The Social Intifada will host its third annual Palestine Youth & Family Market from 7 to 9 August at Emmarentia Primary School in Johannesburg, bringing together Palestinian-owned businesses, cultural exhibitions, educational activities and family entertainment over three days.
Following the success of its previous markets in 2024 and 2025, the annual event has grown into one of Johannesburg’s largest gatherings of Palestinian-owned businesses under one roof.
Beyond providing a platform for local Muslim and Palestinian entrepreneurs to showcase and sell their products, the initiative also serves a humanitarian purpose. Previous markets have raised funds through donations and fundraising drives to support humanitarian and solidarity initiatives for Palestinians, while helping local businesses connect with new customers.
Organisers have also used the event to raise awareness about Palestine through educational and cultural activities designed to engage visitors of all ages.
This year’s market will begin on Friday evening, 7 August, with an outdoor screening of Palestine 36, before the main market opens on Saturday 8 August and continues through Sunday 9 August.
A major highlight of the 2026 event will be the Palestine Exhibition, an immersive experience aimed at introducing visitors to Palestinian history, heritage and culture while exploring the realities faced by its people. The exhibition will feature visual displays, historical information and interactive storytelling.
Families will also be able to enjoy a range of activities throughout the weekend. Children can take part in Palestine-themed ceramic painting, canvas painting, colouring activities and jumping castles, while gaming enthusiasts can compete in the Palestinian Cup, an EA SPORTS FC tournament on PS5.
The programme also includes a Tatreez workshop, giving girls and women the opportunity to learn the traditional Palestinian art of embroidery and discover the stories and symbolism woven into its distinctive patterns.
Visitors can explore a vibrant marketplace featuring food vendors, lifestyle products and a diverse range of local and Palestinian-owned businesses. A series of panel discussions will also examine themes including faith, culture, identity and current issues affecting Palestine.
According to the organisers, the event aims to bring together people from all backgrounds to celebrate Palestinian culture, support local businesses and promote learning, dialogue and community engagement.
The Palestine Youth & Family Market will take place from 7 to 9 August at Emmarentia Primary School in Johannesburg. Entry costs R30 for adults, while children under the age of 16 will be admitted free of charge.
