The DTSV Delicious International Food & Music Festival has once again proven why it is one of the premier cultural events on the African continent. Bringing together music, food, and heritage, this vibrant festival marks a significant intersection of tourism, local talent, and international appeal, showcasing the very best of what South Africa has to offer.
A Gathering of Icons in Entertainment and Tourism
Broadcast live from the heart of Gauteng, the festival is more than just an event—it’s a platform that elevates local and international artists, providing a space where culture and tourism thrive. In a recent interview on Gauteng Live by Barba Gaoganediwe, Head of Destination Marketing and Communications at Gauteng Tourism, co-founder Tom Pearson Adams reflected on the journey since the festival’s inception in 2013, alongside his partner Lloyd KL. “We started this festival with a vision,” Adams shared. “11 years ago, we set out to create something special, and today, we’ve grown into one of the most important events in Africa. It’s a true celebration of music, food, and community.”
Festival-goers braved chilly weather, but spirits remained high with Thandiswa Mazwai lighting up the main stage. With each artist bringing unique sounds, it was a testament to the event’s reputation for attracting top-tier talent. As Adams fondly recalled, “We’ve had unforgettable moments over the years—Jazzy B’s soulful set, Arrested Development performing in the rain, and Black Coffee delivering a world-class performance.”
Empowering Local Talent and SMEs
Beyond the music, the Delicious Festival has always had a strong focus on supporting local talent. The festival’s Proudly South African Delicious Mile featured over 100 SMEs, from food vendors to craft artisans, providing a platform for small businesses to showcase their products to an international audience. “We’ve always been committed to encouraging people to buy local, dress local, and celebrate local culture,” Adams explained. “It’s an honor to have such an impact, not just on our city, but on the broader creative economy.”
A Boost for Gauteng’s Visitor Economy
With the festival coinciding with Heritage Weekend, the Delicious International Food & Music Festival continues to attract visitors from across Africa and beyond. Attendees from Botswana, Zambia, Angola, Nigeria, and the U.S. have been part of the vibrant crowds, showcasing the event’s growing international reach. “Thanks to our partnership with DStv, we’ve been able to promote the festival across Africa, further boosting Gauteng’s visitor economy,” Adams noted. “Delicious is more than just a festival—it’s an invitation to experience the incredible hospitality, culture, and vibrancy of our province,” Barba mentioned that over 211 Caribbean American tourists attended the DStv Delicious Festival this year.
As the festival continues to expand, the future looks bright. With a growing global audience, new initiatives like the Trader Academy—which aims to upskill local traders and provide access to opportunities—are set to make a lasting impact on the local economy.
Catch the interview on Youtube
Pictures: supplied
