Sharksfest 2025: Durban’s biggest gameday lifestyle experience returns with unprecedented excitement

The excitement is building for Sharksfest 2025, and this year’s edition promises to be bigger, bolder and more unforgettable than ever. Beyond being a rugby match, Sharksfest has become a lifestyle experience and a key highlight on Durban’s social calendar, attracting fans from across the country.

This year, the Hollywoodbets Sharks face off against the Vodacom Bulls on Saturday, 20 December, at Hollywoodbets Kings Park Stadium. The match has already set records as our fastest-selling fixture in recent history, with the lower bowl completely sold out almost a month before kick-off.

Due to an overwhelming demand, we are thrilled to announce the opening of the Western Upper Stand and the Eastern Upper Stand. The Eastern Upper stand has not been at full capacity since 2012 for a Sharks game. The excitement is real and the city is buzzing with anticipation.

As a gift to Durban and a token of appreciation to our loyal supporters, The Sharks are offering an incredible Black Friday special for this weekend only. Fans can purchase tickets for the Western Upper and Eastern Upper stands at a 40% discount.

The Sharks Chief Growth Officer, Michael Leslie said: “Sharksfest has evolved into far more than a rugby fixture, it has become a moment where Durban comes alive. Seeing this level of demand, weeks before matchday, is a powerful reminder of what this community is capable of when we rally together. Opening the Eastern Upper stand for the first time in more than a decade speaks to the momentum we are building, and we are committed to ensuring fans enjoy an experience worthy of that energy.

“Our goal has always been to create moments that bring people back to Hollywoodbets Kings Park, and the enthusiasm we are seeing right now tells us we’re heading in the right direction. Durban is ready, our fans are ready and we can’t wait to Fill the Tank.”

But that’s not all. In collaboration with uShaka Marine World and Southern Sun, every match ticket purchased this weekend (not limited to just Sharksfest but the Saracens game on 13 December and the Lions game on 3 January 2026) qualifies you for:

• 20% off at uShaka Marine World (Wet & Wild, Sea World and snorkelling experiences)

• 25% off accommodation at Southern Sun properties in Durban and Umhlanga

*T’s & C’s apply. Offer valid for this Black Friday weekend only.

The Sharks may head into this fixture as underdogs, but with grit, determination, and the roar of our fans, we are ready to give it our all. This is a chance for Durban to come together and Fill the Tank for an unforgettable Sharksfest matchday experience.

Tickets are selling fast and fans are urged to secure their seats now for what is the hottest ticket in town. Get your ticket by visiting www.sharksrugby.co.za or The Sharks Ticket Office.