Jozi Journeys
A Tonybration Brings Music, Art, and Motors Together in Johannesburg
Where vintage cars meet African rhythm
Johannesburg is gearing up for a weekend of sound, soul, and shine. On 1 November 2025, the James Hall Museum of Transport will transform into a celebration of African creativity like no other. It’s called A Tonybration, a festival that blends live music, art, vintage cars, and heritage into one unforgettable day.
This event is a collaboration between the Creative Native Motor Show and The Highlife Experience, bringing two worlds together: the mechanical beauty of classic cars and the pulsating rhythms of African highlife music. Together, they pay tribute to the late Tony Allen, one of the fathers of highlife and Afrobeat, whose timeless grooves continue to inspire musicians around the world.
A tribute to Tony Allen’s legacy
Tony Allen’s name carries deep meaning across Africa’s music scene. Known for his work alongside Fela Kuti and for pioneering Afrobeat’s signature sound, Allen shaped how the world hears African rhythm. A Tonybration celebrates that legacy, not through nostalgia, but through a modern reawakening of his influence.
Expect a lineup of live performers, DJs, and “vibe dealers” who will keep the crowd moving from morning until midnight. The festival runs from 10 am till late, turning the James Hall Museum’s historic grounds into a living, breathing showcase of culture.
A visual feast on four wheels
The Creative Native Motor Show brings a striking visual layer to the celebration. Known for its vibrant display of classic, vintage, and luxury cars, the show captures the glamour of the highlife era, a time when music, fashion, and style all danced to the same beat. Visitors can expect to see chrome-polished engines, timeless interiors, and plenty of photo-ready moments.
Beyond the cars, the event will feature art installations, food stalls, local crafts, and community-driven activities. It’s designed to be family-friendly, welcoming everyone from music lovers and art collectors to petrolheads and cultural explorers.
A cultural crossroad in the heart of Joburg
The James Hall Museum of Transport, nestled in La Rochelle, is one of the city’s most iconic spaces for heritage events. Its nostalgic setting makes it the perfect venue to celebrate the crossroads between movement and music. It’s not just about the cars or the instruments; it’s about how both represent African innovation, rhythm, and identity.
With limited parking available, organisers are encouraging festival-goers to make use of e-hailing services. Entry is free, but tickets are limited and available via Quicket, so early registration is a must.
A festival that moves to the beat of Joburg’s heart
What makes A Tonybration special is its fusion of past and present. It’s not simply a car show or a concert; it’s a living tribute to the rhythm that drives African life. From the mechanical hum of engines to the syncopated beats of highlife, it’s a reminder that Joburg’s creative spirit never stops moving.
As the event’s slogan puts it: #TheRhythmContinues.
Event details
Date: 1 November 2025
Venue: James Hall Museum of Transport, 193 Rosettenville Road, La Rochelle, Johannesburg
Time: 10 am till late
Tickets: Free via Quicket (limited availability)
Parking: Limited, e-hailing recommended
Also read: Edenvale’s Halloween Night Market 2025: Food, Music, and Family Fun
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Source: AllEvents
Featured Image: Quicket
