The 4th Annual Matatiele Food Festival, hosted by Exploring with Makhoza and managed by Zimasa Ndaba, took place on June 16, 2024, under the fitting theme “The Taste of Matatiele.” Starting at 10 a.m., the festival provided the perfect reason for the community to come together and celebrate the Youth Day public holiday.
The festival exceeded expectations once again, drawing people from all wards of Matatiele and surrounding towns within the district. The event featured a wide array of food stalls offering a delectable variety of dishes that awakened the taste buds of attendees. From Boerewors rolls and Kota to beef and chicken stew, as well as seafood, there was something to satisfy every palate.
Local DJs, including DJ Mart SA, Ocean, Lwazi Da DJ, Aypee, Psyc EL, and KG, ensured that the atmosphere was vibrant and entertaining throughout the day. A dedicated kids’ corner, complete with jumping castles, a sip n’ print experience, and sweet treats, kept the children delighted while their parents enjoyed the festival.
The Matatiele Food Festival has quickly become one of the most popular family events in the area, with attendance numbers steadily increasing each year. This year’s event was made possible by the support of the Matatiele Local Municipality and various local businesses, including Ubile Security, Bellz Decor & Hire, and Drakensberg Signage. The festival was also marketed by The Informer Digital TV, Botle Communications, Nzo FM, and Pondoland Times.
The growing success of the festival highlights the burgeoning tourism industry in Matatiele and the surrounding region. One of the festival’s primary goals is to promote Matatiele as a premier tourist destination, while also providing an economic boost to local accommodation businesses.
Overall, the 4th Annual Matatiele Food Festival was a resounding success, bringing the community together and showcasing the rich culinary traditions of the area. As the festival continues to grow, it promises to remain a key event on the local calendar, promoting tourism and economic growth in Matatiele for years to come.
