Zimbabwe’s Zimdancehall king, Winky D, is set to dominate the stage once again as he headlines this year’s Castle Lager Braai Festival, scheduled for Saturday, October 18, 2025, at Glamis Arena in Harare.
Fresh from drawing a record-breaking crowd at his Alexandra Sports Club show, Winky D — affectionately known as The Gafa — is expected to deliver yet another electrifying performance that will set Glamis alight. His loyal legion of fans, the Gafa Nation, are already buzzing ahead of what promises to be the biggest braai party of the decade.
This will not be Winky D’s first time commanding the Braai Festival stage. The Zimdancehall icon has headlined previous editions, consistently proving why he remains one of the most celebrated and commercially successful artists in Zimbabwe’s music industry.
“The Gafa always brings unmatched energy,” said one of the event organizers. “Every time Winky D steps on stage, he turns the festival into a national celebration — this year will be no different.”
Sharing the stage with Winky D will be South African hit-makers DJ Tira and Heavy K, alongside local favourites EXQ, Nutty O, Master H, and Enzo Ishall.
Nutty O, who is enjoying massive airplay with his latest single Too Much, will bring a fusion of Afrodancehall and urban vibes, while Enzo Ishall’s street anthems promise to keep the momentum alive.
But the spotlight, as always, is expected to shine brightest on Winky D — the man whose music continues to inspire social commentary, unity, and pride across generations.
This year’s edition marks the 10th anniversary of the Castle Lager Braai Festival, a decade-long journey that has become Zimbabwe’s ultimate outdoor music and braai celebration.
To commemorate the milestone, Castle Lager introduced a series of 10 Micro Braai events — one in each major city — leading up to the grand finale in Harare. These city-to-city parties have featured various local acts, giving fans a taste of what’s to come.
“This unique celebration allows Castle Lager to connect with consumers nationwide — friends coming together over music, braai, and the timeless taste of Castle Lager,” said the organizers.
The Castle Braai Festival has grown into more than just a music event — it’s a symbol of friendship and community, blending good food, cold beer, and live performances from some of Africa’s biggest artists.
South African performers have graced the stage in the past, including Kamo Mphela, who thrilled crowds in 2024. This year, the festival raises the bar even higher — and Winky D stands right at the heart of it.
“To all Zimbabweans, let’s celebrate a decade of bringing friends together through braai and 130 years of brewing excellence,” Castle Lager’s statement reads.
From Disappear to Chimurenga, Winky D’s music continues to echo the voice of the streets — fearless, conscious, and celebratory. His inclusion as the main headliner reinforces his status not just as a performer, but as a cultural pillar.
Whether he’s igniting political thought through song or commanding massive festival crowds, Winky D remains the artist who never misses the moment.
As the countdown to October 18 begins, all eyes turn to Glamis Arena, where The Gafa is once again expected to prove why he’s still the undisputed king of Zimdancehall.