Save the Date for the 56th edition of the Ballito Pro Presented by O’Neill, International Surf & Lifestyle Festival
The scene is set for the highly anticipated Ballito Pro Presented by O’Neill, which is set to run from 22 June to 6 July on the shores of KwaDukuza on the KwaZulu-Natal North Coast. The 56th edition of this international surf and lifestyle festival is themed Sea-Sound-Waves to honour the unifying force of sport and music – the two pillars of The Ballito Pro.
“We’re excited to bring the world’s longest-running professional surfing event and most epic lifestyle festival back to KwaDukuza – the Jewel of the Zulu Kingdom,” commented Collette Bundy, The Ballito Pro Presented by O’Neill Festival Organiser.
“This year’s theme, Sea-Sound-Waves, takes its inspiration from the positive energy produced by the ocean and sound waves, two key elements of The Ballito Pro that create an interconnectedness between everyone who attends. From the incredible surfers catching waves to our talented musicians creating epic sound waves, The Ballito Pro is about fostering connections that transcend boundaries and remain with us forever.”
·Sea Waves: The 56th Ballito Pro Presented by O’Neill features the Challenger Series, considered the ultimate battleground for surfers vying to qualify for the elite Championship Tour in 2025. Returning faces and fresh threats will prepare to battle it out at The Ballito Pro – one of six stops across the world that form part of the Challenger Series.
·Sound Waves: Outside of the surfing arena, The Ballito Pro Presented by O’Neill hosts an epic lifestyle festival suited to all ages and interests. The festival includes live musical entertainment, recreational entertainment, environmental campaigns, and great retail offerings.
Support for Ballito Pro Presented by O’Neil
“The Ballito Pro Presented by O’Neill is not only a cornerstone of South African surfing history, but also a world-class proving ground for the next generation of global surfing talent,” said Tasha Mentasti, RegionalDirector of WSL Africa.
“As the longest-running professional surfing event on the African continent, the Ballito Pro continues to elevate the profile of African surfing on the global stage. This year’s theme, Sea-Sound-Waves, perfectly captures the spirit of the event, where high-performance surfing meets cultural celebration. We are proud to return to KwaDukuza for the 56th edition and to continue building a legacy that unites sport, music, and community.”
O’Neill, the original surf brand, is excited to continue its valued partnership with The Ballito Pro and the esteemed KwaDukuza Municipality as the presenting sponsor for the 2025 edition of the event.
O’Neill Brand Director Paul Canning, commented: “This enduring collaboration highlights our shared commitment to community and the vibrant spirit of South African surf culture. We are particularly stoked about this year’s compelling event theme, integrated into the Ballito Pro festivities, which communicates a powerful narrative about the inherent connectedness of surf and music culture.
“A true celebration of their common energy, shared rhythms, and intertwined stories promises an electrifying atmosphere throughout the event. This synergy of surf and sound deeply resonates with O’Neill’s core spirit of passion, freedom, and raw energy.
“O’Neill anticipates that The Ballito Pro 2025, with its rich tapestry of world-class surfing, vibrant cultural celebration, and this inspired event theme, will be a massive success, delivering an unforgettable experience for all who come and experience it.”
KwaDukuza Municipality Mayor, Cllr Muzi Ali Ngidi, said he is immensely proud to welcome everyone to the 2025 Ballito Pro presented by O’Neil: “This event has become more than just a sporting spectacle. Rather, it is a celebration of our vibrant coastal spirit, a platform for community engagement, and a catalyst for local economic growth.
“Each year, Ballito transforms into a hub of energy, culture, music, and world-class competition, drawing visitors from across the globe to our golden beaches and warm waters. The 56th edition Ballito Pro promises to be even more exciting, with a programme that showcases not only elite surfing talent but also our rich heritage, creativity, and hospitality. We invite you to experience all that Ballito and KwaDukuza have to offer, from thrilling surf to unforgettable local flavour.”
The 2025 Ballito Pro Festival Lineup
· Ballito Pro Music Concerts Presented by Corona
· Corona Sunset Sessions
· Battle of the DJs Competition
· Music & Instrument Programme
· After Dark Programmes and Parties
· iLembe Surf Development Fundraiser
· Beach Recreational Entertainment & Retail
· Environmental Campaign
· Workshops & Training Courses
· Coastal & Cultural Tourism Experience
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Don’t miss any of the action at the 2025 Ballito Pro Presented by O’Neill Festival! #seasoundwaves
#ulwandle umsindo amagagasi
Watch LIVE The Challenger Series will be broadcast LIVE on WorldSurfLeague.com, the free WSL app, and the WSL’s YouTube channel. Also, check out more ways to watch from the WSL’s broadcast partners.
To find out more about The Ballito Pro presented by O’Neill festival programme, visit:
Website: www.theballitopro.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/theballitopro/
Twitter: www.twitter.com/TheBallitoPro
Instagram: www.instagram.com/TheBallitoPro
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/theballitopro
Snapchat: Username – TheBallitoPro
Image Credit: © WSL/McGregor