Football is about more than what happens on the pitch.
It’s about the roar of the crowd. The anticipation before kick-off. The shared celebrations. The heartbreak. The friendships. The food. The music. And the unforgettable moments that bring people together.
This winter, football fans in Johannesburg will have a new place to experience all of that and more as the Smirnoff ICE Fan Park officially arrives in Sandton.
Launching on Sunday, 28 June 2026, at Wakanda Village, the immersive fan experience promises to transform football viewing into an all-day celebration of sport, music, food and culture.
Running until 19 July 2026, the Smirnoff ICE Fan Park is set to become one of Johannesburg’s most exciting destinations for fans looking to enjoy the atmosphere of an international football tournament surrounded by great entertainment and fellow supporters.
Where Football Meets Culture
Few things unite people quite like football.
Whether supporting a favourite nation, watching alongside friends or meeting fellow fans for the first time, the game has an unmatched ability to create moments of connection.
The Smirnoff ICE Fan Park has been designed around that very idea.
Located in the heart of Sandton at Wakanda Village, the venue will offer football fans the opportunity to watch matches on big screens while enjoying a vibrant social atmosphere filled with music, food and entertainment.
The initiative forms part of Smirnoff’s ongoing We Do We Nakanjani platform, which celebrates authentic self-expression, meaningful social experiences and the communities that shape culture.
The result is more than just a viewing venue.
It’s a complete fan experience.
A Soundtrack for Every Match Day
Football may be the headline attraction, but the entertainment extends far beyond the action on screen.
The opening edition of the Smirnoff ICE Fan Park will feature performances from some of South Africa’s most exciting DJs, creating an energetic soundtrack before, during and after the football action.
Fans can look forward to sets from:
- 2wo Bunnies
- Tristan Urwin
- Havoc
- Tiiamo
The carefully curated lineup ensures that every matchday becomes a full entertainment experience where sport and music blend seamlessly together.
Whether celebrating a dramatic victory or soaking in the atmosphere between fixtures, attendees can expect high-energy performances throughout the event period.
More Than Just a Fan Zone
The Smirnoff ICE Fan Park has been created as a destination where people can spend an entire day immersed in football culture.
Visitors can enjoy:
- Live football screenings on large screens
- A vibrant fan atmosphere
- Great food offerings
- Refreshing beverages
- Live DJ performances
- Social spaces designed for connection and celebration
The concept is simple: create an environment where fans can experience the excitement of tournament football together.
According to Ifeoma Agu, Group Head of Culture, Influencers and Advocacy at Diageo South, West and Central Africa, the goal is to celebrate the unique role football plays in bringing people together.
“Football has always had a unique way of bringing people together, and the Smirnoff ICE Fan Park is about creating a space where fans can share in the excitement, energy and passion of the game while enjoying incredible music, food and entertainment,” says Agu.
A Winter Destination for Football Lovers
Over the course of the tournament period, the Smirnoff ICE Fan Park will host a series of viewing experiences, giving fans multiple opportunities to gather and enjoy the action together.
Whether you’re a die-hard football supporter, a music lover looking for a lively weekend outing, or simply someone searching for a great social experience in Johannesburg, the Fan Park aims to offer something for everyone.
The combination of football, entertainment and community spirit creates an atmosphere that extends far beyond the final whistle.
The Place to Be This Winter
As excitement builds around one of the biggest international football tournaments on the calendar, the Smirnoff ICE Fan Park is positioning itself as one of Johannesburg’s must-visit winter attractions.
For three weeks, Wakanda Village will become a hub of football passion, cultural energy and shared experiences.
It’s where rival supporters can celebrate together.
Where strangers become friends.
And where every goal feels bigger when it’s experienced as part of a crowd.
If football is the beautiful game, then the Smirnoff ICE Fan Park promises to be one of the most beautiful places to watch it this winter.
Event Details
Event: Smirnoff ICE Fan Park
Dates: 28 June 2026 – 19 July 2026
Venue: Wakanda Village, 137 West Street, Sandton
Entry Fee: R100 per person
Entertainment Line-Up: 2wo Bunnies, Tristan Urwin, Havoc and Tiiamo
Tickets: Available via Howler
