HARARE, Zimbabwe — In the heart of Zimbabwe’s capital, where the rhythm of the city meets the roar of the engine, a new tradition is taking root. Following a landmark debut that redefined the local automotive scene, the Simba Auto Festival is set to return for its highly anticipated second edition on August 8, 2026. Transforming the lush grounds of the Belgravia Sports Club into a sanctuary for petrolheads and families alike, the event promises to be more than just a car show—it is a full-throttle celebration of Zimbabwean lifestyle and innovation.
For over a decade, I have covered the evolution of Zimbabwe’s cultural landscape, witnessing the rise of events that attempt to capture the nation’s spirit. Few, however, have managed to blend the precision of automotive engineering with the raw energy of the local arts scene as seamlessly as the Simba Auto Festival.
This year’s showcase is poised to be a visual feast. From meticulously restored vintage classics that whisper stories of the past to the aggressive lines of modern supercars and custom-wrapped masterpieces, the festival is a testament to the growing sophistication of the Zimbabwean auto culture. Attendees can expect a curated selection of vehicles that highlight the diversity of the road, supported by industry giants such as PANJAP Motors and Ghost Wraps Zw, who have become synonymous with automotive excellence in the region.
While the cars are the stars, the soundtrack of the day is equally formidable. The second edition has secured a lineup that reads like a “who’s who” of contemporary Zimbabwean music. Headlining the festivities is the veteran hitmaker Freeman HKD, whose presence alone guarantees an electric atmosphere. Joining him is the “Shona Prince” himself, Takura, whose soulful melodies and hip-hop flair have earned him a dedicated following across the continent.
The entertainment roster is rounded out by the atmospheric sounds of San.Wav and the high-energy performances of Madeherbelieve, ensuring that the energy remains high from the 10:00 AM kickoff until the final notes fade late into the night. It is this intersection of “horsepower and hits” that distinguishes the Simba Auto Festival from traditional exhibitions, creating a multi-sensory experience that appeals to a broad demographic.
Beyond the spectacle, the festival serves as a vital networking hub for the business community. The presence of heavyweight sponsors—including Castrol, ENGEN Lubricants, HP Lubes, and Corex Insurance Brokers—underscores the event’s significance as a commercial platform. From Charter Aluminium Works to Simlex Transport and Logistics, the festival brings together the backbone of Zimbabwe’s industrial and service sectors.
For families, the event offers a rare opportunity for collective enjoyment. With dedicated zones for food, drinks, and family-friendly activities, the Belgravia Sports Club will provide a safe and vibrant environment for the next generation of enthusiasts to catch the “auto bug.”
In a brilliant move to engage the public, Simba Motors is currently running a promotion where customers can win tickets by simply making a purchase at their shop. It is a gesture that reflects the festival’s core mission: inclusivity. With Early Bird Tickets priced at a modest US$5, the organizers are ensuring that the “ultimate celebration of cars” remains accessible to all.
As the sun sets over Harare on August 8th, the Simba Auto Festival will likely be remembered not just for the cars on display, but for the community it built. Whether you are a die-hard enthusiast, a music lover, or simply looking for a day of “good vibes” with friends and family, Belgravia is the only place to be.
