‘Just cancel': Hey Neighbour triggers fan backlash as event postponed to December
New dates and a full lineup will be announced on 30 September.
Festival organisers cited sustainability concerns for the reschedule, apologising for poor communication and promising improved transparency going forward.
The highly anticipated Hey Neighbour music festival in Pretoria has been officially postponed to December, festival organisers announced on Thursday.
Initially scheduled to take place from 29 to 31 August, the two-day event was set to feature an international lineup including Doja Cat, Leon Thomas, and South Africa's very own DJ Black Coffee. New dates for the festival will be announced on 30 September, along with the unveiling of a full lineup.
In a statement, organisers said the decision to reschedule was made to 'ensure its continued success and sustainability.'
Acknowledging the disappointment caused by the change, Hey Neighbour CEO Glen Netshipise addressed the challenges faced: 'We understand the impact this has on our loyal festival-goers, sponsors, and artists. We also recognise that our communication around the challenges we've faced hasn't been as clear as it should have been, and for that, we sincerely apologise.' Netshipise promised improved transparency moving forward, saying: 'We are committed to ensuring that everyone stays informed as we work towards delivering an even better festival in December 2025.'
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For ticket holders, there's some reassurance. All previously purchased tickets will remain valid for the rescheduled dates, while refunds are set to be processed and paid by 10 October 2025. Organisers confirmed they are also in discussions with the initially booked artists to accommodate the new December schedule. Despite the promises, many festival-goers expressed disappointment and frustration over the change.
Social media was flooded with complaints from disheartened fans, who highlighted issues like pre-booked flights and accommodation, as well as the lengthy timeline for refunds. One disgruntled commenter on the festival's Instagram page wrote: 'This is disappointing! Our flights and accommodation that have been booked? Just cancel this whole festival and allow Daisies to show you how it is done! Also, why are we waiting three months for a refund? What has happened to the monies? Who is scamming who here?'
Another frustrated comment read: 'If Doja's not there, I'm not going. What was going to be unsuccessful if it was going to be held in August? Since the moving of dates was to 'ensure success'? Like, you're saying that you're going to be more open and transparent, then don't tell us what's happening! Disappointed.'
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