The Castle Lager Braai Festival, one of Zimbabwe’s most beloved social events, marked its 10th anniversary on Saturday, October 18, 2025, with an unforgettable celebration that turned Glamis Arena into a sea of smoke, sound and celebration.
By midday, the aroma of grilled meat and the buzz of conversation had filled the air as thousands poured into the venue.
By nightfall, the atmosphere had transformed into something electric, queues snaked outside the gates, and inside, as the crowd caught a glimpse of live performances from some of Zimbabwe’s biggest stars.
Headlined by Winky D, the festival’s powerhouse lineup included Ammara Brown, who made her highly anticipated return to the stage after several years away, alongside South African hitmakers DJ Tira and Heavy K.
Local favourites EXQ, Nutty O, Nisha Ts, SaintFloew, Killer T, Tamy, Chillspot family, Master H, Qounfuzed and Enzo Ishall rounded out a bill that showcased the depth of Zimbabwe’s music scene.
For many, this year’s edition carried extra meaning not only as a celebration of food and music but also as a symbol of endurance.
Since its inception, the Castle Lager Braai Festival has become a cornerstone of Zimbabwe’s entertainment calendar, offering a rare blend of affordability and top-tier entertainment.
“It’s hard to believe we have been braaing together for a decade,” said one attendee between bites of smoky beef. “Castle Lager has given us a reason to come together and this has become a tradition for us.”
The 10th anniversary edition mirrored the scale of a national celebration. From the endless flow of beer and sizzling braai stands to the seamless rotation of DJs and live acts, the event reaffirmed why the Castle Lager Braai Festival remains unmatched in drawing people across generations and backgrounds.
What began as a casual celebration of Zimbabwe’s braai culture has evolved into a large-scale cultural movement one that blends gastronomy, music, and social connection in a uniquely Zimbabwean way.
Check out our interview with Ammara Brown
@zimbuzz How Ammara prepared for the Castle Lager Braai Fest after giving birth a few months ago
Share Your Comments