The event took place at the Emerald Resort & Casino, where participants attempted to set a Guinness World Record for the most pancakes made and served.

Organisers planned two record attempts for the festival. The pancake project was completed by volunteers, while a second project involving Chilli Con Carne was cancelled because of technical requirements. To avoid waste, all ingredients were given to people at the event on that day.

Big success

“This is undoubtedly one of the biggest successes we’ve seen at Rocking the Vaal,” said marketing manager of Emerald Resort & Casino Marinda Human.

The pancake production required 3,700 eggs and various other ingredients. These supplies were managed through coordination between festival organisers, sponsors, and volunteers.

The festival worked together with Rotary International to distribute the food and resources. 

The items from the event will be sent to charitable programmes that serve approximately 25,000 people in need. This distribution is part of the festival’s focus on local community support.

Festivalgoers enjoyed every moment. Photo: Rocking the Vaal

Event features

• Music performances by South African artists such as Kurt Darren and Die Heuwels Fantasties;
• Food stalls and activities for families; and
• Access to the resort’s water park and outdoor area.

History 

Jaco Verwey started the festival with help from the Golden Triangle Chamber of Commerce and Tsogo Sun. It began as a community vision and has grown into an annual event.

Following the 2026 festival, organisers said they are planning for future editions. This includes the possibility of trying the Chilli Con Carne project again. They intend to continue growing the event and its partnership with local charities.

OFM News/Refilwe Bekane dg

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