The KZN South Coast, specifically Port Shepstone, is gearing up to host the sixth edition of the Ugu Maskandi Festival on September 26, 2026. Organised by Ugu Broadcasting Services (UBS), this event has evolved from a small community gathering of 300 people in 2021 into one of KwaZulu-Natal's most anticipated cultural events.
The festival has experienced significant growth over the years, with the 2025 edition attracting over 15,000 patrons from across KwaZulu-Natal, the Eastern Cape, and Gauteng. This year's event aims to continue the celebration of Maskandi music, culture, and local enterprise, with a strong focus on showcasing the talent and creativity of the Ugu District.
A dedicated vendor exhibition hub will be part of the festival, providing local fashion designers, artisans, craft-makers, and entrepreneurs with an opportunity to showcase and sell their products to thousands of visitors. This platform will not only promote local businesses but also contribute to the local economy.
The Ugu Maskandi Festival also presents an opportunity for visitors to experience the beauty of the KZN South Coast, often referred to as the Paradise of the Zulu Kingdom. Festival-goers are encouraged to explore the destination's 58 beaches, coastal towns, nature-based attractions, and rich cultural experiences, making their festival trip a memorable getaway.
South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise CEO, Dr Vusumuzi Sibiya, highlighted the significance of the festival in demonstrating the powerful connection between culture, tourism, and local economic development. He noted that the event brings thousands of visitors to the destination, creating opportunities for local businesses, artists, traders, and accommodation establishments.
The festival's growing appeal across provincial borders further strengthens its role as a tourism driver for the region, supporting local businesses and contributing to economic growth. The event's impact on the local economy is substantial, with benefits extending to accommodation establishments, restaurants, transport operators, retailers, and local SMMEs.
For more information about the Ugu Maskandi Festival, interested parties can contact Siyabonga Mkhungo on 073-957-9010 or visit www.visitkznsouthcoast.co.za to plan a Heritage Month getaway. The festival promises to be an exciting event, showcasing the best of Maskandi music, culture, and local enterprise on the KZN South Coast.
Key points
- The Ugu Maskandi Festival has grown from a 300-person community gathering in 2021 into one of KwaZulu-Natal's most anticipated cultural events.
- The 2025 edition of the festival attracted over 15,000 patrons from across KwaZulu-Natal, the Eastern Cape, and Gauteng.
- The festival will take place on September 26, 2026, on the KZN South Coast, specifically in Port Shepstone.
