Major Events & Festivals in Durban, South Africa

1. Durban July

Annual horse race event held at Greyville Racecourse, attracting thousands of spectators.

Fashion Event: Known for its extravagant fashion and hat competition.
Horse Racing Experience: Offers an exciting horse racing experience with high-stakes bets.
Social Gathering: A chance to socialize and network with Durban's high society.

Celebration of local arts, culture, and food in Umhlanga during the summer months.

Artistic Expression: Showcases work by local artists and performers.
Cultural Exchange: Promotes understanding of Zulu and other African cultures.
Community Bonding: Provides opportunities for community members to engage and connect.

Three-day music festival along Durban's Golden Mile featuring international artists.

International Artists: Attracts world-renowned musicians to perform.
Beachside Location: Held along Durban's beautiful beaches with a view of the Indian Ocean.
Cultural Diversity: Embraces various musical genres from around the world.

Annual event showcasing live music, food stalls, and water sports at Ushaka Marine World.

Water Sports Experience: Offers opportunities to try water activities like jet-skiing or surfing.
Live Music Showcases: Features a variety of local and international musicians.
Cultural Exposure: Highlights Durban's diverse culture through performances and exhibitions.

Annual celebration of the LGBTQ+ community in Durban with a parade and festivities.

Community Visibility: Empowers and raises awareness for the LGBTQ+ community.
Cultural Diversity: Embraces diversity within the LGBTQ+ community.
Networking Opportunities: Provides chances to connect and make new friends.

Annual migration of sardines along the KwaZulu-Natal coast, attracting marine predators.

Marine Wildlife Experience: Offers an unparalleled opportunity to observe marine life.
Photography Opportunities: Permits spectacular photography of the sardine run and predators.
Eco-tourism: Promotes responsible tourism practices and conservation efforts.

Performance festival in KwaMashu showcasing traditional Zulu dance and music.

Cultural Immersion: Allows visitors to immerse themselves in Zulu culture.
Traditional Performances: Offers unique and authentic traditional performances.
Community Support: Supports local artists and encourages the preservation of Zulu culture.

Annual event celebrating street art, graffiti, and urban culture.

Artistic Expression: Showcases local and international street artists.
Urban Landscape Transformation: Transforms public spaces with vibrant and dynamic art.
Community Engagement: Encourages community involvement in creating public art.

Annual film festival showcasing local and international films.

Film Premiere Opportunities: Offers opportunities to see new releases and world premieres.
Cultural Exchange: Promotes cultural understanding through films from around the world.
Networking Opportunities: Provides chances to connect with film industry professionals.

Celebration of the Hindu festival of Diwali in Durban's Chatsworth area.

Cultural Understanding: Offers an opportunity to learn about Hindu culture and traditions.
Community Bonding: Promotes unity within the Indian community in Durban.
Food and Shopping: Features delicious food stalls and shopping opportunities.

Monthly concerts at the Umhlanga Common during the summer season.

Live Music Experience: Offers a variety of musical genres for visitors to enjoy.
Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Provides a safe and enjoyable environment for families.
Community Involvement: Supports local artists and encourages community involvement.

Annual commemoration of King Shaka's coronation in KwaMashu.

Historical Significance: Provides an opportunity to learn about Zulu history and culture.
Cultural Appreciation: Honors the legacy of King Shaka and his contributions to the Zulu Kingdom.
Community Unity: Promotes unity within the Zulu community and beyond.

Annual festival dedicated to the traditional sport of tug of war in Durban.

Competitive Spirit: Offers opportunities for friendly competition and camaraderie.
Cultural Tradition: Preserves the traditional Zulu sport of tug of war.
Community Engagement: Encourages participation and community involvement.

Annual jazz festival featuring local and international artists.

Jazz Appreciation: Showcases various genres of jazz music.
Cultural Exchange: Promotes cultural understanding through jazz performances.
Networking Opportunities: Provides chances to connect with jazz industry professionals.

Annual boat and marine expo showcasing the latest in boating technology.

Marine Technology: Offers opportunities to learn about the latest in boat technology.
Recreational Opportunities: Provides insights into recreational boating and watersports.
Networking Opportunities: Allows visitors to connect with marine industry professionals.