The Standard Bank Luju Food & Lifestyle Festival is back and bolder than ever, set to unfold on 1–2 August 2025 at the scenic House On Fire estate in Eswatini. Known for its distinct blend of culinary excellence, Afrocentric fashion, and musical showcases, the Luju Festival has carved out a name for itself as one of Southern Africa’s most vibrant cultural celebrations. With a theme rooted in “A Return to the African Future,” the 2025 edition promises a two-day sensory journey that honours African heritage while embracing its dynamic future.
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Stages: Soundscapes of the Continent
Standard Bank Luju Main Stage
Set against Eswatini’s iconic cane fields and rolling hills, the Main Stage is the sonic heartbeat of the festival. It hosts an inspired mix of Afrocentric rhythms from headline acts across Eswatini, Southern Africa, and beyond, blending tradition with innovation in every beat.
Mastercard Stage
A feast for the eyes and the palate, the Mastercard Stage features live music, culinary performances, and the highly anticipated Mastercard Luju Fashion Show. Designers from across Eswatini, Lesotho, Mozambique, South Africa, Zambia, and Namibia bring regional flair to life with bold, wearable art.
The Buzz (by Explorers Craft Spirits)
New to this year’s lineup is The Buzz, a high-energy zone powered by Explorers Craft Spirits. Expect an amphitheatre pulsing with DJ sets, contemporary beats, and the irresistible aroma of smash burgers—clearly, not your average chill zone.
Festival Hives: Immersive Lifestyle Experiences
Beyond music, the Luju Festival is a playground of lifestyle “Hives”—curated spaces that cater to the senses.
Premium Lounge
Think champagne sophistication with an African twist. The Premium Lounge offers panoramic views, wine and charcuterie pairings, an à la carte menu, and full wait service. It’s supported by Malandela’s Restaurant, Malandeli Delicatessen, and the Cork & Co. wine club.
Heritage Food Garden
This hive celebrates the richness of African cuisine with traditional dishes prepared by local chefs using age-old methods and tools. Supported by Rhodes Food Group, it’s a space where nostalgia meets nourishment—like your grandmother’s Sunday table, only bigger.
Fashion Café
Art, fabric, and flair collide in this creative space curated by Dala Spaces. Featuring high-end fashion, indigenous beauty products, and artisanal creations, the Fashion Café is a love letter to African craftsmanship and entrepreneurial spirit.
Beer Garden
Supported by Stella Artois, this hive brings the best of beer culture with tastings, pairings, and even beer-infused culinary offerings. Yes, you read that right—beer cuisine. It’s where hops meet haute.
The Grapevine Wine Saloon
KWV powers this refined corner of the festival, where sommeliers guide guests through curated tastings and pairings. Whether you’re a casual sipper or a full-blown vino enthusiast, the Wine Saloon serves sophistication in every glass.
Corporate Bazaar
Get hands-on with interactive brand experiences, fun competitions, and games at the Corporate Bazaar. It’s both educational and entertaining, giving festivalgoers a chance to connect with the organisations behind the scenes.
The Beehive
A delightful space tailored for kids and families, The Beehive is the home of the Junior Cook-Off Competition. Children enjoy educational and fun activities that introduce them to healthy, flavourful food in engaging ways.
Ticket Prices (All Prices Converted to ZAR)
Ticket sales go live at 10 AM CAT on 24 April 2025, and early birds are encouraged to grab theirs fast—these sell out quickly.
Early Bird (Sold Out)
- Premium Lounge: R1,505
- Luju Gardens: R537
- Children (6–12): R107
Phase 1 (Selling Fast)
- Premium Lounge: R1,933
- Luju Gardens: R644
- Children (6–12): R161
Phase 2 (Upcoming)
- Premium Lounge: R2,416
- Luju Gardens: R805
- Children (6–12): R214
Children aged 5 and under enter for free.
Each ticket grants access to both days of the festival. Tickets come with unique QR barcodes—avoid sharing these or purchasing through unauthorized sellers to prevent fraud.
More Than a Festival—It’s a Cultural Movement
What makes Luju special isn’t just the impeccable programming or stylish settings—it’s the ethos. “A Return to the African Future” isn’t just a slogan; it’s a creative philosophy. By fusing vintage African aesthetics with futuristic expressions in music, food, and design, Luju honours where the continent has been—and dreams about where it’s going.
The Standard Bank Luju Food & Lifestyle Festival is proudly presented by House On Fire, with significant support from Standard Bank Eswatini. Whether you’re going for the music, the food, the fashion, or the family vibes, Luju is a chance to celebrate Africa in all its textured, tasteful glory.
Practical Info
- Festival Dates: 1–2 August 2025
- Location: House On Fire, Eswatini
- Ticket Sales Start: 24 April 2025 at 10 AM CAT
- General Queries: [email protected]
- Ticketing Support: [email protected]
