The Soweto Kota Festival is set to return for its ninth edition on 5 and 6 September 2026, bringing together food lovers, families, music fans and entrepreneurs at the Elkah Cricket Oval in Rockville, Soweto.
Hosted by SID Entertainment Pty Ltd, the festival has grown into one of Soweto’s major community events since its launch nine years ago, attracting thousands of people with its combination of live entertainment, township cuisine and family-friendly activities.
The festival has consistently attracted crowds of more than 15,000 people, with last year’s eighth edition drawing more than 16,000 attendees across the two days. Organisers recorded about 9,000 visitors on the Saturday and 7,000 on the Sunday, while more than 70 kota vendors and traders took part.
The event’s main attraction remains the kota, one of South Africa’s most recognisable township food creations, with vendors expected to showcase their own interpretations of the popular sandwich. Around 40 vendors are expected at this year’s festival, with kota options available from about R60.
The organisers say the event has also developed into a platform for small businesses and emerging entrepreneurs, providing them with an opportunity to reach a large audience while contributing to the local economy.
The festival has grown significantly since its early years. From approximately 15,000 visitors in 2019, attendance reached a record 18,000 during its fifth year, further establishing the event as part of Soweto’s annual cultural calendar.
Food will once again share the spotlight with entertainment, with live performances from local artists planned across both days. The 2026 festival will also feature the Best Kota Competition, which aims to crown the country’s top kota vendor.
Last year’s competition saw 2 Selai take the top spot, followed by Zaza’s Eatery in second place and Ko-boiketlong Situations in third.
Beyond entertainment and food, the festival has a strong community and employment focus. More than 40 unemployed young people from Soweto are expected to be employed on the day as part of the organisers’ efforts to create temporary work opportunities and support local families.
The festival has also attracted growing interest from sponsors, particularly companies in the fast-moving consumer goods sector, as brands look to connect with consumers through an authentic township platform. Renault is among the sponsors supporting the event, with the organisers also highlighting the contribution of partners who have helped the festival grow.
Tshingilane said the support received from partners remains an important part of making the festival possible.
“The Soweto Kota Festival is more than an event — it’s a celebration of heritage, community, and the entrepreneurial spirit of Soweto,” Tshingilane said. “As we head into our 9th year, we’re excited to welcome media, partners, and fans back to experience what makes this festival so special.”
The 2026 programme will also include brand activations, giveaways and interactive experiences, alongside a platform for kota vendors and general traders to showcase their businesses.
A media launch is scheduled to take place at Soweto Theatre, the same venue where the inaugural Soweto Kota Festival was held nine years ago. Organisers are expected to unveil the event’s partners at the launch, while members of the media will have an opportunity to engage with organisers and receive further details about this year’s programme.
With its combination of food, music, entrepreneurship and community development, the Soweto Kota Festival continues to position itself as more than a food festival, offering a platform that celebrates one of South Africa’s most beloved township dishes while creating opportunities for local businesses and young people.
The ninth edition will take place at the Elkah Cricket Oval in Rockville, Soweto, on 5 and 6 September 2026.
