It is still a year away, but Suzuki is already making plans to grow the Jimny Gathering even further. The Japanese carmaker has confirmed that the third edition of the event will take place just outside White River in Mpumalanga from September 23 to 26, 2027.
The announcement was made exactly one year before the event, continuing a tradition Suzuki started with the first two Gatherings in Clarens and the Garden Route. Now recognised as the biggest gathering of Suzuki Jimny owners anywhere in the world, the event has become a firm fixture for fans of the compact 4x4.
The 2027 edition will span four days and include camping, music and family entertainment. Hundreds of Jimnys are expected to make the trip, from the latest five-door models to older SJ and LJ derivatives.
Feel a need to be part of the fun - get your Suzuki Jimny right here
Klipkoppie Dam will serve as the main hub, where attendees will set up camp under the Lowveld sky. During the day, owners can tackle a range of 4x4 trails in the area, from easy scenic routes to more challenging terrain for those wanting to test their skills.
There will also be plenty to do away from the trails.
The Suzuki Safari Town Music Festival returns as part of the weekend programme and is open to everyone, whether they own a Jimny or not. The festival will feature local music acts, food and drink vendors, craft bars, market stalls and entertainment for the whole family.
Comedian and Jimny owner Schalk Bezuidenhout will host the Gathering for a third time.
"We've seen just how passionate the Jimny community is at the first two Gatherings, and we're incredibly excited to bring the event to the Lowveld for the very first time," says Brendon Carpenter, Brand Marketing Manager at Suzuki Auto South Africa.
"The Lowveld is an incredible setting for a Jimny adventure, and we're planning another weekend that brings together everything people have come to love about the Gathering – from getting out on the trails to camping with friends, enjoying great music and simply celebrating the Jimny community. It's a big celebration of one of Suzuki's most-loved small cars."
Can I afford it – find out with this handy Finance Calculator
Suzuki is also planning another record attempt, adding to the event's growing list of achievements. The first Gathering in 2023 set a Guinness World Records title for the most vehicles with their headlights switched on simultaneously, while the 2025 event broke the record for the most car doors closed simultaneously. Details of the 2027 attempt will be shared closer to the time, and every Jimny attending will have the chance to take part.
"I'm very happy to be coming back for my third Jimny Gathering, although I'm starting to think the Jimny people are just looking for excuses to get me to drive across the country," Bezuidenhout joked.
"But seriously, there's something very special about the Gathering. You have thousands of people who share a love for these little machines coming together for a weekend of adventure, music and lekker times. I've seen the energy and gees at the first two events, and I can't wait to see what happens when the #JimnyFam takes over the Lowveld in September 2027."
The event is expected to draw visitors from across South Africa, giving them a chance to experience the Lowveld while supporting businesses in White River and the surrounding areas.
Tickets and camping bookings for the 2027 Jimny Gathering are available at www.jimnygathering.co.za.
Colin Windell for Colin-on-Cars in association with
proudly CHANGECARS
