The festival is one of South Africa’s leading multidisciplinary arts events, bringing together established and emerging artists, musicians, actors, writers, filmmakers and entrepreneurs. Hosted at the University of the Free State, the five-day festival features performances, exhibitions, discussions and markets. This year’s festival ends Saturday (11/7).

For food entrepreneur Joseph Philippus Kok, the festival has become an important platform to share his popular dishes with festivalgoers. Kok said the support from visitors continues to encourage them to return each year.

“For the last eight years, we have been making lamb potjies, pap and salads. I think people enjoy it so much because they keep coming back.” The festival plays an important role in supporting local businesses by creating opportunities for entrepreneurs to grow their customer base and contribute to the local economy.

“This event is good for us because it allows us to return every year and build a relationship with customers who have become familiar with our products. It also allows us to reach new customers who get to experience and enjoy our potjies,” he said.

The combination of quality cuisine and great music plays an important role in attracting visitors, promoting the event and helping it gain national recognition.

The festival also provides a platform for artists to showcase their creativity. One of the exhibitors, Wycliff Chirwa, originally from the Eastern Cape, has built a business in Bloemfontein selling handcrafted woven baskets, traditional household items and wooden decorative carvings inspired by African heritage.

Wycliff Chirwa, artist at the Vrystaat Arts Festival. Photo: Siyakholwa Mbatyazwa

The festival is more than just a place to sell his products. It allows him to introduce his craft to new audiences, connect with other creatives and draw inspiration from their work.

He believes events like the Vrystaat Arts Festival show artists can build sustainable careers through dedication and creativity. “I have managed to build something for myself through my craft.” 

“Being able to make a living from something I love is a blessing, and not many people get that opportunity.”

For entrepreneurs and artists, it represents more than entertainment; it is a space where creativity becomes opportunity and where local talent can grow into sustainable businesses.

OFM News/Siyakholwa Mbatyazwa dg

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