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 didnโ€™t just throw a partyโ€”they 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 venuesโ€”Mamakashaka, Kitcheners, and an underground hideaway that felt like a best-kept secretโ€”each 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 DN8โ€™s 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 motionโ€”feet 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 videosโ€”a visual extension of the nightโ€™s theme.

MORE THAN JUST ONE SOUND

The event didnโ€™t stick to a single soundโ€”it 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-hopโ€™s 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

Thereโ€™s only so much we can put into wordsโ€”this was one of those โ€œyou 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 wasnโ€™t just a partyโ€”it was a statement, a celebration, and a reminder of why Nike remains a force in the game.

 


 

Share your thoughts, drop your comments below & Join the conversation, ourย Twitterย orย Facebook

 

 

(Visited 2,151 times, 1 visits today)