Pretoria Zoo Maskandi Picnic brings bhinca culture to Tshwane

Recognised by streaming platforms as one of the fastest-growing genres in the country, maskandi has transcended geographical and language barriers. On Saturday 31 October, residents of this city will convene at the National Zoological Gardens for the inaugural Pretoria Zoo Maskandi Picnic.

Gone are the days when maskandi was perceived as a genre consumed strictly in rural KwaZulu-Natal. 

Today the genre is consumed by music lovers across the country and its intergenerational appeal’s tentacles also touch Gen Zs, as Spotify stats have revealed that young people under 35 account for nearly 50% of its maskandi consumption. This weekend’s event is a reminder that the vibrancy of South African culture is a thread that connects the people of Mzansi no matter where they are in the country.

Musically, Pretoria is synonymous with bacardi and Pitori rap, and in the 1980s it was mostly known for Afrikaans alternative rock. 

But this Saturday, Pretoria will be immersed in the traditional rhythms of Feza, Mthandeni SK, Limit Nala and other artists, accompanied by the acoustic guitars and concertinas that are part of maskandi’s DNA.

The city’s cultural fashion includes high-end Italian sportswear and localised luxury streetwear. The Maskandi picnic is expected to attract bhinca culture to the city where traditional Zulu heritage meets high-end dandy brands of mostly European origin.

The picnic highlights how intentional South Africans are becoming about inclusivity. It is a celebration offering music, culture and outdoor fun against the backdrop of nature for all the guests. The scenic venue makes for more than just a few Instagrammable moments, so family and friends in their most colourful bhinca outfits will also be able to capture these memories.

Guests can bring camping chairs, picnic baskets, blankets and gazebos. Cooler boxes are allowed in for R150 at the gate, however only cans are permitted.

• Pretoria Zoo Maskandi Picnic

• National Zoological Gardens

• Saturday 31 October from 10:00 AM

• Tickets from R150 on Webtickets