Cape Town International Jazz Festival 2026
October 14, 2024
Cape Town International Jazz Festival 2026
27 β 28 March 2026
Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC)
Africa's Grandest Gathering returns. We've compiled everything you need to know about the 23rd Cape Town International Jazz Festival β from the confirmed lineup and ticket options to travel tips and venue details. Whether you're a seasoned festino or attending for the first time, this is your starting point for two unforgettable days of world-class music in the Mother City.
Ranked as the fourth largest jazz festival in the world and the largest in Africa, CTIJF 2026 arrives with a bold new visual identity and a first-wave lineup that signals ambition, confidence, and global reach.
Essential Information
The festival takes place at the CTICC, an iconic venue in the heart of Cape Town that has hosted the event since 2004. With four stages running simultaneously, the weekend offers a range of genres and styles β from traditional jazz and fusion to Afro-soul, R&B, and contemporary electronic sounds.
π΅ Meet the Artists: Watch & Listen
Get a taste of what's in store at CTIJF 2026. These performances showcase the incredible range of talent heading to Cape Town this March.
Jacob Collier
Headliner β’ UKListen for: Collier's signature multi-layered harmonies and virtuosic multi-instrumental approach. Seven-time Grammy winner making his South African debut.
Nduduzo Makhathini
SA IconListen for: Spiritually rooted jazz from this Blue Note artist and Zulu healer. Presenting "An Ongoing Rehearsal: Our-Ke(s)tra" with special guests.
Scorpion Kings
AmapianoListen for: The log drum basslines and piano-driven grooves that made DJ Maphorisa & Kabza De Small global Amapiano pioneers β captured in a high-energy live session mix.
Yellowjackets
Jazz Fusion β’ USAListen for: Four decades of jazz fusion mastery β tight grooves, bright melodies, and the kind of interplay that only legends can deliver.
Sipho "Hotstix" Mabuse
SA LegendListen for: Decades of Afro-soul and pop innovation from one of South Africa's most iconic musical figures β delivered with warmth and groove.
BCUC
Afro-Punk β’ SAListen for: Raw, rhythm-driven energy from this powerful Soweto collective blending traditional and contemporary sounds.
2026 Artist Lineup
The first waves of artists have been announced, blending international heavyweights with South African legends and rising stars. More names are being revealed regularly β follow the festival's social channels for updates.
I would describe the line-up as critically acclaimed, global, virtuosic, proudly African, and full of live performers who will leave audiences inspired. Intentional and diverse β I'm so excited to see how audiences curate their own festival!
Venue & Stages
The CTICC is located in the heart of Cape Town's Foreshore district, making it easily accessible from most parts of the city. Four stages run simultaneously throughout the festival, each with its own character and programming.
General admission tickets provide access to three of the four stages (Kippies, Manenberg, and Moses Molelekwa). The Rosies/Emerald stage features more traditional and acoustic jazz performances with a small surcharge of approximately R30 per show.
Tickets & Pricing
Tickets are available through Ticketmaster South Africa. Book early β accommodation and tickets sell quickly for one of Cape Town's busiest weekends.
VIP and hospitality packages are also available through the official CTIJF website, offering gourmet dining, premium beverages, and dedicated viewing areas. Travel packages including accommodation and transfers start from R5,950 per person sharing.
Buy Tickets on Ticketmaster βGetting There & Practical Information
By Air
Cape Town International Airport is approximately 20 minutes from the CTICC. Uber, Bolt, and airport shuttles are readily available. Book accommodation early as hotels near the venue fill quickly during the festival weekend.
Local Transport
The MyCiTi bus service connects the Civic Centre station to the CTICC. Rideshare apps (Uber, Bolt) are widely used. Limited parking is available at the venue.
Age Restriction
No children under the age of 10 are permitted at the venue. All attendees may be subject to security checks upon entry.
Ticket Limit
Maximum 10 tickets per person/credit card. The Ticketmaster Fan Guarantee allows cancellation up to 60 days before the event.
Beyond the Main Event
The CTIJF extends beyond the March weekend with a series of lead-up events and experiences:
Jazzy Sundowner Sessions
A partnership with Van Ryn's Distillery offering intimate celebrations of live music in the Cape Winelands. Check the CTIJF website for upcoming sessions.
Jazz Rising
Free live music showcases at Grand Africa CafΓ© & Beach, celebrating South Africa's emerging jazz talent in an iconic seaside setting.
A11 x CTIJF Events
Curated music experiences honouring the legacy of jazz while engaging contemporary audiences. Events scheduled for 15 February and 21 March 2026.
Travel Packages
Tourvest Destination Management offers packages combining tickets with accommodation, transfers, and cultural experiences including township music heritage tours.
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