
Braamfontein was the place to be this past weekend (Saturday, 22 March 2025) as Nike transformed De Beer Street into a DN8-fueled spectacle.
Nike didnโt just throw a partyโthey engineered an experience that kept the momentum going. From the curated venue themes to the electrifying lineup, the DN8 event proved that when Nike sets out to make a statement, they go all in.


THE DN8 TAKEOVER โ THREE STAGES, ONE EXPERIENCE
The event occupied three major venuesโMamakashaka, Kitcheners, and an underground hideaway that felt like a best-kept secretโeach with its own unique theme and energy. Attendees seamlessly hopped from one stage to another, fully immersed in a night where every corner offered something fresh.
Nike ensured the DN8 silhouette took center stage, weaving its branding into every element of the space. A massive red neon '8' greeted guests at the entrance, setting the tone for what lay inside. Once through the doors, DN8 branding pulsed from window projections, stage LEDs, vintage-stacked TV displays, and even a projector-lit feature wall. The entire venue was bathed in red light, reinforcing the signature aesthetic.


A SPACE DESIGNED FOR DISCOVERY
Nike took things a step further, ensuring that every step inside the venue was worth the exploration. Instead of just a typical stage-and-DJ setup, the brand crafted an immersive environment that elevated the experience.
Among the standout activations:
- Vintage-stacked TVs looping visuals of the DN8 silhouette and branding.
- Three distinct display installations showcasing the Nike Air Max DN8 in Black-Green Strike-Volt, and Black/Gym Red, drawing endless photos and videos.
Nike also broke away from the predictable by introducing a cinema space, screening The Alchemist starring DBN Gogo and Omagoqa. The film was presented in intimate group slots, creating a deeper connection with the narrative. Meanwhile, an exhibition space showcased the DN8โs local campaign, spotlighting imagery of emerging trailblazers.


THE HEART OF THE NIGHT โ THE MAIN STAGE
At the core of the event was the basement stage, an expansive, industrial space with an LED-illuminated setup drench****ed in deep red hues. Artist names lit up across the displays, setting the stage for an unforgettable lineup. Acts like Circles n Squares, DBN Gogo, Babalwa M, Mateki 2Shoes, and Shamiso delivered back-to-back performances that had the crowd in constant motionโfeet stomping, bodies swaying, and energy peaking with every drop.
Outside, a neon-lit walkway became an unexpected showstopper, drawing attendees in for countless photos and videosโa visual extension of the nightโs theme.

MORE THAN JUST ONE SOUND
The event didnโt stick to a single soundโit embraced the diversity of music.
Mamakashaka & Friends became a go-to destination, with Scottthegirl, Makhumalo, Deniece Marz, Lelowhatsgood B2B Babywhitz, and Julian Gomes leading an eclectic, high-energy lineup that kept the venue packed from start to finish.
Over at Kitcheners, hip-hopโs influence took center stage. 25K, Loatinover Pounds, Kwesta, and Blxckie turned the space into a lyrical battleground, offering a sharp contrast to the house and amapiano-heavy sets elsewhere.




A NIGHT TO REMEMBER
Thereโs only so much we can put into wordsโthis was one of those โyou had to be thereโ moments.
Attendees showed up dressed to impress, and, of course, the Air Max DN8 dominated the sneaker scene, spotted in Green, University Red, Red/Black, and Grey across the crowd.








Nike once again proved its ability to shake things up, creating a cultural moment that left an imprint on the city. This wasnโt just a partyโit was a statement, a celebration, and a reminder of why Nike remains a force in the game.