The stage is set, the stalls are ready, and soon Wagga Gardens will hum with music, laughter, and the gentle pulse of drums. After a short break, the No.1 Ladies Night Market returns on Saturday, 1 November 2025, from 4 PM to midnight, promising an evening where jazz and soul fill the air, local artists showcase their crafts, and friends and families gather under the open sky.
Visitors can expect live acoustic sets, soulful vocal performances, and vinyl DJ sessions, all leading up to a headline show by the Botswana Society for Jazz Education (BOSJE). From mellow saxophone melodies to upbeat jazz rhythms, the music invites guests to tap their feet, sway to the rhythm, and soak in the evening.
The Night Market grew out of the No.1 Ladies Coffee House at Thapong Visual Arts Centre, where it became a hub for local artists, makers, and music lovers. Since 2016, it has evolved into a celebration of Botswana’s creativity, bringing communities together to enjoy music, handcrafted goods, and shared experiences.
This edition leans fully into jazz and soul. Artisan stalls will feature handmade jewellery, ceramics, textiles, and other locally crafted goods, while food vendors offer both traditional favourites and modern flavours, from freshly baked breads to sweet treats. A dedicated children’s corner ensures the little ones are entertained as adults explore, mingle, and enjoy the music.
As darkness falls, Wagga Gardens transforms. Soft lights trace the pathways, the warm evening air carries the sounds of laughter and conversation, and the music ties it all together, creating a relaxed, inviting atmosphere. Each performance feels effortless yet energetic, and every corner holds a new discovery, whether a handcrafted piece of jewellery, a tasty bite, or a fresh musical talent.
Tickets are P250 for adults, including craft beer and wine tastings, and P100 for children, making it an evening for the whole family to enjoy. The No.1 Ladies Night Market is a celebration of local talent, community, and the smooth rhythms of jazz and soul under Botswana’s open sky.
