As late summer begins to soften into autumn, South Africa’s events calendar leans into long, golden evenings and the energy of a Human Rights Day long weekend.
Johannesburg Zoo/CLS DNA/Wikimedia Commons
Across the country, you’ll find everything from beachside music gatherings and open-air jazz to intimate small-town festivals and world-class sporting events. Whether you’re staying local or planning a last-minute escape, here’s where to go and what to book.
Move Afrika: Pretoria (feat. Doja Cat)
📍 SunBet Arena, Pretoria
📅 20 March 2026
A major highlight on the continent’s live music calendar, Move Afrika lands in Pretoria with global headliner Doja Cat alongside a curated lineup of African talent. Powered by Global Citizen, the event blends entertainment with impact, making it more than just a concert. Expect high production value, chart-topping hits and a crowd that spans generations.
🔗 More info: https://www.bigconcerts.co.za/
Jazz in the Lights
📍 Johannesburg Zoo, Johannesburg
📅 21 March 2026
One of Joburg’s most atmospheric outdoor concerts returns, transforming the zoo into a lantern-lit jazz venue. Bring a picnic blanket and settle in for an evening of smooth, contemporary and classic jazz performed by some of the country’s finest musicians. It’s relaxed, social and ideal for a long-weekend night out.
🔗 More info: https://www.webtickets.co.za/
Corona Sunsets Festival
📍 Clifton / The Glen Country Club, Cape Town
📅 21 March 2026
Set against the Atlantic coastline, this beach-meets-lifestyle festival blends electronic and Afro-house sounds with panoramic sunset views. With artists like Zakes Bantwini and Sun-El Musician on the lineup, it’s as much about the music as it is about the atmosphere. Expect barefoot dancing, curated food stalls and a stylish crowd.
🔗 More info: https://www.musicinafrica.net/
Wakkerstroom Music Festival
📍 Wakkerstroom, Mpumalanga
📅 20–22 March 2026
For a slower, more intimate experience, this long-running festival in one of South Africa’s most charming small towns offers a mix of classical, jazz and contemporary performances. Venues range from churches to community halls, giving each performance a distinct sense of place. It’s a weekend that pairs well with birding, walking trails and crisp Highveld air.
🔗 More info: https://www.facebook.com/
Makoro Music Festival
📍 Gauteng (various venues)
📅 21 March 2026
A vibrant celebration of live music and dance culture, Makoro brings together a diverse lineup of local and international performers. Expect high-energy sets, a youthful crowd and a focus on emerging sounds alongside established acts.
🔗 More info: https://www.facebook.com/
Thandiswa Mazwai – 50th Birthday Tour
📍 Various cities nationwide
📅 20 March 2026 (select dates)
Marking a milestone birthday, Thandiswa Mazwai takes to the stage with a powerful retrospective of her career. Known for blending soul, jazz and Afro-futurist influences, her live performances are as thought-provoking as they are musically rich. A must for fans of South African music heritage.
🔗 More info: https://www.webtickets.co.za/
Absa Cape Epic (final stages)
📍 Western Cape (various routes)
📅 20–22 March 2026
Dubbed the “Tour de France of mountain biking,” the Absa Cape Epic reaches its final stages this weekend. Elite riders from around the world tackle punishing terrain across the Western Cape, with spectators able to catch the action at key points along the route.
🔗 More info: https://www.cape-epic.com/
Umsinga Folk & Indigenous Music Festival
📍 Umsinga, KwaZulu-Natal
📅 21 March 2026
Rooted in tradition, this festival celebrates indigenous music and storytelling, bringing together local performers and cultural custodians. It’s a meaningful way to experience South Africa’s living heritage, especially fitting over the Human Rights Day weekend.
🔗 More info: https://www.instagram.com/
Follow us on social media for more travel news, inspiration, and guides. You can also tag us to be featured.
TikTok | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter
ALSO READ:
