The highly anticipated Kota Festival is back, promising to take South Africa by storm with an electrifying 2024 tour. Known for celebrating the iconic street food, the kota, this year’s festival is set to be bigger and better than ever, thanks to a groundbreaking partnership with some of South Africa’s most renowned brands.
In a historic first, Albany Bakeries has signed on as the title sponsor of the Kota Festival Tour, committing an impressive R12.9 million investment over three years. This unprecedented sponsorship will support 24 events nationwide, creating over 2,000 job opportunities while empowering the informal market. Tiger Brands, the parent company of Albany, further strengthens this initiative by aligning All Gold Tomato Sauce as a key partner, amplifying their shared mission to uplift local communities and showcase South Africa’s rich culinary traditions.
A Nationwide Celebration of South African Food and Culture
The Kota Festival Tour first debuted in Gauteng in 2023, making waves as the first event of its kind. In 2024, the festival is set to expand across the country, bringing its unique blend of food, music, art, and culture to major cities and towns. Featuring the beloved kota, a culinary symbol of South African street food, the tour promises an unforgettable experience for all attendees.
Kota Festival Tour 2025 Schedule:
• 1 March: Eastrand Kota Festival, Emperors Palace, Kempton Park
• 5 April: Jozi Kota Festival, The Station ZA, Newtown, Johannesburg
• 3 May: Mpumalanga Kota Festival, Nelspruit Botanical Gardens
• 31 May: Ethekwini Kota Festival, People’s Park, Moses Mabhida Stadium, Durban
• 30 August: Vaal Kota Festival, Vaal
• 6 September: Capetown Kota Festival, Castle of Good Hope
• 28 September: Eswatini Kota Festival, Malkerns Country Club
• 4 October: Jozi Kota Festival, Johannesburg
• 25 October: Freestate Kota Festival, Bloemfontein
• 1 November: Lesotho Kota Festival, Maseru Club
• 29 November: Pitori Kota Festival, Fountains Valley, Pretoria
Albany and All Gold: Driving the Festival’s Success
Albany’s sponsorship not only elevates the festival’s scale but also underscores its commitment to the informal market. By partnering with the Entrepreneurship and Skills Development (ESD) Program, Albany aims to empower small businesses and food vendors through skills training and mentorship.
Meanwhile, All Gold Tomato Sauce, a sister brand to Albany under the Tiger Brands umbrella, joins as a key partner. Together, these brands will ensure festival-goers enjoy high-quality products that celebrate South Africa’s unique flavors while supporting local entrepreneurs.
More Than Just a Festival
The Kota Festival is more than a celebration of food—it’s a platform for social impact. By creating job opportunities, promoting local businesses, and providing training through initiatives like the ESD Program, the festival is actively uplifting communities.
Craig Wilkinson, founder of Father A Nation and a vocal advocate for community empowerment, noted that initiatives like these play a crucial role in transforming South Africa’s informal economy. “Events like the Kota Festival showcase the potential of partnerships to create tangible, lasting change,” he said.
Don’t Miss Out!
As the Kota Festival Tour kicks off in March 2025, it’s set to become the must-attend event of the year. Whether you’re a foodie, music enthusiast, or cultural explorer, this tour offers a unique chance to experience the heart of South African street culture while supporting local businesses and empowering communities.
For updates and ticket information, visit the festival’s official website or follow its social media pages.
