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Back to the City Festival

The annual Hennessy Back To The City Festival presents artists representing the pinnacle of artistic expression from South Africa and abroad.

This unique annual youth event has grown into the largest public display of both commercial and underground Hip Hop in Africa, presenting a day of live music, street art, break-dancing, art installation, skateboarding, film, street fashion, gaming, speakers and panel discussions. The festival features 80 stalls, 100 artists, and more.

From the daytime events to the evening performances, this is a place where the inner city comes alive with true freedom of expression, providing a destination for hip hop fans, artists and industry related individuals alike.

The 2025 instalment is headlined by Grammy Award-Winning American rapper, Lupe Fiasco with support from local acts Cassper Nyovest, A Reece, Big Zulu, Emtee, Maglera Doe Boy, Brother Kupa, Mfana Touchline, 25k, Loatinover Pounds, and more. Plus, the Heritage Moment Legends Celebration honours M'du and Tuks.


Date: 11 October 2025

Time: From 12pm

Price: R200 - R500pp (general access) | R1500 - R2500 (VIP) | R10000 - R30000 (VIP Tables)


Venue address: Mary FitzGerald Square, 120 Lilian Ngoyi St, Newtown, Johannesburg

View map

Wheelchair accessibility: Unknown


Website: https://www.backtothecityfestival.com/

Email: [email protected]

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/backtothecityfestival/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Backtothecityfestival/