Luju Festival’s Children’s Village Returns With Bigger Adventure for Young Festivalgoers
Fezile Mkhatshwa
The Standard Bank Luju Food & Lifestyle Festival is bringing back one of its most popular family attractions, with The Beehive children’s village returning this year with an expanded programme designed to keep children entertained while giving parents the opportunity to fully enjoy the festival experience.
Taking place from 1 to 2 August at House On Fire in the Malkerns Valley, The Beehive returns under the theme ‘Inganekwane’ (siSwati word for folktales), transforming the children’s area into an immersive space where African storytelling, creativity and adventure come together. The attraction forms part of Luju’s wider family offering and will operate from 10am to 8pm on both festival days.
Festival Communications Manager Phiwo Dlamini, through an official press statement, said The Beehive has become an important part of the festival, encouraging participation from both children and parents.
“The Beehive continues to grow into a destination where children are not only entertained but inspired through creativity, storytelling and hands-on experiences. It gives families the opportunity to enjoy Luju together, knowing there is something meaningful for every age group,”
This year’s programme offers children a packed schedule of activities throughout the weekend;
Storytelling sessions, karaoke
Bee’s Got Talent performances
Meet the Maker creative workshops
Meet the Keeper experiences
Different family games
Great Honey Spelling Bee
Away from the stage, children will have access to a wide variety of attractions including quad bikes, jumping castles, bumper cars, a ferris wheel, carousel rides, the Bubble House, a Kids Spa and virtual reality gaming. Family-friendly food options and interactive games will also be available throughout the day, ensuring children remain engaged from morning until evening.
New addition
A new addition to this year’s programme is the Little Legends Parade, where young festivalgoers will showcase their creativity through the Kiddies Best Dressed Competition. Inspired by Luju’s fashion theme, ‘Kwasukasukela’ (Once Upon A Time), the parade encourages children to embrace imagination while celebrating African storytelling traditions.
According to Dlamini, the activities have been carefully selected to provide more than entertainment.
“Through the theme, children will discover that African folktales are still relevant today. The programme encourages imagination, creativity and learning while celebrating stories that have connected generations for centuries,”
The children’s village is delivered in partnership with several local organisations that contribute educational and creative experiences throughout the weekend. These include the Eswatini National Spelling Bee, Swazi Ceramics, ToyJoy and other partners who will present workshops, educational activities and interactive experiences that blend learning with fun.
The partnerships reinforce Luju’s vision of creating an environment where entertainment and education exist side by side. Children will have opportunities to develop creativity, confidence and problem-solving skills while taking part in activities designed specifically for their age groups.
While adults explore Luju’s renowned food, fashion and music experiences, children can spend the day in a dedicated family-friendly environment built around their interests. The result is a more balanced festival experience where every member of the family has something to enjoy without compromise.
Tickets available but selling out fast
“Families still have the opportunity to be part of this year’s Beehive experience, and we encourage them to plan ahead for what promises to be a memorable weekend of learning, creativity and family entertainment,”
Children aged five years and younger will receive free entry, while tickets are available for children aged six to 12 alongside adult Luju Gardens and Premium Lounge tickets. Tickets can be purchased through Standard Bank Eswatini branches in Mbabane, Ezulwini and Manzini, at Dala Spaces in Malandela’s Lifestyle, or via the Unayo Ticketing Service on WhatsApp.
