Eswatini Kota Festival postponed to September 2026 amid low ticket sales

The much-anticipated Eswatini Kota Festival, a vibrant celebration of local cuisine and culture, has been officially postponed to next year.

The announcement was made by the Kota Festival Organising Committee, citing lower-than-expected ticket sales as the primary reason for the rescheduling.

Originally slated to take place on Saturday, September 27, 2025, at Malkerns Country Club, the festival has now been moved to Friday, September 26, 2026.

This decision, though difficult, reflects the organisers’ commitment to delivering an event that lives up to the high expectations of attendees, vendors, and partners alike.

In an official statement, the committee expressed sincere regret over the postponement, emphasising that the move was necessary to ensure the festival’s success and sustainability.

“After careful consideration and in light of lower-than-anticipated ticket sales, we have made the difficult decision to reschedule the event to next year,” the statement read.

The Eswatini Kota Festival has grown in popularity over the years, becoming a key fixture on the country’s cultural calendar. It celebrates the beloved ‘kota,’ a local street food delicacy, alongside music, arts, and community engagement.

The festival not only promotes local flavours but also serves as a platform for small businesses and artisans to showcase their talents and products.

The organisers highlighted that postponing the festival will provide them with the necessary time to enhance the event’s offerings, increase public engagement, and ultimately deliver a more memorable experience.

“As organisers, we remain committed to delivering an event that meets the highest standards and provides a memorable experience for all attendees, vendors, and partners.

Postponing the festival will allow us the necessary time to improve our offering, increase engagement, and ensure the event reaches its full potential,” the statement added.

Supporters of the festival have been assured that all tickets already purchased will remain valid for the new date in 2026, minimising inconvenience for those who had planned to attend.

The committee also extended heartfelt thanks to everyone who has supported the festival thus far, acknowledging the community’s enthusiasm and anticipation.