From Johannesburg to Cape Town, here are three jazz festivals bringing world-class performances and vibrant live music to South Africa this March.
By Bulelwa Hoala
March is an exciting month for jazz lovers in South Africa, with several world-class festivals taking place across Johannesburg and Cape Town. From outdoor concerts to internationally renowned performances, music fans will experience only the best in live jazz and other genres.
Here are three jazz festivals happening this March that deserve a spot on your calendar.
1. Jazz in the Lights
Johannesburg – 21 March 2026
The Johannesburg Zoo will come alive on Saturday, 21 March, when the popular Jazz in the Lights festival returns.
This family-friendly event offers a unique experience where visitors can enjoy live jazz performances while exploring the zoo and interacting with the animals.
The lineup features a mix of local and international artists, including Maria João, Andile Yenana, Jimmy Dludlu, Brenda Mtambo, Msaki, Ayanda Sikade and Xhanti Nokwali, among others.
Ticket prices:
- R100 – Children under 12
- R200 – Pensioners
- R300 – Adults
- R1500 – VIP
Tickets are available via Webtickets, and more information can be found on the Arts Alive Joburg website.
2. Cape Town International Jazz Festival
Cape Town – 27–28 March 2026
Now in its 23rd year, the Cape Town International Jazz Festival returns to the Cape Town International Convention Centre for two nights of world-class music.
The festival will feature artists from more than 10 countries, including Grammy-winning British musician Jacob Collier, South African jazz legend Abdullah Ibrahim, and drummer Yussef Dayes with The Yussef Dayes Experience.
Local talent will also take centre stage, including Nduduzo Makhathini, Sipho “Hotstix” Mabuse, and amapiano duo DJ Maphorisa and Kabza De Small, also known as the Scorpion Kings.
Ticket prices:
- Day pass: R1350
- Weekend pass: R2100
- VIP packages: From R6320 to R12 645
VIP tickets include access to all stages, a gourmet buffet dining experience, barista coffee bars and live streaming from festival stages.
Tickets are available via Ticketmaster.
3. Montreux Jazz Festival Franschhoek
Franschhoek – 27–29 March 2026
Following the legendary jazz festival held on Lake Geneva, the Montreux Jazz Festival is making its African debut in Franschhoek.
Set in the scenic Franschhoek Valley, the festival blends music, food, art and wine into a multi-day cultural experience.
The event features two stages (The Arches Main Stage and The Jazz Village) connected by a walking route known as the Montreux Mile, allowing festival-goers to explore the village between performances.
Headliners include legendary Malian singer Salif Keita, American jazz vocalist Stacey Kent, Grammy-winning jazz artist Robert Glasper with special guest Bilal, and British pop band Wet Wet Wet.
South African performers include Mandisi Dyantyis, Madala Kunene, Sibusile Xaba, Thandiswa Mazwai, Kyle Shepherd, and Msaki alongside Jesse Clegg.
Ticket prices:
Day passes start at around R2250.
More information is available on the festival’s official website.
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