The popular Makhelwane Festival is once-again presented by the creatives at LoCrate Market with the aim of connecting neighbours and communities through local small and medium enterprises and entrepreneurs. “Makhelwane” is a Zulu term that refers to one’s neighbour, but in African culture the term is deeper than that – it refers to a community. The Festival will run from January 27th at Thesis Lifestyle, Soweto with business talks and a night market experience and on 27th & 28th the actual festival will take place at Poka Street in Orlando West.

This year the festival will incorporate: a food carnival, music fest, arts and crafts, a movie screening,  street dining and bubbly garden, exhibitions, entertainment for kids as well as a market run entirely by children and a series of business talks. A weekend pass is R250 and a day ticket is R150 HERE. Freaky Friday, January 27, kicks off at 15:00 with the MY SIDE HUSTLE Business Talks focussed  around shining a spotlight on different side hustles developed by well-known entrepreneurs.

The first speaker is Tlhompho “Jeff” Mokoena, the founder of The Wing Republic and The Wing Republic  Plus!. Mokoena is a pioneer in the catering/events space. Entrance is free. Nostalgic Saturday from 13.00 at Poka Street will feature Nicky B, DJ Christos, Lady Sakhe,Deep Xcape, Fang DaRhythm, Ed Soul, Gigi, Soulounge and Doda. Perfect Sunday on January 29 is given over to artists and musos who will be performing live at Poka St, Orlando West. On the bill is K.O, Langa Mavuso and DJs Lula Odiba and Thabo Phalatse as well as Themba Lunacy.

The opening event on January 27 introduces the festival and its partners and sponsors – Gauteng Tourism Authority, Joburg Tourism Company and Jägermeister –and provide a road map of what to expect from the festival with beautiful live performances and a number of local DJs.