
From three days to two: Hey Neighbour Festival trimmed - what's next for ticket holders?
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Hey Neighbour Festival has shortened its 2025 event from three days to two, sparking mixed reactions among fans who previously purchased higher-priced three-day tickets.
While Doja Cat and Leon Thomas have been confirmed as headline performers for day two, the full line-up will only be revealed in June, including acts for day one.
Organisers have reassured early ticket holders to await email updates and highlighted their commitment to delivering an inclusive, world-class music experience.
The Hey Neighbour festival has gone from a three-day festival to a two-day festival in an announcement that has upset some fans and confused others. Namely, those who bought a three-day pass for R4 199 (general admission) and R 5 399 (VIP) back when ticket sales first went live.
Now, those exact tickets are priced at R2 899 (general admission) and R 3 799 (VIP) - a difference of R1 300 and R1 600, respectively. Festival goers who bought early-bird tickets when pricing was still based on a three-day festival have been encouraged to sit tight and wait for email communication regarding their options.
When contacted for comment about this, Festival organisers Glen21 Entertainment told News24: 'Yes of course. All tickets holders were contacted and advised as the announcement went out yesterday, with the info and options available to them.'
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The announcement was made shortly before Leon Thomas was announced as the second international headliner who will perform on day two of the festival, Sunday, 31 August. Doja Cat will also perform on that day.
At the time of writing, it was unclear who would perform on Day One of the festival (Saturday, 30 August); however, organisers promised that more acts would be announced in June.
'Brace yourselves for more announcements when the local line-up and perhaps a sprinkle of even more international star power is set to launch in June,' read part of a statement issued by organisers.
Glen21 further told News24: 'As you are aware we as a music festival have only announced two acts so far. As done in 2023, we announce talent in different phases. We will definitely still be announcing a long list of local talent in addition to a few international acts in June and July.'
Reactions to this news have differed across social platforms. Leon Thomas fans are eager to see him perform live in South Africa, while others have lamented not knowing much of his music.
Several people have also reported waiting for the full line-up before buying tickets.
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The festival debuted in 2023 and featured local and international trailblazing headliners, including Tyla, Kendrick Lamar, Zakes Bantwini, Swedish House Mafia, Khalid, and H.E.R.
Over 60 000 festival goers attended the three-day event at the Legends Adventure Farm in Pretoria.
'With a unique focus on inclusivity and community, the festival aims to create a space where people from all walks of life—regardless of background or nationality—can come together and celebrate their shared love for music and culture,' said festival organisers in a statement when the event was first launched.
'After the incredible response to our inaugural festival in 2023, we're beyond excited to bring Hey Neighbour back in 2025. This festival is about creating lasting connections that transcend borders and cultures through music,' said festival director Warren Le Grange.
'We're committed to delivering a world-class experience with exceptional production, diverse line-ups, and activities that will not only entertain but also inspire. Our vision is to create a festival that builds friendships, ignites creativity, and leaves a lasting impact on the global entertainment landscape,' he added.
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