The South African music scene is abuzz with pride as Ultra South Africa has been named the only African festival in DJ Mag’s Top 100 Festivals of 2025, securing the 95th spot. This prestigious recognition, announced on June 22, 2025, underscores the festival’s growing influence in the global electronic music landscape and highlights the vibrancy of South Africa’s electronic dance music (EDM) community.
Ultra South Africa, held annually in Cape Town and Johannesburg, has become a cornerstone event for EDM enthusiasts, drawing thousands of fans and featuring world-class DJs alongside local talent. The 2025 edition, which marked its return after a brief hiatus during the COVID-19 pandemic, saw record-breaking attendance and global votes in DJ Mag’s public poll, which has been running since 2022. According to the IMS Business Report 2025, electronic music’s presence at global festivals has risen to 18% of line-ups, up from 13% in 2021, reflecting the genre’s surging popularity—a trend Ultra South Africa has capitalized on by showcasing both international stars and homegrown artists like Black Coffee and DJ Shimza.
The festival’s inclusion in the DJ Mag list is a testament to its organizational excellence and cultural impact. Organizers have emphasized their commitment to elevating South African talent, with 2025’s line-up featuring emerging acts like Thukuthela and Jazzworx, who have been making waves in the local house music scene. “This recognition is not just for Ultra but for the entire South African music community,” said festival director Shaun Duvet in a statement to Beats of Africa. “We’re proud to platform our artists on a global stage.” The event also contributed significantly to local economies, with Cape Town’s tourism board reporting a 12% increase in visitor spending during the festival weekend.
Beyond its musical offerings, Ultra South Africa 2025 prioritized sustainability, implementing eco-friendly initiatives like biodegradable stage materials and waste reduction programs, aligning with global festival trends toward environmental responsibility. Fans on X have praised the festival’s vibrant energy, with posts highlighting the “electric atmosphere” and “unforgettable performances” that blend global EDM trends with South African flair, such as amapiano and gqom influences.
This milestone reinforces South Africa’s position as a hub for electronic music innovation. As the festival prepares for its 2026 edition, organizers are already teasing an even bigger line-up, with rumors of collaborations with international festivals like Tomorrowland. For South African musicians, Ultra South Africa remains a vital platform for exposure, bridging local talent with global audiences and cementing the country’s role in the international EDM scene.
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