The people of Zwigodini in the Niani area will be treated royally when famous entertainers descend on their little village to celebrate the arrival of the festive season in style.

Zwigodini village is the home of The Big Tree - the world's biggest and oldest Baobab tree, which is estimated to be more than 3 000 years old, with a base circumference of 43 meters.

The celebration will be in the form of a music festival, which will take place at the Big Tree Holiday Lodge on Christmas Eve (24 December). Big names who will perform during the event include David Mmbi, Killer Gee, Jininka, Humbulani Ramagwedzha, McKleker featuring Tshibulebule, Coolfelo, Bhamba, Remzee, Just Ice, Virgi M, Manyisa, DJ Nipro and Dan Junior. KK of Muvhango fame and Mr Bundu of Tshovhilingani will be directing the programme.

The organizer of the event, Takie Makhado, said it was important to take the event to the far northern part of the province because people there were entertainment thirsty. “Most of the people there only hear their role models on radio or watch them on TV, but we want to build a close and personal relationship between these entertainers and their fans in rural areas. Few music festivals take place in these areas and it is important to make these people feel that they are appreciated like other community members in suburbs and towns.”

Makhado said preparations for the much-awaited historic event had been finalized. “Security will be very tight and no bottles will be allowed because we want our people to enjoy this special event without any worries. All logistical arrangements have been finalized and we are only waiting for the big day. Community members will also have the opportunity to buy the music of their favourite artists, which will be available at the spot. Entry tickets will be available at R70 and gates will open at 13:00 on 24 December. For more information, call me at 072 054 7549.”

Jeannette Nkanyane, aka Jininka, is one of the top artists billed to perform. “I will use the opportunity to promote my new album, Ndi Lwendoni, and I will also entertain my fans with my previous offerings like Love Life, Ndi Muvenda and Zwavhuhadzi.  I urge people to come in large numbers to see me live because it will be my first time to perform in this part of Vhembe. It will definitely be one of the biggest shows to remember.”