
Tana Malinga
The much-loved Kota Festival comes alive today at FNB Stadium, Nasrec, bringing together food lovers, families, and festival goers for a full day of flavour and fun. Gates open at 10:00 in the morning and the celebration continues until midnight, making it one of the biggest township food experiences in the country.
This year’s festival is powered by big brands such as Albany, Clover, Thompson Meats and Sunfoil, showing strong support for township street food culture. The event is led by a passionate organising team that wants to give small businesses and young food creators a chance to shine.
Festival-goers can expect more than 50 stalls. Around forty will serve their own unique takes on the kota — from traditional favourites to bold, creative twists — while other vendors will offer snacks, drinks, ice cream, and merchandise. There will also be brand activations, lifestyle areas, and live entertainment throughout the day, creating a buzzing atmosphere.
Families are well catered for. A special kids’ zone comes with its own stage, lights and music, plus play areas and jumping castles, giving young ones their own space to enjoy.
Tickets for adults are selling from R200, with VIP packages available for those who want an extra touch of luxury. Early bird tickets have already sold out, showing the strong pull of this event.
Organisers are preparing for a crowd of more than 15,000 people, a clear sign that the Kota Festival has grown into one of Johannesburg’s most anticipated cultural gatherings

