Franschhoek Makes History as First African Host of the International Montreux Jazz Festival

The Franschhoek Wine Valley is set to make history as the first African destination of the legendary Montreux Jazz Festival. Since its inception in 1967, the festival has been a cultural cornerstone in the global music industry, held in the picturesque town of Montreux Switzerland, celebrated for its diverse musical line-up spanning jazz, blues, pop, and rock.

Now, it will bring its renowned expertise and unparalleled access to top-tier artists to the heart of the Cape Winelands. Details for this landmark event will be finalised in late 2025, paving the way for its highly anticipated debut in March 2026.

Emerging South African Talent Meets The World’s Top International Artists

Following an inspiring first visit to South Africa in January, during which the festival planning committee explored and scouted venues in Franschhoek, Montreux Jazz Festival organizers have confirmed the valley as the ideal location for their first festival in Africa in 2026. This announcement brings significant benefits to the region’s tourism industry, drawing international attention, creating local job opportunities, and delivering a remarkable celebration of the arts.

Mark Goedvolk, Founder of MJF Franschhoek, said that hosting the Festival in Franschhoek offers a unique opportunity to bridge cultural divides and create meaningful connections between emerging South African artists and the world’s top international artists and music industry leaders.

This new collaboration marks a historic moment as the first-ever African edition of our festival, said Mathieu Jaton, CEO of Montreux Jazz Festival.

In addition, the festival will partner with the Uncorked Music Academy at the local High School, reinforcing its commitment to education and cultural enrichment in the region. This collaboration resonates deeply with the mission of the Montreux Jazz Artists Foundation (MJAF)— a recognised non-profit dedicated to supporting emerging artists through talent-development programs and fostering musical exchange.

The Montreux Jazz Stage Has Hosted Legends in the Music Industry

The Montreux Jazz Festival is renowned for its rich history and stunning venue on the shores of Lake Geneva, attracting nearly 250,000 music lovers each year. Its legacy includes iconic performances by music legends such as Prince, B.B. King, Johnny Cash, and Stevie Wonder, among many others. For almost 60 years, this legendary event has brought its unparalleled ambiance and line-up to cities around the globe, from Miami, Tokyo and Rio de Janeiro.

Now, Franschhoek proudly joins this prestigious list, marking a monumental moment as the festival’s first-ever African venue, celebrating the synergy and unique blend of stunning natural landscapes and warm hospitality that exists between Montreux and Franschhoek.

Help Make This Event Iconic

Franschhoek Tourism welcomes proposals from interested partners across various categories, from headline sponsors to media collaborators. Those interested in partnership opportunities are encouraged to reach out to Franschhoek Tourism CEO, Ruth McCourt. Additional details about this landmark event will be shared in due course. For further event information, please contact [email protected]