Few things unite South Africans like the crackle of a fire and the promise of a braai – it’s more than a meal, it’s culture, connection, and celebration.
And now, the biggest braai festival in the country is back to honour that passion. The Ultimate Braai Festival 2025, the brainchild of comedian-turned-chef Chris Forrest, will once again bring the nation together around the fire on 4 and 5 October 2025 at the Fire & Wine Venue in Zwavelpoort, just outside Pretoria.
What started as Forrest’s idea to combine laughter, food, and fire has grown into a two-day spectacular — where hundreds of people gather for sizzling competitions, celebrity chefs, live comedy, big-screen rugby, and a music line-up as hot as the coals themselves.
Proudly brought to you by Cooking on Coals and Buz Hive Events, this year’s festival promises to be bigger, bolder, and hotter than ever before.
A Line-up That Brings the Heat
This year’s flames are stoked by culinary legends:
- Chef Benny Masekwameng (MasterChef SA, Ultimate Braai Master): From Alexandra to international acclaim, Benny’s story is one of grit, skill, and South African flavour.
- Suzie Wandrag (Women Fire Food): Smoking champion, Kyknet Kokkedoor contestant, and award-winning hot sauce creator.
- And of course, Chris Forrest himself — not only one of South Africa’s top comedians but also a qualified chef, who keeps crowds entertained with food demos that are as funny as they are delicious.
Comedy Served Hot
The laughs will be as fiery as the braai pits, with:
- David Kau – The trailblazer who broke barriers at the Smirnoff International Comedy Festival.
- Nick Goliath – Relatable, warm, and irresistibly funny.
- Richelieu Beaunoir – Known for his sharp wit and food culture flair.
- Dave Levinsohn aka The Festival Fairy – The mischievous MC sprinkling fun across the weekend.
Music, Rugby & Braai Magic
The festival soundtrack will keep the fire burning with a full line-up of live acts:
Saturday (10h00 – 22h00)
- Jasper Dan
- Droomsindroom
- Ross Learmonth
- Loufi
- Big Screen Rugby: SA vs ARG
Sunday (10h00 – 17h00)
- Jody Mayhew
- Lungelo
The Ultimate Braai Festival 2025’s Highlights
- DIY Braai Area – Pick your cut from the on-site butcher, spice it up with Crown National, and cook it yourself (or call in a braai master).
- Ultimate Braai Competition – Thrilling knockout rounds, signature dishes, and a mystery box finale. Entry: R600 per team (includes 2 VIP tickets).
- Braai Expo – From custom smokers to sauces, gadgets, and spices.
- Food Vendors – Halaal grills, donuts, ice cream, sauces, biltong, and more.
- Hot Zones – Kids’ Area, Music Stage, Beer Tent, Craft Beer & Wine Route, Food Trucks, Demos, and the Booze Barn.
Ticket Information
Saturday 4 October
- Adults R220 | Students R150 | Kids (5–12) R50 | Under 4 Free
- Family R445 | Early Bird R180 | Bulk (10+) R195
- VIP R400 | Judging R1500 (max 12)
Sunday 5 October
- Adults R150 | Students R80 | Kids (5–12) R50 | Under 4 Free
- Family R350 | Early Bird R110 | Bulk (10+) R120
- VIP R300 | Judging R1500 (max 6)
VIP tickets include: Goodie bag, wine glass, VIP parking, VIP bar access.
Judging tickets include: VIP perks plus hat, beverages and exclusive tastings.
Group discounts (10% off) are available to rugby clubs, schools, and groups of 10+.
Proud Partners
The Ultimate Braai Festival is proudly supported by: Builders Warehouse, Farmer’s Weekly, Pretoria FM, The Citizen, Crown National, Cooking on Coals, The Buz Hive, Fire & Spice, Outback, Epa! Fresh Sauces, Daddy’s Fudge, Delagoa Bay Butter Sauce Co., Big George Custom Smokers, Real Men Braai with Wood, Sani-touch, and many more.
Event Details
Venue: Fire & Wine Venue, R631, Plot 43, Zwavelpoort
Dates:
- Saturday 4 October – 10h00 to 22h00
- Sunday 5 October – 10h00 to 18h00
Bring camping chairs and picnic blankets.
Please note: no outside food, drinks, or pets allowed. Parking pre-booking is essential.
From the very first spark to the final flame, The Ultimate Braai Festival 2025 is South Africa’s biggest celebration of food, fire, and fun. Whether you’re coming for the chefs, the comedy, the rugby, or simply the sizzle, this is one weekend guaranteed to be well done.
Tickets are selling fast – book now on Quicket and be part of South Africa’s biggest braai celebration.
Watch this space for updates in the Events category on Running Wolf’s Rant.
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