Harris Music Festival Set to Bring High Energy Finale to Bulawayo During ZITF Weekend
Bulawayo is preparing for a major entertainment highlight as the city hosts the closing celebrations of the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair through the highly anticipated Harris Music Festival. The event will take place at the Bulawayo Athletic Club this Saturday and is expected to draw large crowds from across the country and the region. Over the years, the festival has grown from a simple closing event into a major cultural and music gathering that defines the end of the trade fair week. Visitors attending the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair now see the festival as an essential part of the overall experience. The atmosphere in the city is already building, with strong anticipation for a night filled with live performances, dancing and celebration.
This year’s edition brings together a strong lineup of both local and regional talent, reflecting the festival’s growing reputation. One of the headline performers is Winky D, who returns to the stage with a history of delivering powerful performances at the event. His presence continues to draw loyal fans who follow his music across the country. He will be joined by a group of Zimbabwean acts including Msiz’kay, Tiff, DJ Sfiso, Prince Eskhosini and DJ Eugy. Hosting duties will be handled by MTKay Ntwana, a presenter known for his experience in managing large scale entertainment events, including international stages.
The festival also features a strong South African presence, which adds regional diversity and broader appeal to the lineup. Leading this group is Makhadzi, a popular performer known for her high energy stage presence. She will be joined by artists such as Kamo Mphela, Scotts Maphuma and NaakMusiQ, who each bring their own distinct sound to the event. Maskandi artist Mthandeni SK is also part of the programme, introducing a traditional music element that connects deeply with cultural roots. Additional acts including Cowboii, Tracy, Thukuthela, Jazz Worx and GL Ceejay complete the lineup, creating a mix of established names and rising talent.
Organisers have confirmed that preparations are nearly complete, with logistics being finalised ahead of the weekend. According to event coordinator Tonderai Rice, international performers from South Africa will begin arriving on Friday, with Mthandeni SK leading the first group. The remaining artists are expected to arrive on Saturday, just in time for sound checks and final rehearsals. The planning team has also addressed growing attendance expectations by arranging additional parking facilities near the venue. This step aims to improve accessibility and reduce congestion, ensuring a smoother experience for attendees.
The rising popularity of the Harris Music Festival has placed it among the most important entertainment events in Bulawayo’s annual calendar. What started as a closing celebration for the trade fair has now become a standalone attraction that draws music lovers from different backgrounds. Performers have also expressed excitement about the platform, with Msiz’kay highlighting how the event has contributed to his growth as an artist. He noted that the audience energy continues to improve each year, encouraging stronger performances from all acts involved. This cycle of audience engagement and artist development has helped build the festival’s strong identity.
As the city prepares for the final night of the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair, expectations remain high for a memorable show. The combination of local talent, regional stars and a well organised production is expected to deliver a vibrant experience for thousands of attendees. The Harris Music Festival continues to evolve into a major cultural moment that extends beyond music alone, reflecting creativity, unity and celebration. With strong attendance anticipated and a diverse lineup ready to perform, Bulawayo is set for a powerful and energetic conclusion to the trade fair weekend.
