South Africa’s motoring community will once again descend on the iconic Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit later this year as the Festival of Motoring (FoM) returns for its ninth edition — promising three days of high-performance cars, test drives, drifting experiences and industry showcases.
Scheduled to take place from 28 to 30 August 2026, the event has grown into the country’s largest automotive lifestyle festival, attracting thousands of enthusiasts, manufacturers and industry leaders each year.
This year’s festival aims to build on that momentum with more brands, new interactive zones and expanded driving experiences.
A showcase for the latest cars
More than 20 global automotive brands are expected to participate in the 2026 festival, displaying their newest models alongside vehicles set to launch in the South African market.
For visitors, the appeal goes beyond simply viewing cars on display.
Drivers will have the opportunity to:
- Test drive new models on Kyalami’s dedicated test track
- Experience off-road capability in the 4×4 Village
- Watch professional drivers demonstrate high-performance track runs
- Join hot laps around the circuit in performance vehicles
The event has increasingly become a major platform for carmakers to connect directly with consumers, allowing potential buyers to experience vehicles before they hit showrooms.
New adventure experiences
Organisers have also introduced a new attraction for 2026 — the FoM Adventure Zone.
The area will offer hands-on driving activities and motorsport experiences, including:
- Drifting ride-alongs with professional drivers
- Karting challenges
- Interactive motorsport demonstrations
These activities are designed to bring visitors closer to the thrill of performance driving while expanding the festival’s appeal beyond traditional car showcases.
A lifestyle event beyond the track
While cars remain the main attraction, the Festival of Motoring has evolved into a broader lifestyle event.
Visitors can expect:
- Live entertainment throughout the weekend
- Food and beverage vendors
- Automotive merchandise exhibitors
- Family-friendly activities
Organisers say the goal is to create an immersive experience that celebrates the entire automotive culture.
“We have meticulously designed every track drive, display and performance to ensure visitors don’t just attend an event — they enter a space where their passion for motoring is celebrated,” said Judy Maharaj, Show Director of the Festival of Motoring.
“This is the platform where the entire motoring community gathers to create the stories that will define the next generation of our motoring legacy.”
Ticket prices and packages
Tickets for the 2026 Festival of Motoring are already available online through Howler, with early-bird pricing currently on offer.
General access tickets include:
- Adults: R330
- Children under 4: Free
- Children (4–12): R88
- Pensioners (65+): R270
- Weekend pass: R890
Visitors seeking a premium experience can opt for hospitality packages with access to exclusive viewing areas.
These packages include:
- Rooftop suites overlooking the circuit
- All-day food and drinks
- Entertainment
- A high-performance hot lap around the Kyalami circuit
Premium hospitality tickets start at R2,200 and can reach R4,500 depending on the package.
Family-friendly hospitality suites are also available, offering secure spaces for parents with younger children.
Getting to the event
Free parking will be available at the circuit, although organisers warn that it typically fills quickly.
Visitors who arrive later may need to park at the nearby Mall of Africa, where a free shuttle service will run throughout the day between the mall and the circuit.
Why the festival matters
The Festival of Motoring has grown significantly since its launch in 2016, becoming a key annual event for South Africa’s automotive industry.
For manufacturers, it provides a direct platform to showcase innovation and connect with consumers. For enthusiasts, it offers a rare opportunity to experience new vehicles and motorsport action in one place.
With the 2026 edition introducing new experiences and returning to the legendary Kyalami circuit, organisers expect this year’s event to be the biggest yet.