Great news for Suzuki owners and people who like music festivals in South Africa

Suzuki Auto South Africa has just announced that it is bringing back the Jimny Gathering, following the success of the first two festivals.

This time around, the music and motoring festival is moving to Mpumalanga, as it will be held just outside White River from 23 to 27 September 2027.

The Jimny Gathering is officially recognised as the largest vehicle owner get-together of its kind in the world, bringing fans of the compact off-roader to one place for a camping weekend with live music, 4×4 trails, and family entertainment.

However, while it is called the Jimny Gathering, the festival will be open to all members of the public, regardless of whether they own a Suzuki.

The 2027 Gathering is expected to feature hundreds of Jimny models, from the latest 5-door units to the vintage SJ and LJ derivates.

Everything will be centred around the Klipkoppie Dam. During the day, Jimny owners will have the opportunity to explore a selection of 4×4 trails in the surrounding area, including scenic routes and more technical areas meant to put their off-road skills to the test.

Alongside the Jimny Gathering is the Suzuki Safari Town Music Festival, which will feature a line-up of local artists, food and beverage vendors, craft bars, market stalls, and entertainment meant for the whole family.

South African comedian and Jimny owner Schalk Bezuidenhout is also returning as the event’s host for the third consecutive Gathering.

“We’ve seen just how passionate the Jimny community is at the first two Gatherings, and we’re incredibly excited to bring the event to the Lowveld for the very first time,” said Brendon Carpenter, Brand Marketing Manager at Suzuki Auto South Africa.

“The Lowveld is an incredible setting for a Jimny adventure, and we’re planning another weekend that brings together everything people have come to love about the Gathering – from getting out on the trails to camping with friends, enjoying great music and simply celebrating the Jimny community. It’s a big celebration of one of Suzuki’s most-loved small cars.”

Another world record attempt

Something else that has become a staple of the Jimny Gathering is an attempt to set a Guinness World Record.

In 2023, the first festival set a world record for the most vehicles to have their headlights switched on simultaneously.

Suzuki then set another record at the 2025 Gathering for the most cars to close their doors simultaneously.

The carmaker has yet to announce which world record it will attempt to set at the 2027 Gathering next year. The details of this attempt will be revealed closer to the time.

“I’m very happy to be coming back for my third Jimny Gathering, although I’m starting to think the Jimny people are just looking for excuses to get me to drive across the country,” said Schalk Bezuidenhout.

“But seriously, there’s something very special about the Gathering. You have thousands of people who share a love for these little machines coming together for a weekend of adventure, music and lekker times.”

“I’ve seen the energy and gees at the first two events, and I can’t wait to see what happens when the #JimnyFam takes over the Lowveld in September 2027.”

Tickets and camping bookings for the 2027 Suzuki Jimny Gathering can be purchased at www.jimnygathering.co.za.

Jimny Gathering