THE Soweto Festival is bigger and better than ever. It takes place from September 24 to 27.

THE Soweto Festival is bigger and better than ever. It takes place from September 24 to 27.

Now in its fifth year, the event brings together business, community organisations and consumers to celebrate the sprawling township's richness and diversity.

Its aim is to contribute to the long-term development of Soweto, whose residents' spending power is more than R5billion though a quarter of it benefits residents.

This year's festival will take place in and around the Soweto Campus of the University of Johannesburg.

Visitors will be enthralled by kwaito artists, DJs , gumboot dancing, storytelling canoeing and boat racing.

For those who like having a quiet time and a chat, there will be a beer garden. And Chefs Arena is just the place for food lovers.

The water sports will comprise rowing and dragon boat racing with clubs from Emmarentia and Wemmer Pan in Johannesburg expected.

Lifestyle, fashion and culture will form part of the activities.

"The festival will place even more emphasis than in previous years on youth, fashion, interior decorating, health and beauty. This for the majority festival-goers," organisers said.

"The fashion shows, featuring local designers and models, have become a highlight of the festival and 2009 will not disappoint," they said.

There will be 300 stalls offering a range of goods and services.

A Youth Zone and Careers Expo will offer the younger generation information on careers, music, theatre and visual art.

The Soweto Country Club will host golf at Pimville Golf Course and the water sports which will take place at the Orlando dam.

Musicians include Ernie Smith, Shwi Nomtekhala, Jub Jub, Thembi Seete and Theo Kgosinkwe of Mafikizolo fame.