Seen from left are: Artist Vusi Nova, Nomonde Kesiamang, Executive Director at Sol Plaatje Municipality, Councilor Sonia Mogorosi-Bosman, Member of Mayoral Committee responsible for Local Economic Development, Thapelo Matlala, Sol Plaatje Municipal Manager, Executive Mayor for Sol Plaatje Municipality, Martha Barrett, and artist Jonathan Butler.
Image: Danie van der Lith
KIMBERLEY is preparing for the highly anticipated return of the 2025 Diamonds & Dorings Festival, an event that has long been a staple in the Northern Cape’s cultural calendar. This year’s edition, set for April 20, is poised to redefine the festival experience, blending luxury, music, and a celebration of Kimberley’s rich heritage in a way never seen before.
For years, Diamonds & Dorings has been the crown jewel of Kimberley’s entertainment landscape, bringing together top local and international artists in an electrifying fusion of sound and culture. However, past controversies and challenges have tainted its reputation. Determined to reclaim its former glory, the event organisers have promised that the 2025 festival will be an immersive and unforgettable experience.
Under the management of Exilite Holdings, the festival will integrate high-end entertainment with luxury partnerships and VIP hospitality. The revamped concept includes new attractions designed to enhance the attendee experience, such as a whisky tasting and wine pairing experience, a thrilling diamond hunt, and cultural exhibitions that highlight Kimberley’s deep historical roots.
The festival’s logo for 2025 incorporates diamond elements, symbolising the Northern Cape’s mining heritage, strength, and prestige. The event’s primary brand colour this year is blue—a choice that organisers say evokes trust, unity, and sophistication, aligning perfectly with their vision for the festival’s rebirth.
“We are committed to making Diamonds & Dorings 2025 a world-class experience,” said the event organisers. “This will not just be a music festival; it will be an experience that embodies excellence and economic growth for our community.”
The festival’s impact extends beyond entertainment. Speaking at the media launch, the mayor of Sol Plaatje Municipality, Martha Bartlett, emphasized the festival’s significance as a cornerstone of local tourism and economic development.
Sol Plaatje Municipality Executive Mayor, Martha Bartlett.
Image: Danie van der Lith
“The Diamonds & Dorings music festival has evolved into more than just a music event; it is an impressive experience that showcases the very best of Kimberley’s vibrancy, talent, and economic potential,” the mayor stated.
She highlighted the influx of visitors, increased business for local establishments, and job opportunities created during the festival. Hotels, guesthouses, restaurants, shopping centres, and local attractions all benefit from the thousands of festival-goers who descend upon Kimberley each year. Small businesses, vendors, and entrepreneurs also receive significant exposure and economic opportunities.
The festival organisers have pledged to prioritise local artists, ensuring that the lineup includes a strong representation of Northern Cape talent.
“We are committed to increasing the number of local artists on the lineup and providing them with a platform to showcase their skills alongside national and international acts,” said the Bartlett.
Additionally, Diamonds & Dorings will generate employment in areas such as event management, hospitality, security, and logistics, equipping many young people with essential skills and financial opportunities.
The 2025 festival boasts an electrifying musical lineup featuring some of South Africa’s most celebrated artists. Music lovers can look forward to performances by legendary jazz guitarist Jonathan Butler, soulful sensation Zonke, the iconic duo Mafikizolo, and the harmonious group Encore. Fans of R&B and Afro-pop will be treated to mesmerising performances by Vusi Nova, Nathi, Amanda Black, and the renowned jazz artist Bhudaza. Additionally, the event will host the dynamic Shekinah, as well as top-tier DJs like DJ Scott and KG Smallz, who will keep the crowd on their feet. The Northern Cape Symphony Youth Orchestra will also grace the stage, adding a touch of classical elegance to the festival.
Jazz guitarist, Jonathan Butler.
Image: Danie van der Lith
Guiding the audience through the festival’s high-energy performances will be none other than Somizi, Bisi, and Kelly, who will serve as the Masters of Ceremony, ensuring an unforgettable experience filled with charisma and entertainment.
Artist, Vusi Nova.
Image: Danie van der Lith
Adding even more excitement, the festival will feature talented artists and DJs, including SMS, Deekamo, New Halo, Empire, D-Tone, Zombie SA, Booker T, DJ Spanky, SKM, and DJ Sacs, promising a diverse and immersive musical journey for all attendees.
Mangaliso Matika, the MEC for Sports, Arts, and Culture, reinforced the provincial government’s commitment to the festival, acknowledging its past challenges but expressing optimism about its future.
MEC for Sports, Arts and Culture, Mangaliso Matika
Image: Danie van der Lith
“We had to do serious work behind the scenes to revive the brand. Now that we have restored its credibility, we are handing it back to the municipality to ensure it thrives as a community-driven event,” said Matika.
He also reassured local artists that they would be prioritised and paid fairly, vowing to work alongside the municipality to prevent past grievances from recurring.
Matika concluded with a bold vision: “This Diamonds & Dorings should not be owned by the government or the municipality; it should belong to the people of Kimberley. Our dream is to grow this festival to a point where it surpasses events like the Macufe Festival.”
With its renewed commitment to excellence, inclusivity, and community impact, Diamonds & Dorings 2025 is set to usher in a new era for Kimberley’s premier lifestyle and music festival.
As April 20 draws closer, excitement is building, and the people of Kimberley are ready to reclaim their festival. This is more than just an event—it is a celebration of heritage, resilience, and the unbreakable spirit of the Northern Cape.