Zakes Bantwini to Headline South Africa’s Biggest Music & Sports Festival in Jeffreys Bay

South Africa’s largest sport and music extravaganza is just under a month away, promising ten days filled with exhilarating action, world-class entertainment, and unforgettable memories. From 11 to 20 July, Jeffreys Bay will transform into the ultimate winter destination as it hosts the renowned J-Bay Surf Festival, combining top-tier surfing with electrifying music and sporting events.

The festival marks the much-anticipated return of the World Surf League (WSL) Championship Tour to Jeffreys Bay’s iconic Supertubes after a one-year break. This legendary right-hand break will welcome the world’s best surfers back to compete in one of the most breathtaking settings globally.

When the surfing competitions wind down each day, the energy doesn’t stop. The ParkOFF Music Festival will keep the party alive over both weekends, offering non-stop beats and world-class performances that guarantee to keep visitors dancing late into the night.

Grammy-winning artist Zakes Bantwini will be the standout headliner for the opening weekend (11-13 July), bringing his signature afro sound to the shores of Jeffreys Bay. Fans can also look forward to performances from African house and techno pioneer Dino Moran and the crowd-favourite electronic DJ Dean Fuel, ensuring a rich and diverse musical lineup.

Dino Moran, a veteran of the J-Bay Surf Festival with 15 years of performances under his belt, reminisces about the festival’s most memorable highlights. He recalls the magical 2010 prize-giving ceremony when South African surf legend Jordy Smith clinched his first WSL Championship Tour win on Mandela Day. “The atmosphere was electric, filled with patriotic energy, champagne in the air, and the sun setting over Supertubes. It was pure magic,” says Moran. “2025 is shaping up to be another iconic year for South African surfing, and my set will match that energy.”

The second weekend (18-20 July) will feature international and local heavyweights, including Italy’s techno maestro TribalNeed, dynamic South African duo Cinimin, and electro icon Niskerone. The festival will close with a bang during the Sunday closing party, featuring ParkOFF Residents and special surprise guests.

On Monday, 14 July, comedy lovers will be treated to a night of laughter with some of South Africa’s finest stand-up comedians, including Rob van Vuuren, Kagiso “KG” Mokgadi, Robby Collins, and Emilio Tobias.

Beyond the stage, the J-Bay Surf Festival offers a thrilling variety of activities for sports fans and adventure seekers. On 19 July, mountain biking and trail running races will cater to all skill levels, with routes ranging from 10 to 60 km for MTB and 5 to 10 km for trail runs. A high-stakes Jiu Jitsu tournament boasting the largest prize pool in South African history takes place from 19-20 July. On 12 July, there will be a family-friendly off-road motorbike adventure organized by Funduro. The popular J-Bay Skins Fishing Competition will be held on 19 July, with prizes and bragging rights on the line. Also on 19 July, touch rugby and volleyball showdowns will take place on Main Beach, offering cash prizes and exciting goodies.

Spanning two weekends during the school holidays, the festival offers a fantastic opportunity for families and festival-goers to experience a unique blend of sport, music, and adventure in one of South Africa’s most picturesque coastal towns. With an expected attendance of up to 70,000 visitors, early travel and accommodation bookings are highly recommended.

“We’re expecting the biggest crowd yet,” says festival organiser Ari Kraak. “The energy and entertainment levels are dialled up this year. If you want a beach holiday combined with top-class entertainment, Jeffreys Bay is the place to be. The ParkOFF Music Festival, headlined by Zakes Bantwini and featuring Italy’s TribalNeed among other top acts, will keep everyone dancing long into the night.”

For the full event schedule and ticket information, visit the official J-Bay Surf Festival website and prepare yourself for South Africa’s ultimate winter celebration of music, sports, and culture.