Ingoma Kazwelonke 3rd Annual Festival 2024

Ingoma Kazwelonke 3rd Annual Festival Overview:

The Ingoma Kazwelonke annual festival has been a staple event in Durban’s cultural calendar, and the 2024 edition promises to be an exciting one. Scheduled to take place on June 22nd at the People’s Park, this year’s festival is been sponsored by Ilanga newspaper, Ethekweni Municipality, and the Department of Sports, Art, and Culture of the Republic of South Africa.

Unlike in previous years, where renowned Maskandi artists dominated the stage, the 2024 edition of the festival is taking a different approach. The organizers have selected 50 new artists from different genres of music to perform alongside 12 guest dance groups. This decision was made to showcase the diverse music and dance styles that South Africa has to offer.

In addition to the music and dance performances, there will be various food and craft stalls at the festival grounds. This will give attendees a chance to sample authentic South African cuisine and purchase unique, handmade crafts.

Overall, the 2024 Ingoma Kazwelonke annual festival promises to be a day filled with entertainment, culture, and celebration.

Gate Fee/Tickects:

The event has been a beloved cultural festival in Durban since its inception. One of its standout features is the free general admission, making it accessible to all. However, for those seeking a more exclusive experience, VIP tickets are available. Single VIP tickets cost R650 and include complimentary meals and access to a cash-only bar. For larger groups, VIP packages are available:

– VIP (4 tags): R5,000
– Includes 1 Hennessey, 1 Krone or 6 cider, 6 mixers, 1 hubbly, and 1 platter for 4 people
– VIP (8 tags): R10,000
– Includes 1 VSOP, 1 Jagermeister or vodka, 1 Veuve Rich, 12 cider or beer, 12 mixers, 2 hubbly, and 1 platter for 8 people
– VVIP (10 tags): R15,000
– Includes 2 VSOP, 2 Jagermeister or vodka, 2 Veuve Rich, 18 cider or beer, 18 mixers, 2 hubbly, and 1 platter for 10 people

 

Venue:

The festival is held at the iconic Moses Mabhida Stadium, located in the heart of Durban. The festival venue is at the People’s Park, which is situated within the stadium grounds. The park offers a beautiful outdoor setting with stunning views of the city skyline. The location is easily accessible by car or public transport. The address of the venue is 65 Masabalala Yengwa Avenue, Stamford Hill, Durban.

The festival celebrates the rich cultural heritage of Durban and showcases a wide range of traditional music, dance, and food. It is an exciting and vibrant event that attracts thousands of people from all over the city. The festival is a must-visit for anyone who wants to experience the unique cultural diversity of Durban.

 

What is Ingoma Kazwelonke festival all about:

The Ingoma KaZwelonke festival is a traditional South African cultural event that celebrates the rich heritage and traditions of the Zulu people. “Ingoma” means “drum” in Zulu, and “Zwelonke” means “of the Zulu nation”. The festival was inaugurated in June 4th 2022. Different individual artists, dancers and dance groups comes to perform on the day of the festival.

The festival aims to promote and preserve Zulu culture, unity, and pride, and is usually held annually in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. It’s a vibrant and colorful celebration that showcases the rich cultural heritage of the Zulu people.

The festival typically features:

1. Traditional music and dance performances: The rhythmic beats of traditional drums and instruments fill the air as vibrant dancers take to the stage, adorned in colorful traditional attire. The music and dance performances are a highlight of the Ingoma KaZwelonke festival, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the Zulu people. Expect to see energetic and graceful performances of traditional dances such as:

– Isicathamiya: a traditional Zulu dance characterized by high-energy footwork and intricate hand movements

– Indlamu: a traditional warrior dance performed by men, showcasing strength and agility

– Umgubo: a traditional women’s dance, characterized by graceful movements and harmonious singing

The performances are accompanied by traditional instruments such as the iPhiri (a type of flute), the iGqabhukuphaku (a type of drum), and the iKemba (a type of shaker instrument). The music and dance performances are a true celebration of Zulu culture and tradition and a must-see at the Ingoma KaZwelonke festival!”

2. Drumming and singing: Drumming and singing are integral parts of Zulu tradition and are showcased in all their glory at the Ingoma KaZwelonke festival.

Skilled drummers beat out intricate rhythms on handmade drums, accompanied by powerful vocalists who sing traditional songs and chants. The drumming and singing performances are often accompanied by energetic dancing and storytelling, bringing the history and culture of the Zulu people to life.

The drumming and singing performances at the festival are a true celebration of Zulu tradition and culture, and offer a unique glimpse into the rich musical heritage of South Africa.”

3. Traditional attire and regalia: Traditional clothing such as:

– Isicholo (traditional Zulu hats)

– Isidwaba (traditional Zulu skirts)

– Imvunulo (traditional Zulu aprons)

– Amabeshu (traditional Zulu beads)

are worn with pride, and adorned with intricate patterns and symbols that tell stories of Zulu history and tradition. The regalia is often made from natural materials such as cotton, wool, and beads, and is carefully crafted to reflect the wearer’s status, role, and position within the community.

The traditional attire and regalia on display at the Ingoma KaZwelonke festival are a true celebration of Zulu culture and tradition, and offer a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of South Africa.”

4. Cultural exhibitions and displays: The festival showcases a vibrant array of traditional crafts, artifacts, and cultural treasures, including:

– Traditional Zulu crafts such as basket weaving, pottery, and woodcarvings

– Colorful traditional clothing and accessories

– Intricately crafted traditional weapons and shields

– Traditional musical instruments and drums

– Vibrant traditional beadwork and jewelry

The exhibitions and displays offer a unique glimpse into the history and traditions of the Zulu people and provide a fascinating insight into the cultural significance of each item on display. Visitors can explore, learn, and even participate in traditional crafts and activities, making for an immersive and enriching experience.”

5. Traditional food and drinks: Savor the flavors of traditional Zulu cuisine at the Ingoma KaZwelonke festival, where delicious and authentic dishes are served in abundance. Some delicacies served during the Ingoma KaZwelonke festival include:

– Umgqusho (traditional Zulu samp and beans)

– Inyama rebroke (traditional Zulu beef stew)

– Ibhuku (traditional Zulu porridge)

– Amasi (traditional Zulu sour milk)

– Ushwala (traditional Zulu beer)

And don’t forget to wash it down with a cup of traditional Zulu tea, made from rooibos or honeybush leaves. The festival’s food and drink offerings are a true celebration of Zulu culture and tradition, and offer a taste of the rich culinary heritage of South Africa.

6. Traditional ceremonies and rituals: Finally, the festival showcases traditional ceremonies and rituals, which are an essential part of Zulu heritage and tradition. Experience the spiritual and cultural essence of the Zulu people through traditional ceremonies and rituals at the Ingoma KaZwelonke festival. These sacred practices, passed down through generations, are a vital part of Zulu heritage and tradition.

Witness the vibrant and emotive performances of:

– Traditional wedding ceremonies

– Coming-of-age rituals

– Ancestor worship and offerings

– Healing ceremonies and rituals

These ceremonies and rituals offer a rare glimpse into the spiritual and cultural practices of the Zulu people and provide a deeper understanding of their rich cultural heritage.