The Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport (DCAS) invites residents of George and surrounding areas, and holiday makers to join an exciting four-day celebration of community, creativity, and connection at the inaugural George Festival, taking place from 13 to 16 December 2025. Festivals like this create jobs and pump millions of rand into local economies, supporting families from across the region.
This first-of-its-kind event in George brings together sport, music, art, and heritage, creating a shared platform where families, youth, and visitors can experience the joy and unity that define the Western Cape.
Western Cape Provincial Minister of Cultural Affairs and Sport, Ricardo Mackenzie, said the festival reflects the Department’s vision to make culture and sport accessible to all by ensuring that all regions of the Western Cape have regional festivals which in turn contribute to economic growth in the region and support for cultural producers.
“We are bringing art, music, culture, and sport together in a way George has never seen before. This festival is a proper celebration of who we are, vibrant, diverse, and full of spirit. From live performances and markets to 5-a-side soccer, Indigenous Games, and family activities, there is something for everyone,” said Minister Mackenzie.
Most activities are free of charge, ensuring that all members of the community can participate.
Festival Highlights
Family
- Kiddies Fun Zone: 15 December, 10:00–14:00
- Outeniqua Christmas Market: 6–20 December
- Annual Lights Festival: 13 December, 14:00–22:00, Unity Park, York Street (Free)
Arts & Heritage
- Alice in Wonderland – George Arts Theatre, York Street (R120–R150 pp)
- Eden/Karoo Museum Exhibition: 13–15 December, George Museum, Courtenay Street (Free)
Music
- Live Music and Performances: 16 December, 09:00–19:00, Unity Park (Free)
- Summer Jazz Festival: 16 December, 12:00–19:00, Kaptein Dikkop Amphitheatre, Pacaltsdorp (Free)
Sport
- 5-a-side Soccer and Indigenous Games: 13–14 December, Thembalethu Cruyff Facility, Zone 9 (Free)
- Parkrun: 13 December, 08:00, Garden Route Botanical Garden (Free)
- 7’s Rugby and Netball Tournament: 13–14 December, Pacaltsdorp Sports Field (Free)
- Lawn Bowls for the Blind: 15 December, 09:00–18:00, George Bowling Club (Free)
Building Opportunity and Hope
Minister Mackenzie expressed gratitude to the festival’s partners for their contribution to this shared vision.
“I want to thank our strategic partners – George Municipality, SportPesa, Heineken, MTN, and Knox – as well as the Eden Sports Council and Garden Route District Municipality for believing in this vision. Together, we are creating opportunities and inspiring hope that will last far beyond the festival dates.”
“The George Festival is more than an event; it’s a platform for inclusion, pride, and possibility. It brings sport and culture to the people, right on their doorstep.”
