Now in its 23nd edition, the Cape Town International Jazz Festival, known as Africa’s Grandest Gathering, is taking place over two days in March 2026.
One of the largest jazz festivals in Africa, the event is a jaw-dropping celebration of music that’s set to shatter boundaries, ignite your senses, and redefine what you thought was possible in the world of jazz. Here’s everything you need to know about the festival.
Artists Announced for Cape Town International Jazz Festival
The 2026 lineup brings together a powerful mix of global excellence and homegrown talent. Leading the international contingent are genre-defying multi-instrumentalist and Grammy-winner Jacob Collier, alongside legendary jazz fusion group Yellowjackets, both promising world-class performances.
Flying the South African flag is iconic drummer and producer Sipho “Hotstix” Mabuse, joined by a strong lineup of local favourites including the soulful Rorisang Sechile, acclaimed singer-songwriter Jabulile Majola, dynamic collective Manana, and celebrated jazz pianist Nduduzo Makhatini. Together, the lineup reflects a rich blend of innovation, legacy and contemporary South African sound.
The full lineup is available on the website.
How to Book Tickets to the Festival
A variety of artists will be performing at the Cape Town International Jazz Festival, across multiple different stages at the Cape Town International Convention Centre. This is the 23nd edition of the festival – a testament to the staying power of jazz and the excitement it brings.
Tickets to the festival, as well as hospitality tickets, are available on Ticketmaster
Cost: R1350 (day pass) | R2100 (weekend pass)
When: 27 – 28 March 2026
Where: Cape Town International Convention Centre 1
Website: capetownjazzfest.com
Facebook: CTJazzFest
Instagram: @officialcapetownjazzfestival