Cape Argus

Braai beats, big laughs set to light up Ultimate Braai Festival 2025

Staff Reporter|Published

Durban-born jazz-gospel virtuoso Lungelo Hlongwane has shared stages with legends like Joyous Celebration, Judith Sephuma, and Sibongile Khumalo, and performed at major events including the Metro Awards and SAMA Awards.

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Droomsindroom, the Pretoria brother duo Kirsten Richard and Kyle Joshua, will preview their upcoming English debut, 'Dream Syndrome (Season 1)', due in December.

Image: Supplied

Loufi (Jean-Luc Handel) from Port Elizabeth delivers a mix of authenticity and humour.

Image: Supplied

Jasper Dan, formed in 2015, the band, led by Jamie Hendry (vocals), Barrett Cawood (guitar), Jason Eedes (drums), and Mark Kenyon (bass), has evolved from covers to original tracks full of grit and groove. Their latest single, Mama Voodoo, is already making waves.

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Ross Learmonth, formerly of Prime Circle, will showcase his songwriting depth and signature rock style.

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The Ultimate Braai Festival 2025 is set to fire up Zwavelpoort, Pretoria, on 4 and 5 October, bringing together some of South Africa’s top music acts and comedians for a weekend of entertainment. Festival-goers can expect a mix of rock, pop, rap, jazz and gospel performances, alongside laughter, food and braai competitions.

The Soundtrack to the Flames

Johannesburg-based rock band Jasper Dan delivers Southern rock energy with high-octane performances. 

Pop sensations Droomsindroom, the Pretoria brother duo Kirsten Richard and Kyle Joshua, are ruling the charts with feel-good Afrikaans hits like Hey Sonneblom, Ek Ly Aan, and Dans Alleen

Rock icon Ross Learmonth, formerly of Prime Circle, brings his solo artistry to the festival. 

Afrikaans rap innovator Loufi (Jean-Luc Handel) from Port Elizabeth delivers a mix of authenticity and humour. 

Singer-songwriter Jody Mayhew, a self-taught guitarist from Pietermaritzburg and raised in Brits, offers soulful alt-indie-country tunes. 

Durban-born jazz-gospel virtuoso Lungelo Hlongwane brings polished technique and soul-stirring performances. 

…And a Side of Comedy

No braai is complete without laughs. The festival’s comedy line-up includes:

  • David Kau, the trailblazer who put South African comedy on the global map.

  • Nick Goliath, the warm, relatable jokester.

  • Richelieu Beaunoir, sharp, quick, and hilarious with a foodie twist.

  • Dave Levinsohn (aka The Festival Fairy), the cheeky MC keeping mischief alive all weekend.

Festival Highlights

  • Saturday 10am to 10pm: Jasper Dan, Droomsindroom, Ross Learmonth, Loufi + Big Screen Rugby (SA vs ARG)

  • Sunday 10am to 5pm: Jody Mayhew, Lungelo & The Organ Project

  • Plus: DIY Braai Area, Ultimate Braai Competition, Braai Expo, Food Vendors, Craft Beer & Wine Route, Kids’ Zone, and more

A Festival of Stars

The Ultimate Braai Festival 2025 promises world-class music and comedy, combining rock riffs, rap beats, soulful chords, and belly laughs. It’s South Africa’s biggest celebration of fire, flavour, and fun, where both local talent and festival-goers come together for the ultimate braai weekend.

Tickets are selling on Quicket.