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The countdown is on! The 57th Ballito Pro Presented by O'Neill has entered its thrilling final week, with world-class surfing action building towards Sunday's Championship Finals at Willard Beach, KwaDukuza.

As the world's best surfers battle it out for Challenger Series glory, the festival programme shifts into top gear with live music, sporting events, family entertainment and plenty to enjoy both on and off the beach.

The Ballito Pro Music Concerts Presented by Corona take centre stage at Salt Rock Main Beach this week. On Thursday, 16 July (4.30pm–10.30pm), Afro-house and electronic music fans can enjoy performances by Mörda (Murdah Bongz), DJ Merlon, Blanco Nero, Asvnte, Jay Sbu and the winner of the Battle of the DJs Competition. On Friday, 17 July (4pm–11.30pm), the line-up shifts to rock and pop with Booshle G, The Saxby Twins, Veranda Panda, Zebra, Phil Taylor Band, Matt Gardiner and Bloodbrother, promising an unforgettable beachfront finale.

Thursday also sees the debut of the Surf & Turf Challenge, where professional surfers team up with former Bafana Bafana stars in a unique relay event celebrating the spirit of the FIFA World Cup.

Throughout the week, visitors can also enjoy the Corona Sunset Sessions, the bustling Retail Village, delicious food vendors, beach volleyball and soccer, yoga and Pilates sessions, the SeaHer women's surf activation, Red Bull Brian Capper Bike Displays, beach rugby and judo, the Ballito Arts Showcase, children's entertainment with Jive With Jen, and a variety of local tourism experiences.

The festival concludes on Saturday, 18 July, with 67 Minutes for the Ocean, a special Mandela Day beach clean-up. Festivalgoers are invited to dedicate 67 minutes to cleaning Ballito's beaches by collecting litter, ghost fishing gear and microplastics, including nurdles using Mermaid Tear Catchers. Participants can also enjoy prize activations throughout the clean-up, contribute to the live Litter4Tokens impact tally, and stand a chance to win fantastic prizes while helping protect the coastline.

Planning to spend the weekend in Ballito? Discover great places to eat before or after the action at https://www.restaurants.co.za/kwazulu-natal/ballito

For more information about the festival, visit www.theballitopro.com.