the Elite Sport Summit is essential for anyone involved in sports management and performance enhancement.

14. Rocking the Daisies (3-6 October, Darling)

One of South Africa’s most popular music festivals, featuring a diverse lineup, including Snoh Aalegra and Ayra Starr. Expect top-notch performances across multiple stages, great food, and unforgettable vibes.

15. Spring Fiesta (5 October, Johannesburg)

Taking place at Wild Waters, this one-day festival will feature over 75 artists, including Shimza, Cassper Nyovest, and international acts like Joe Lobel and Crackazat. With six stages covering genres from Hip Hop to Amapiano and AfroTech, it’s one of the premier music events in the country.

16.Navy Festival (4-6 October, Simon’s Town)

Held in Simon’s Town, this festival showcases the South African Navy’s ships, submarines, and military drills. It’s a family-friendly event that also includes live performances by the SA Navy Band.

17. Cape Town Country Festival (26-27 October, Cape Town)

A two-day festival featuring country music icons such as Kip Moore and Zac Brown Band. Perfect for fans of the genre looking for a laid-back yet energetic atmosphere.

18. Bloom Festival (4-6 October, Magaliesburg)

Set in the scenic Magaliesburg, Bloom Festival combines nature and music, creating a holistic experience with performances from local DJs and artists.

19. Secret Sunsets at Cabo Beach Club, Cape Town

A beach party where South Africa’s top musical talents like Culoe De Song and Lemon & Herb will perform. Dance floors, ocean views, and a VIP experience make it a perfect way to enjoy Cape Town’s beach vibe.

20. Ultra Music Festival

A massive two-day electronic dance music (EDM) event hosted in both Cape Town and Johannesburg. The festival features world-renowned DJs and electrifying stage productions.

21. Cape Town Mardi Gras Pride Festival

As part of Pride Month, this vibrant celebration will take place at Green Point Track, showcasing the diversity of Cape Town’s LGBTQIA+ community with performances, stalls, and food.

22. MoFestival Teaser

Held at Du Kloof Lodge, this teaser party is part of the global Modem Festival, bringing exciting performances and visual artistry.

23. Jozi Kota Festival – 5th October 2024

Held at The Station ZA, this culinary event is a paradise for kota lovers, offering a family-friendly atmosphere with live entertainment.

24. Back to the City Festival – 12th October 2024

Africa’s largest Hip-Hop festival returns to Mary Fitzgerald Square, Newtown. Featuring over 100 artists and a plethora of stalls, it’s a must for hip-hop enthusiasts.

25. Red Bull Showrun – 6th October 2024

Motorsport fans can witness the power of the RB7 Formula One car up close in this thrilling showcase of speed and engineering.

26. Roald Dahl’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory Ballet – 4th–13th October 202

A family-friendly ballet performance by the Joburg Ballet, offering a unique take on the beloved classic.

27. TECHSPO Johannesburg & DigiMarCon – 10th & 11th October 2024

These concurrent events focus on digital marketing, tech innovation, and business, hosted at the Hyatt Regency.

28. Johannesburg Pride Parade and Festival – 26th October 2024

A vibrant celebration of the LGBTQIA+ community, this annual event is a powerful expression of love and inclusivity.

29. The Amazing Race Waterfall City – 12th October 2024

A team-based adventure at Waterfall City, challenging participants to solve clues and complete tasks.

30. Arts Alive Festival (ongoing until March 2024)

A major cultural celebration in the city, featuring local and international talent. Expect events like the Creative Native Vintage Motor Show, Indigenous Gospel Festival, Joburg Choral Festival, and Jazz in the Lights.

31. Pick n Pay Wine & Food Festival

Taking place on the same day (October 5) at The Wanderers Club, this festival is perfect for wine enthusiasts.

32. SPAR Women’s Challenge Jozi

For sports lovers, this popular race is happening on October 6 at Marks Park Sports Club.

The October 2024 Gig Guide highlights a diverse range of events across South Africa, including major festivals, concerts, cultural showcases, and professional conferences. Don’t miss out on these incredible happenings throughout the country!

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