The all-day family festival will serve up kasi kota creations alongside performances from some of South Africa’s best-known artists.

The Tembisa Kota Festival returns to Esselen Park on Saturday, 7 November 2026, bringing kota vendors, live entertainment and family activities to the Transnet School of Rail.

Vendors from Tembisa and elsewhere in Gauteng are expected to offer their own versions of the kota, from familiar combinations to more elaborate creations. 

The announced entertainment line-up includes Sjava, DJ Maphorisa, Big Zulu, Ringo Madlingozi, Amanda Black, Kelvin Momo, Elaine, Mlindo the Vocalist, Emtee, Aymos and several other performers. Somizi Mhlongo and Napo Modise are listed as the event’s MCs. 

The event also plans a dedicated children’s area with activities such as jumping castles, giant slides, rides, and rock climbing. The event is listed as suitable for all ages. 

Before You Go

• Tickets: From R110 through Webtickets
• Parking: R50
• Payment: The event is cashless, so bring a bank card
• Seating: Camp chairs are permitted
• Cooler boxes: Only empty cooler boxes are permitted in the general area; none are allowed in the VIP section
• Food and drinks: Outside food, drinks and water may not be brought into the venue
• Pass-outs: No re-entry after 7 pm
• Bookings: Webtickets or Computicket

Event conditions and ticket availability can change, so check the booking platform or the Kota Festival website before travelling. allevents.in

The Bottom Line

This is more than a quick lunch stop. The 12-hour programme combines township food businesses, major music acts and children’s entertainment in one family-oriented day out.

Book before arriving, bring a card and a camp chair, and leave the filled cooler box at home.