Last year, Suzuki set out to break records by amassing the greatest number of Jimnys at a single event. The three-day-long event would include fun and festivities with like-minded owners all converging on the sleepy Free State town of Clarens, all keen to share stories of ownership and adventure, linked by the common thread of Suzuki Jimny owners. It was an opportunity to share a passion for the diminutive 4x4.
Related: Inaugural Jimny Gathering a smash hit for Suzuki!
Nearly 800 Suzuki Jimnys gathered for the official gathering, with many electing to make the weekend count. They camped out from Friday at the official Gathering campsite and filled their time with food, drink, and activities at the Suzuki Safari Town Festival in the Clarens town square and surrounding vendors.
Safari Town
A central hub was crafted to provide a central gathering point for attendees of the Jimny Gathering in the Clarens town square, with multiple food and drink vendors, music and activities creating a uniquely Jimny vibe and undeniably South African. The Suzuki Safari Town Festival was open to all, not just Jimny owners. The Saturday was filled with much laughter and joy, with attendees later being treated to a wholesome music extravaganza with Mango Groove, Goodluck, Black Heidi, and Spoegwolf performing until the late night hours.
The Gathering
Those who opted for just a one-day event chose the official Jimny gathering on Sunday as the day of choice. Again, wonderful local artists kept the thousands dancing and jiving as food and drink flowed. Heritage displays of Suzuki LJ, SJ, and Jimny were joined by the first reveal of the 5-door Jimny ahead of its local launch. Master of Ceremonies was local comedian Schalk Bezuidenhout, a fellow Jimny owner, who ensured the crowd was doubled over more often than not. For those with itchy pants, a beautiful 4x4 route allowed them to enjoy the surrounding landscape in a way best suited for the Suzuki Jimny.
Guinness Book of World Records
In addition to the largest gathering of Suzuki Jimnys in South Africa, the Gathering set out to claim the Guinness Book of World Records for the greatest number of motor vehicles to switch on their lights simultaneously. This record included all the wonderful LJ, SJ, and Samurais in attendance, as the Gathering was not for Jimnys alone but the entire Suzuki micro-4x4 family. An astounding 787 vehicles completed the task, securing their place in the famous book of records and confirmed by the Guinness judge in attendance.
Jimny Gathering 2025
Soon after the successful 2023 event, fans of the model who attended and owners who missed out all had the same question: When is the next Gathering? Brendon Carpenter of Suzuki South Africa suggested that Jimny Gathering could become a regular event, but due to its large scale, it would most likely only occur every two years.
Recently, Schalk Bezuidenhout shared a humorous and entertaining video on social media confirming the 2025 event. You can watch it below.
Jimny Gathering 2025 official website
Next year's event will change location and move to the Louvain Guest Farm in the Western Cape, just outside of George in the breathtaking Langkloof mountains of the Outeniqua range. It promises more of the same with food, drink, entertainment, curated 4x4 trails, vendors, and another Guinness Book of World Records attempt.
Suzuki Safari Town Festival will take place again in Oudtshoorn, creating an unforgettable atmosphere and showcasing the best of South Africa's musical talents. A selection of camping options will be available, and guests of the Gathering can stay in nearby Oudtshoorn or George should camping be a little too rough and tumble.
Jimny Gathering 2025 will take place from 25 to 28 September 2025, and tickets will go on sale on 1 November 2024.
