The festival aims to be a full day of music, movement and family sun, a tribute to customers, dealers, partners and friends who have been part of the brand's journey, says GWM.
The day begins with a moment that set the tone for celebration. The GWM Owners Club and Haval Ladies community led a convoy into Syringa Park, arriving in style and showcasing the passion, pride, and unity that exists within the GWM family. The convoy aims to be a reminder that the brand is not only defined by the vehicles it builds but also by the people who drive them and the sense of belonging they create, adds GWM.
Syringa Park itself was alive with activity. Every corner offered something different to see, try, taste, or experience. Families wandered through food stalls, explored interactive installations, enjoyed photo moments, test drove GWM models and joined in friendly competitions. The atmosphere aims to be filled with colour and energy, aiming to turn the park into a playground where people connected over shared moments and curiosity, says GWM.
A dedicated kids' zone aims to bring imagination to life with bright play areas, hands-on activities and themed adventures that kept children entertained for hours. Adults can also embrace the fun, discovering games, relaxation spaces and a 4x4 test drive experience that allowed guests to get behind the wheel of GWM's latest models. These showcases aim to highlight the brand's commitment to safety, performance and technology while reinforcing its belief that a vehicle should be part of everyday moments, not just a mode of transport, adds GWM.
Music plays a central role in the celebration, with a lineup that aims to showcase South Africa's rich musical talent. MiCasa performs some of their famous hits, These Streets and Feeling Every Note, while Oscar Mbo's set closes the day with deep house rhythms that aim to carry the festival into the evening with energy. Kamo Mphela also aims to bring pure energy with Amanikiniki, says GWM.
Karen Zoid aims to engage festival goers with the Anthem of a Reluctant Housewife, while Jo Black creates sing-along moments. "Mapantsula Movement" adds a dynamic cultural performance that aims to ti the day together with nostalgia and heritage, adds GWM.
Beyond entertainment, FAM Fest aims to honour GWM's position in South Africa's automotive landscape. Since first introducing its vehicles to the country, the brand has aimed to be at the forefront of bringing fresh thinking, bold design and lifestyle-focused mobility solutions to local drivers, says GWM.
The festival recognises the communities that have embraced the brand and helped it grow. Among GWM's stable of vehicles, the Jolion stands out as the most popular model with more than 3 000 units sold in the first quarter of 2025 alone, adds GWM.
"This was more than a party," says Conrad Gronewald, Chief Operations Officer at GWM South Africa. "It was a celebration of trust, connection and shared value. FAM FEST reflects our commitment to family, fun and lifestyle, while also looking forward to the next chapter of GWM in South Africa, one that will continue to innovate, create memorable experiences and bring people together."
As the festival comes to an end, one thing is clear: the next decade will be one of stronger customer connections and renewed commitment to meeting the evolving needs of South African consumers. FAM FEST closes on a note of gratitude and ambition, aiming to reflect a brand that listens, learns and grows with the people it serves, adds GWM.
Floyd Ramabulana, Head of Marketing at GWM South Africa, concludes that the day captures the heart of the brand. "FAM Fest is a reminder that our story is written with our customers. Every family that arrived today, every GWM owner in the convoys, every child that played in the kids' zone and every person who sang along to the music is part of our journey. As we step into this new decade, we remain committed to building vehicles and experiences that reflect the lifestyles, aspirations and growing needs of South Africans."
For more information, visit www.gwm.co.za. You can also follow GWM on Facebook, LinkedIn, X, Instagram, or on TikTok.
*Image courtesy of contributor