Lonwabo Mtyeku | Photo Credit: Supplied
Benoni, Gauteng – The countdown is officially on. One of South Africa’s most loved cultural and culinary celebrations, the Kota Festival Tour, is back — and it’s kicking off in spectacular fashion with the Eastrand Kota Festival on 28 March at Willmore Stadium in Benoni.
More than just a food festival, the Kota Festival has grown into a vibrant movement that celebrates township culture, entrepreneurship, and the unmistakable flavour of South Africa’s favourite street food — the kota. The Eastrand edition marks the official launch of the 2026 Kota Festival Tour, setting the tone for a year packed with flavour, music, community pride, and unforgettable experiences.
A Celebration of Food, Culture and Community
At its heart, the Kota Festival is about bringing people together. Families, food lovers, students, and culture enthusiasts can expect a full day of entertainment, mouth-watering kota creations, live performances, and activities for all ages.
From classic kota combinations to bold, creative twists by some of the country’s best vendors, the festival promises an authentic township experience that reflects the heartbeat of South Africa’s streets.
With tickets starting at just R80 for kids, R100 for students, and R150 for adults, the festival remains accessible to all. Tickets are available via Computicket and at Checkers, Shoprite, Usave, and OK Foods outlets nationwide.
Big Music, Big Energy
Adding even more excitement to the 2026 tour is the announcement of Lwah Ndlunkulu as the festival’s newest brand ambassador and strategic partner. She joins long-time ambassador Somizi Mhlongo, strengthening the festival’s deep connection to South African music, storytelling, and popular culture.
Festivalgoers in the East Rand can expect high-energy performances, familiar faces, and moments that capture the true essence of township life — vibrant, expressive, and unapologetically authentic.
More Than a Festival — A Movement
Ahead of the tour launch, the Kota Festival hosted a highly successful Gauteng Kota Festival Business Workshop at the Emperors Palace Convention Centre, reinforcing its commitment to empowerment and sustainable entrepreneurship.
The session, hosted by MC Napo Modise, brought together aspiring and established food entrepreneurs from across the province. The festival’s leadership team outlined a powerful vision — one that goes beyond food and focuses on economic empowerment, job creation, and long-term business sustainability.
Industry leaders David Mofokeng of The Food Shed and Mam Miya of Amazizi Kitchen shared valuable insights, practical advice, and personal journeys that inspired attendees to view their kota businesses as scalable enterprises.
Participants also received guidance on:
- Festival participation and vendor applications
- Business compliance and COA (Section 638) requirements
- Building credible, sustainable food businesses
The session highlighted one clear truth: the Kota Festival is not just about selling food — it’s about building futures.
Powered by Purposeful Partnerships
The continued growth of the Kota Festival is made possible through the support of partners who believe in community upliftment and local enterprise. Special recognition goes to Albany (Karabo Lubisi) and Parmalat (Mahlatse Sethole) for their commitment to empowering vendors and elevating the festival experience.
The level of engagement during the workshop — particularly during the Q&A session — reinforced just how invested communities are in the success of the movement.
2026 Kota Festival Tour Dates
The 2026 tour will travel across South Africa and beyond, bringing the Kota experience to thousands of fans:
- 28 March – Eastrand Kota Festival
- 25 April – Jozi Kota Festival
- 2 May – Mpumalanga Kota Festival
- 6 June – eThekwini Kota Festival
- 1 August – Limpopo Kota Festival
- 29 August – Vaal Kota Festival
- 5 September – Cape Town Kota Festival
- 3 October – Jozi Kota Festival
- 24 October – Eswatini Kota Festival
- 31 October – Pitori Kota Festival
- 7 November – Tembisa Kota Festival
- 28 November – Free State Kota Festival
- 5 December – Lesotho Kota Festival
Taking Kota to the World
As excitement builds toward the Benoni launch, Kota Festival COO Luvo Limba captured the spirit of the movement perfectly:
“Let us join hands and efforts as we take Kota to the world.”
With its unique blend of food, culture, empowerment, and entertainment, the Kota Festival continues to prove that something as simple as a kota can spark community pride, economic opportunity, and national celebration.
Come hungry. Leave inspired.
