How can you watch DStv Premium for free this November? Here’s everything about the 30th anniversary Open Time!
DStv 2025: Comparing subscription prices and packages in Nigeria and South Africa.
In celebration of DStv’s 30th anniversary, MultiChoice is reigniting nostalgia with the return of Open Time — a special weekend when all decoder users will enjoy full access to DStv Premium channels at no extra cost. The event runs from 7–9 November 2025, marking a significant milestone in South African television history.
The Open Time campaign, which coincides with a weekend packed with major sporting action, offers a blend of nostalgia and innovation. Subscribers can look forward to the Springboks’ showdown with France, the Manchester City vs Liverpool clash, and the high-octane Brazilian Grand Prix — all available to every active decoder customer.
Iconic Faces Return to Celebrate 30 Years of DStv
Adding to the excitement, three beloved television personalities — Ashley Hayden, Scot Scott, and Doreen Morris — are returning to screens for the celebration. The trio became household names during M-Net’s early Open Time days in the 1990s, when subscription TV was just beginning to transform South African entertainment.
“DStv has grown up alongside its viewers,” said Byron du Plessis, CEO of SA PayTV at MultiChoice (now a Canal+ company). “For three decades, we’ve been part of South Africans’ homes, their weekends, and their memories.”
According to Du Plessis, bringing back Open Time is both a celebration and a strategy — a move to “reignite the DStv brand and make world-class entertainment more accessible.”
Decoder Prices Slashed and Exclusive Perks Unveiled
As part of the anniversary festivities, MultiChoice is introducing significant decoder price cuts starting 1 November 2025 — with prices dropping 30% in retail outlets and over 40% via the new online DStv Store.
Customers can get the HD Decoder for R299 (or R699 with installation) through the DStv Store, while retail buyers can grab one for R399 (or R899 installed).
Beyond discounts, DStv Premium subscribers will enjoy a wave of new benefits — including two extra all-device streams (raising the total to four) available through November and December. A newly introduced Premium concierge service also promises express customer support and personalized assistance.
The DStv Rewards program is also expanding, offering more incentives such as free BoxOffice rentals, invitations to exclusive events, VIP sports experiences, celebrity meet-and-greets, and even luxury travel giveaways.
A Nostalgic Return to Television’s Golden Era
When DStv launched in 1995, Open Time was the gateway that introduced South Africans to the world of pay television. Every evening, anchors like Hayden, Scott, and Morris would welcome viewers and announce the start and end of the free viewing period — a daily ritual that became part of the country’s shared TV culture.
For the returning presenters, being part of the 30th anniversary celebration has been deeply emotional.
Ashley Hayden recalls, “I still remember my first morning on TV — M-Net had just started showing morning movies, and everyone wanted a decoder. It was the start of something magical.”
For Scot Scott, it’s a reminder of how much the industry has evolved. “We wrote our own scripts, styled ourselves, and worked without an autocue. It was raw and exciting,” he said.
Former presenter and producer Doreen Morris called the revival “a lovely way to give back to loyal viewers,” noting that it allows long-time subscribers on lower packages to “enjoy Premium experiences they may have missed.”
Free Premium Access — How to Join
The Open Time weekend runs from 00:01 on Friday, 7 November to 23:59 on Sunday, 9 November 2025, and is open to all active DStv satellite customers in South Africa. The offer does not apply to streaming users.
To enjoy free Premium access, subscribers simply need to stay connected or reconnect before the second weekend in November.
With Canal+ now fully owning MultiChoice following a recent acquisition, the Open Time revival symbolizes a fresh chapter — one that honors DStv’s past while setting the tone for its future.
FAQ
What is DStv Open Time?
Open Time is a special period where all DStv decoder subscribers can enjoy full Premium access at no additional cost.
When will Open Time happen?
It runs from 7–9 November 2025, as part of DStv’s 30th anniversary celebrations.
Who can participate?
Only active DStv satellite customers in South Africa are eligible. The promotion does not include streaming users.
What channels are available during Open Time?
All DStv Premium channels — including sports, movies, and entertainment — will be open for viewing.
Are there other anniversary offers?
Yes. Decoder prices have been cut by up to 40%, and Premium customers receive new rewards and benefits, including extra streams and concierge services.