Bringing the gees to the Karoo
The Karoo is calling, and if you’re the kind of adventurer who appreciates open skies, good music and even better company, you’d best make sure your GPS is set for Oudtshoorn on 27 September 2025. Following the resounding success of the inaugural event in 2023, Suzuki Auto South Africa is gearing up for round two of the Suzuki Safari Town Festival – and this time, the party promises to be bigger, louder and even more unforgettable.
Hosted in the heart of the historic Klein Karoo town, this year’s event will transform the Oudtshoorn Recreation Ground into a vibrant hub of music, laughter and Suzuki-flavoured festivities. As part of the broader Jimny Gathering weekend – a multi-day celebration that has become something of a pilgrimage for Jimny owners and off-road enthusiasts – the Safari Town Festival is the grand public finale, open to all comers and guaranteed to deliver a proper dose of Karoo magic.
From small town to big stage
In case you missed it, the very first Suzuki Safari Town Festival took place in Clarens in 2023 as part of the Jimny Gathering. That weekend didn’t just bring together the Jimny faithful from across the country – it also saw South Africans set a brand-new Guinness World Record for the largest Suzuki Jimny convoy ever assembled. With more than 800 Jimnys snaking their way through the Free State countryside, it was an unforgettable moment in local motoring history.
This year, the spirit of adventure lives on. While the Jimny Gathering will once again treat Suzuki owners to four days of trails, mountain drives and 4×4 camaraderie in the nearby Outeniqua Mountains, the Saturday festival is where things shift into full-on celebration mode.
Expect a stellar line-up of live South African music, with performances from some of the country’s most beloved acts. Jeremy Loops, Spoegwolf, Karen Zoid and Early B are just a few of the names confirmed to hit the stage, with more still to be announced. And yes – comedian Schalk Bezuidenhout is back to MC the whole shebang, adding his usual offbeat flair to the festivities.
More than just music
Of course, no proper festival would be complete without the right food and drink to keep those dancing shoes fuelled. A wide variety of food stalls and craft bars will be on hand to cater for all tastes. Kids will also be kept well entertained in a dedicated play zone, giving parents the rare gift of a few uninterrupted songs.
There’ll be plenty of opportunities to meet your favourite artists, snap selfies, and soak in the easygoing atmosphere that seems to follow Suzuki events around like a loyal Labrador. It’s all about connection, community and celebrating a lifestyle built around freedom, fun and a healthy dash of quirkiness.
Everyone’s invited
While the Jimny Gathering itself is aimed at Suzuki 4×4 owners, the Safari Town Festival throws its arms wide open. Whether you drive a Swift, a Vitara or something entirely different, you’re more than welcome to pull in and enjoy the show. Even if you’re just a music lover looking for a jol in the Karoo, this is your golden ticket.
Oudtshoorn makes for a picturesque backdrop, with its wide-open spaces, friendly locals and a proud tradition of hospitality. Combine that with Suzuki’s knack for throwing a great party, and it’s not hard to see why so many people are already planning their long weekend escape.
Get your ticket and join the gees
Festival tickets start at just R60, with the top-tier option at R250 – a small price to pay for a full day of live entertainment, great food, good vibes and a generous dose of Karoo sunshine. All ticket info and bookings can be found at www.safaritown.co.za.
