By Dakarai Moyana Arts Correspondent
The music is ready to roar, braai fires are set to blaze and excitement is reaching fever pitch as Harare hosts the much-anticipated Castle Lager Braai Day Festival today, Saturday, with thousands of revellers expected to descend on Glamis Arena for one of Zimbabwe’s biggest entertainment gatherings.
After weeks of anticipation and nationwide promotional activities, the stage is set for a day of electrifying performances, sizzling barbecue and festivities celebrating Zimbabwe’s vibrant music and social culture.
Organisers, Delta Beverages, have spent recent weeks building momentum through promotional events at popular braai venues across the country, offering consumers opportunities to win festival tickets, Castle Lager products and other prizes.
The activities have served as a curtain-raiser to today’s main spectacle, which brings together some of Zimbabwe’s biggest musical names alongside emerging talent.
Dancehall heavyweight Winky D, popularly known as the Gafa, headlines a star-studded line-up featuring urban grooves sensation Ex Q and Zimdancehall hitmaker Enzo Ishall.
They will share the stage with rising performers Jnr Spragga, Atenda Chinx and DJ Loz, among more than ten local musicians and DJs billed to entertain festivalgoers.
Winky D’s confirmation, following speculation sparked by his omission from the initial advertised line-up, has added further anticipation to the event.
Beyond the musical performances, organisers have introduced Castle Braai O’Clock, a new interactive attraction scheduled between 3pm and 4pm, during which braai enthusiasts will compete in grilling contests and other activities for prizes.
“The activation will include the ultimate braai master contest and other engaging competitions, with Castle Lager merchandise and additional prizes on offer,” Delta Beverages said in a statement.
The initiative places Zimbabwe’s popular braai tradition at the heart of the festival, giving revellers an opportunity to participate in the entertainment rather than simply watch from the sidelines.
Delta Beverages said the event would celebrate music, braai culture and shared experiences while providing a platform for established and upcoming Zimbabwean artists.
Early-bird tickets were priced at US$10, while standard admission costs US$15. Each ticket includes entry, a braai pack and one litre of Castle Lager Draught, with tickets available through SahwiGate.
The festival is also expected to create opportunities for food vendors, service providers and businesses connected to Zimbabwe’s entertainment and hospitality industries.
With the countdown over, Glamis Arena now takes centre stage as festivalgoers prepare for a day of live music, dancing and the unmistakable aroma of meat sizzling over open flames.
