From DJ Que’s Ghost World to Vans’ House of Vans, and Monkey Shoulder’s activation at Kunye, these events offered something truly special. We’re also spotlighting Friends of Amstel, Glenfiddich’s Grand Château Experience, and “Mr Somatekisi Live in Concert” with Benny, as well as Stella Artois’ Let’s Do Dinner, where food, culture, and conversation come together. Each event provided a unique chance to connect, celebrate, and enjoy.

QUE DJ’S “GHOST WORLD”

Carfax came alive on October 31st as QUE DJ’s Ghost World Halloween, in partnership with MTV Base and Johnnie Walker Blonde, turned the iconic venue into a supernatural playground. The newly minted annual celebration delivered a spellbinding night of electrifying performances from an impressive lineup of local and international DJs, including Yasuka Som Systema, KMat, DBN Gogo, and Slow Poison. Attendees danced into the early hours, surrounded by haunting beats and a vibrant display of creativity that merged Halloween’s eerie allure with unstoppable musical energy. With its perfect fusion of spooky aesthetics, star-studded appearances, and unforgettable music, Ghost World has staked its claim as a Halloween tradition not to be missed.

VAN’S “HOUSE OF VANS”

Juta Street came alive from November 1-3 as House of Vans transformed Johannesburg into a high-energy celebration of art, music, and skateboarding. Headlined by Little Simz, the event featured local talents like Muzi, K.Keed, and lordkez, along with skate showcases from the Vans South Skate Team and European riders. Attendees also enjoyed interactive workshops, art exhibitions by local creators, and custom T-shirt printing sessions. The event’s pop-up shop offered exclusive gear from brands like Milk Eyewear and Shelflife, embodying the spirit of skate culture. Vans South Africa’s Warren Talbot reflected, “It’s about the community—this weekend truly showcased Johannesburg’s creativity and energy.”

KUNYE X MONKEY SHOULDER

Monkey Shoulder’s Brushstroke Battle wrapped up on November 2, 2024, at Kunye, a lively music festival in Johannesburg. The event brought together street art, fashion, and music, all in line with the brand’s fun and creative vibe. Guests enjoyed a VIP experience with special Monkey Shoulder drinks, including the popular “Ginger Perfect Serve.” The event also celebrated the brand’s ambassadors Shamiso Mosaka and Thabang Mazibuko. The highlight was the unveiling of a mural by graffiti artist George Mars, who perfectly matched Monkey Shoulder’s bold style. There was also an interactive AI street art installation where guests could see themselves turned into graffiti art. With this event, Monkey Shoulder continues to celebrate creativity and looks forward to even more exciting events in 2025.

AMSTEL’S “FRIENDS OF AMSTEL”

The 2024 Friends of Amstel celebration wrapped up with a bang on November 9th at Ground, The Venue, featuring electrifying performances from Major League, Zee Nxumalo, Scorpion Kings, and more on the Main Stage, while Lee McKrazy and Maglera Doe Boy lit up the Amstel Radler stage. Festivalgoers also enjoyed Amstel Radler, a new slow-brewed lager with real lemon juice, perfect for summer. The finale coincided with the last episode of Friends of Amstel: The Challenge on eTV, which showcased South Africa’s best talent. “This season exceeded our expectations, combining great music, friendship, and beer,” said Alicia Reddy, Senior Brand Manager at Amstel.

Take a look at the experience from #LAMag’s Coco Brown’s eyes:

GLENFIDDICH’S “GRAND CHÂTEAU EXPERIENCE”

Glenfiddich’s Grand Château Experience, held at the Four Seasons Hotel in Johannesburg, was a stunning three-day celebration of heritage, art, and luxury, marking the release of the limited 31-Year-Old Grand Château whisky. The event featured an exclusive fine-dining experience curated by Chef Katlego Mlambo, blending French fusion cuisine with Glenfiddich’s Scottish roots. Guests were immersed in an elegant atmosphere designed by André Saraiva, with whimsical details and nods to the whisky’s legacy. The evening included a five-course meal paired with Glenfiddich whiskies, alongside signature cocktails and a memorable dessert, all set against breathtaking views of Johannesburg. The event epitomized Glenfiddich’s commitment to luxury, heritage, and modern sophistication, offering an unforgettable experience for those fortunate enough to attend.

BIG ZULU X BENNY

Mzansi’s #1 stock powder brand, BENNY, partnered with Big Zulu for his “Mr Somatekisi Live in Concert” cultural launch on November 10, 2024, at Kwa Mai Mai Shisanyama in Johannesburg. Rooted in both modern and traditional sounds, Big Zulu aims to bring communities closer to Mzansi’s festive heritage, and BENNY is proud to be the flava partner. The partnership further invites attendees to experience the richness of local tradition through activations that will continue to take place in taxi ranks, markets, and informal traders, where commuters could sample BENNY’s offerings and win merchandise and concert tickets. “We’re excited to partner with Big Zulu, and celebrate our local cuisine in a way that resonates deeply with the people we serve,” says Phumelele Bohlela, Marketing Manager: BENNY. “Our brand isn’t just about taste; it’s about flavour and community. We know that our stock powder and stock cubes make each meal special, and with Big Zulu’s influence, we’re building a unique culinary journey rooted in Mzansi’s local sounds and tastes.”

STELLA ARTOIS’ “LET’S DO DINNER”

Nomzamo Mbatha and Thapelo Mokoena hosted an unforgettable evening at “Let’s Do Dinner,” presented by Stella Artois, in Johannesburg. Centered around the theme “If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be?”, the event brought together South Africa’s most fascinating personalities across industries, including award-winning artist Karabo Poppy, comedian Donovan Goliath, media figure Lasizwe, and actress Manaka Ranaka, among others. The night featured captivating performances, including spoken word by Puno The Poet, soulful music from Ami Faku and Bongeziwe Mabandla, and captivating DJ sets. Set at the stunning 92 Rivonia venue in Sandton, the event was a celebration of South Africa’s vibrant culture and creative spirit, bringing people together through art, music, and food.

Take a look at the experience from #LAMag’s Nyiko Chauke and Phumzile Sigonyela’s eyes:

Featured & Gallery Images : Supplied