Local vendors have been given the opportunity to apply for trading at the fifth edition of Makoti Festival.
Trader applications for vendors opened on Monday, January 19, 2026 and will close on March 15, 2026. This was confirmed by Festival Director Thembinkosi Mthethwa.
Mthethwa said all interested vendors can apply. “All my hustlers this is your chance to make money as stalls applications are now open at Makoti Festival,” he said.
The festival director further explained that they are looking forward to hosting different stalls at the festival.
He clarified that some stalls will be free depending on what they will be selling but more details are on the website.
The different stalls that will be allowed at the festival include food and drinks, alcohol, accessories, artwork, craft and children’s games.
Mthethwa went on to say that corporate stalls, however, should contact them directly via email or via their website.
A few days ago, the festival organisers also revealed that artists have been given the opportunity to perform at the prestigious Makoti Festival through applications which are already open, offering a platform for both rising stars and seasoned performers to showcase their craft.
Mthethwa confirmed that the event remains a legacy-building stage dedicated to championing artistry, empowerment and connection.
Aspiring performers can submit their applications through the official website which they can access through the festivals social media pages.
The Makoti Festival returns for its landmark fifth edition on April 25, 2026 at the Malkerns Country Club.
More than just a concert, the festival is a vibrant, day-long odyssey of live music, fashion and cultural exchange designed to celebrate the creative brilliance and global spirit of Southern Africa.
Makoti Festival returns for the fifth edition on April 25, 2026 at the Malkerns Country Club.
The festival is a full day of live music, fashion and cultural exchange that celebrates Southern Africa’s creative brilliance and global spirit. The cultural celebration is presented by NewLife Entertainment and Illa PenBoy Foundation.
As the build up to the festival intensifies, fans should expect a series of exciting announcements in the coming weeks, including the reveal of artists, DJs and special guests who will headline the 2026 edition.
The fourth edition of the Makoti Festival was successfully held on April 26, 2025, also at the Malkerns Country Club headlined by local and international acts.
The event brought together local artists as well as DJs and outside talent from four countries: South Africa, Lesotho, Botswana and Mozambique.
Since its inception in April 2022, the Makoti Festival has grown into one of the region’s most anticipated festivals.
The 2026 Makoti Festival continues its mission as a family-oriented cultural celebration rooted in Eswatini traditions.
The festival honours women, married, unmarried and young girls preparing for their future roles as makotis.
Makoti Festival Director, Thembinkosi Mthethwa.(Courtesy pics)