• Fri. Jan 16th, 2026
Zonke, Sjava and TboseZonke, Sjava and Tbose. Pictures: Supplied

South Africa’s most beloved voices are set to share one stage as Zonke Dikana, Sjava, Mandisi Dyantyis, The Soil and Tbose headline the 2025 edition of Soul By The River, happening on Saturday, 13 December at Dickinson Park in Vereeniging.

With a lineup this strong, the festival is shaping up to be one of Gauteng’s standout year-end gatherings for fans of soulful, contemporary local music.

Returning to the scenic banks of the Vaal River at the peak of the festive season, Soul By The River will once again draw thousands for a full-day blend of culture, lifestyle and live performances. With summer in full swing and the holiday spirit settling in across the province, the event promises a refreshing riverside escape filled with great music, community warmth and a vibrant celebration of South African creativity.

Performing with the rest of the lineup, Mandisi Dyantis is ready to wow the audience. Picture: Supplied
Performing with the rest of the lineup, Mandisi Dyantis is ready to wow the audience. Picture: Supplied

Where soulful performances meet community impact

Along with the headliners, a strong mix of national and local musicians and DJs will keep the energy flowing from morning until midnight, offering everything from full-band performances to soulful sets and modern grooves. The Vaal River’s natural charm adds to the festival’s intimate yet buzzing atmosphere, cementing its place as one of Gauteng’s most anticipated cultural highlights.

When asked about the event, Thikho Events Managing Director, Mr Richard Ramudzuli, expressed his thoughts:

“Belgravia Soul By The River is a catalyst for township and peri-urban growth. We consistently invest in small businesses, from vendors to service providers, to ensure the event strengthens the communities that make Gauteng thrive,” said Richard.

A festival that fuels local tourism and community growth

Beyond the music, the festival brings a real economic boost to the Vaal. Local hotels, guesthouses, transport services, food vendors and lifestyle traders all benefit from the wave of visitors the event attracts. For the region, it’s more than a celebration — it’s a festive-season tourism lift and a valuable support system for small businesses.

Festival-goers can look forward to a laid-back riverside picnic atmosphere, unique food and drink stalls, a curated lifestyle market and premium hospitality options, including a VIP area with views over the water. The suggested dress code is Military Green, adding a unified visual flair to the day. To keep everyone safe, strict security will be in place, and no bottles will be permitted on site.

Event details

  • Tickets are available through www.thikhoevents.com, Computicket at Shoprite and Checkers outlets, and at Pick n Pay and Webtickets. 
  • For updates, visit www.thikhoevents.com or contact 082 844 5460 / 079 399 2004 or email info@thikhoevents.com.

    Editorial Note:
    No payment or sponsorship influenced the publication of this content

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By Asanda Mbayimbayi

Asanda Mbayimbayi is an award-winning Lifestyle & Entertainment News Editor and Journalist celebrated for her dynamic voice in digital lifestyle, entertainment, and hard news journalism. Honoured with the Galliova People’s Hero 2025 Award for her authentic storytelling and powerful connection with audiences, she continues to redefine journalism with purpose, empathy, and impact. With an instinct for uncovering stories that resonate and a deep understanding of audience engagement, Asanda brings clarity, depth, and heart to every piece she crafts. Beyond the newsroom, she wears many hats — Researcher, Qualified Bible Teacher, Content Creator, Producer, Motivational Speaker, and Book Editor to name a few — using her creative and spiritual insight to inspire transformation through words. Whether leading editorial teams, producing meaningful content, or motivating audiences, Asanda stands as a storyteller driven by faith, purpose, and the power of narrative to connect and inspire.

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