Illustration. Picture: Pexels
Spring in South Africa isn’t just about blooming flowers and warmer days — it’s also festival season. From coastal whale celebrations to vibrant community fairs, spring draws travellers looking for music, culture, and unforgettable experiences.
Here’s a roundup of the top events shaping 2025 spring getaways.
Spring Fiesta
Kick off the season in Joburg, where the Spring Fiesta sets pulses racing with world-class DJs and lively dance floors. This festival has become a must-visit for local and international travellers seeking a mix of music, fashion, and energy. Beyond the beats, festival-goers can explore Johannesburg’s cultural hubs, trendy eateries, and vibrant nightlife.
Hermanus Whale Festival
One of South Africa’s oldest eco-marine festivals, the Hermanus Whale Festival combines whale-watching, street parades, food stalls, and live music. Held in the Western Cape, it coincides with the peak season for Southern Right whale sightings. Travellers can pair the festival with wine tasting in Hemel-en-Aarde Valley or coastal hikes for a full spring experience.
Khayelitsha Spring Festival
Replacing larger city-centric events, the Khayelitsha Spring Festival brings community, culture, and creativity together. Visitors can enjoy local music, dance performances, crafts, and street food, all while supporting small businesses and engaging with one of Cape Town’s most vibrant townships. This festival offers a more intimate, authentic spring experience that celebrates local talent.
Macufe Festival
The Mangaung African Cultural Festival (Macufe) in Bloemfontein is a highlight for art, music, and heritage enthusiasts. Spring visitors can enjoy concerts, traditional performances, and contemporary arts, all set against the backdrop of the Free State’s open landscapes. Macufe is a perfect opportunity to combine festival fun with nearby sightseeing and culinary adventures.
Magoebaskloof Spring Festival
Set in the lush Limpopo highlands, the Magoebaskloof Spring Festival celebrates nature and creativity. With colourful flower displays, craft markets, live music, and hiking trails, this festival is ideal for families and outdoor lovers. Visitors can explore waterfalls, forests, and scenic trails, making it a nature-filled spring escape.
Why spring festivals are travel magnets
From whale-watching to house beats, festivals are more than entertainment — they’re travel drivers. South Africans are planning trips around these experiences, often extending weekends into multi-day getaways. Pairing festivals with nearby attractions enhances the journey, whether it’s wine valleys, coastal hikes, or scenic forest trails.
Spring 2025 is a season to embrace movement, music, and nature. With so many events across South Africa, travellers can craft itineraries that celebrate local culture, natural beauty, and community spirit.
Written by Lee-Ann Steyn
First Published on Getaway
Also see: Spring Family Adventures: Trips That Bloom Into Lasting Memories