On a crisp autumn evening in Johannesburg, The Houghton Hotel played host to the much-anticipated Savanna Neat Gala 2025. This exclusive event seamlessly blended high fashion, comedic brilliance, and the refined taste of Savanna’s signature Neat cider, creating an unforgettable experience for all attendees.
While the world tuned into the Met Gala, Mzansi turned the spotlight home with the Savanna Neat Gala, hosted on 10 May at the opulent Houghton Hotel. With a theme that called for “Supahfine: Tailoring in Neat Style,” the evening delivered a bold, playful, and fashion-forward celebration of comedy and couture over the crisp elegance of Savanna Neat.
A Fashionable Affair
The gala was a sartorial spectacle, with guests donning ensembles that ranged from avant-garde creations to timeless classics. The Houghton Hotel’s opulent interiors, characterized by bespoke furniture and elegant design elements , provided the perfect backdrop for this display of style. The hotel’s luxurious ambiance elevated the evening, making it a night to remember for fashion aficionados.
Influencers in the Spotlight
The event attracted a plethora of influencers and socialites, each bringing their unique flair to the gala. Their presence not only amplified the event’s reach but also underscored its significance in the social calendar. The Houghton Hotel, renowned for its world-class amenities and exceptional service , ensured that these digital trendsetters experienced hospitality at its finest.
The guest list brought the buzz, with public figure Lasizwe, media personality Mohale Motaung, award-winning stylist and reality TV star Phupho Gumede, TikTok stars Banele Ndaba and Cassidy Nicholson, and author Tshiamo Modisane (who also took home the evening’s Best Dressed title) all turning heads. Also spotted were media personality Dominic Zaca, retired soccer player Bongani Khumalo, reality TV star and media personality Moshe Ndiki, Savanna Comics Choice Award winner Celeste Ntuli, seasoned comedian and media personality Mpho Popps, and comedian Nina Hastie — all bringing flair to the affair.
An Evening of Laughter
Comedy took center stage as some of South Africa’s top comedians delivered performances that had the audience in stitches. The hotel’s sophisticated event spaces, designed to accommodate up to 500 guests , provided an intimate yet grand setting for these acts, ensuring every punchline resonated with the audience.
Savoring Savanna Neat
At the heart of the evening was Savanna’s Neat cider, celebrated for its crisp taste and smooth finish. Guests indulged in this premium beverage, which perfectly complemented the gala’s upscale atmosphere. The Houghton Hotel’s culinary team further enhanced the experience with gourmet pairings, showcasing the cider’s versatility and appeal.
Commenting on the brand’s latest play for the culture, Kayla Hendricks, Marketing Communication Manager for Savanna, shared:
“The Savanna Neat Gala presented an opportunity to create more than just a memorable night out — we wanted a cultural moment that says: South Africa does premium, fashion, culture in our own signature way. Savanna Neat is a premium crisp and dry cider, with notes of toasted oak and is stylishly laid-back. The Neat Gala was reflective of just that, celebrating the unique flavour that comes from blending the iconic innovative edge of Savanna Premium Cider and equally iconic cultural moves for a bold, elevated finish.”
The Houghton Hotel: The Epitome of Luxury
The choice of The Houghton Hotel as the venue was no coincidence. With its award-winning status as South Africa’s Leading Hotel , it embodies luxury and sophistication. From its state-of-the-art spa and wellness facilities to its fine dining establishments like Séjour and Nova Bistro , the hotel offers an unparalleled experience that resonated with the gala’s theme.
A Night to Remember
The Savanna Neat Gala 2025 was more than just an event; it was a celebration of style, humor, and refined taste. Set against the backdrop of The Houghton Hotel’s grandeur, it left an indelible mark on Johannesburg’s social scene, setting a new benchmark for events to come.
