The World’s Most Epic Freeride Showcase: DarkFest 2025
Words by Beka Stephan 
The world’s top freeriders returned to the aptly named Hellsend Dirt Compound in South Africa for DarkFest 2025 from April 7-12. This invitation-only event once again featured some of the biggest MTB jumps on the planet, with a stacked lineup including Rampage 2024 champion Robin Goomes, Vero Sandler, Vinny Armstrong, and Chelsea Kimball. Joining the women’s roster for the first time were Lucy Vaneesteren and Cami Nogueira, marking an exciting debut for both riders.
2025 also marked the fourth year that women have been included in DarkFest, further solidifying their place in the event’s high-stakes freeride scene. Fans can watch highlights of the event by checking out the rider’s instagram pages, like Chelsea Kimball’s epic highlight reel where she was voted Queen of Darkfest 2025. Keep an eye out for the riders that also scored the event’s very unique signature hairstyle.
Be sure to also read up on the women who took on Darkfest 2024 with style and shredding skills to match.
