Unforgettable summer events lined up in Cape Town for early 2026
The Kirstenbosch Summer Concert officially kicked off at Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens
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The Kirstenbosch Summer Sunset Concerts return with internationally-acclaimed artists, offering breathtaking afternoons of music against the backdrop of Table Mountain.
The season began with a bang on 4 January, as Cape Town’s own global electronic stars, Goldfish, lit up the stage.
On 11 January, audiences can expect goosebumps as Belinda Davids delivers her world-renowned tribute to Whitney Houston, bringing the legendary singer’s hits to life. Kirstenbosch is also thrilled to welcome UK star Calum Scott on 14 January, though tickets for this show have already sold out.
Cape Town is kicking off 2026 in spectacular style with a star-studded programme of music, theatre, and performance.
From iconic outdoor concerts at Kirstenbosch to the ever-popular Maynardville Open-Air Festival, the city promises a summer of unforgettable experiences for music and arts lovers alike.
Sunday sessions continue on 18 January with a double-bill of Afro-pop and soulful R&B. South African icons Freshlyground and new-age star Manana promise an afternoon of uplifting rhythms.
To close out the month, Niger-based guitar virtuoso Bombino will perform on 25 January, delivering hypnotic Tuareg rhythms and masterful desert blues.
“The Summer Sunset Concerts are about connection, joy and the beauty of experiencing art in harmony with nature,” said Sarah Struys, Events and Tourism Manager for Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden. “This year’s line-up is one of our most exciting ever, with something for everyone.”
Maynardville open air theatre will host an array of shows
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Just down the road, the Maynardville Open-Air Festival offers another rich array of performances.
While best known for its annual Shakespeare play celebrating its 70th year in 2026 the festival now also features ballet, opera, orchestral and classical concerts, jazz, blues, swing, and show tunes. Most shows are one-off events or run for only two nights, and many sell out weeks in advance.
The 2026 Maynardville season begins on 13 January with Shades of Blue, featuring Elna van der Merwe on piano, Liesl Stoltz on flute, Dylan Tabisher on drums and marimba, Roxane Steffen on double bass, and David Cyster on clarinet. Jazz fans can enjoy Jazz in the Park on 14–15 January, with classics like My Funny Valentine, Take Five, and Summertime.
The Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra performs on 16 and 17 January, while ballet returns with Cape Ballet Africa’s Giselle (20–21 January) and Cape Town City Ballet’s Swingtime (23–24 January).
Other highlights include The Charl du Plessis Trio on 8 February, Cape Town Opera’s Gershwin in the Park on 15 February, and The Great American Songbook on 22 February and 1 March, featuring vocalists Katlego Maboe, Tankiso Mamabolo, and Amy Campbell.
Maynardville’s Shakespeare play this year is the romantic comedy Twelfth Night, running from 30 January to 8 March, styled in the glamour of the Italian Dolce Vita. Audiences can enhance their experience with VIP dinner options at the Food Market, offering premier seating, parking, and proximity to the bar.
With Kirstenbosch and Maynardville presenting some of the most anticipated performances of the summer, ticket-holders are advised to book early to avoid disappointment.
tracy-lynn.ruiters@inl.co.za