This year, the Vrystaat Arts Festival, one of South Africa’s premier cultural events, celebrates its 25th anniversary with a vibrant programme that promises something for everyone.

Taking place from 14 to 19 July on the University of the Free State’s (UFS) Bloemfontein campus, the festival is gearing up for one of its biggest and most diverse editions yet. Festival Director Michael Garbett describes the milestone as a testament to the event’s continued growth and relevance. 

“It’s a quarter of a century of building a platform where the Free State, South Africa, and the world can come together to experience bold, beautiful, and boundary-breaking art. Every year tells its own story, and this one is about community, access, and transformation.”

Powerful programme

This year’s festival opens with a bang: Karen Zoid and her full band will kick things off on 14 July at the Creative Kilowatt Kopanong Auditorium. 

“It’s going to be a phenomenal experience. Tickets are already 60% sold out, so this is one not to miss.”

Other standout performances include: Speelgoed van Glas and Marion Monroe for theatre lovers; married couple Cintaine Schutte and Carel Nel get to play complete strangers in ’n Begin, and Wilhelm van der Walt delivers a powerful one-man show, Seun.

‘Craft workshops, literature festival, and arts market’

The King of Broken Things, a children’s play that Garbett describes as “one of the most beautiful stories I’ve ever seen”; highly recommended even for adults.

Beyond the stage, the festival also includes: The Mebala craft workshops, a jam-packed visual arts offering, a literature festival featuring acclaimed writers and challenging conversations, a bustling arts market, and free public installations.

More than a festival

Despite Bloemfontein’s midwinter chill, Garbett says the festival exudes a warm, communal energy. “People think of the cold, but once you’re here, it’s like sitting around the same fireplace with strangers who become companions, sharing shows, exhibitions, even coffee.”

With all events within walking distance on the university campus, the layout is designed for ease, connection, and spontaneous discovery. “You might bump into an artist while grabbing brunch or overhear a heated discussion about a play that sold out the day before.”

Tickets are available via webtickets, the festival’s website, their Preller Square festival office, and at the Odeion ticket office on the Bloemfontein campus of the UFS.

The 2025 Vrystaat Arts Festival is proudly supported by OFM, the official media partner. One festival, many stories. Be part of the journey from 14 to 19 July in Bloemfontein.

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