Jazz vibes takes over the Mother City

Cape Town is set to pulse with the sounds of jazz as a week-long programme of music, culture and creativity unfolds across the city, anchored by the return of the Cape Town International Jazz Festival.

Positioned as one of the continent’s premier live music events, the festival, widely known as Africa’s Grandest Gathering, is expected to draw thousands of attendees from across South Africa and abroad, while delivering a significant boost to the local economy and hospitality sector.

This year’s programme extends beyond the traditional festival format, transforming the inner city into a dynamic, walkable jazz stage through a mix of free public events, pop-up performances, and curated cultural experiences.

Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security, JP Smith, said the City’s support reflects a broader commitment to accessible cultural experiences.

“The Cape Town International Jazz Festival remains one of the continent’s premier live music events. Last year, it attracted over 16 000 attendees from across South Africa and more than 20 other countries, injecting millions into the local economy.

“The Free Concert provides an inclusive musical experience for those who aren’t able to attend the main festival. The City’s support for these events reflects its commitment to enabling inclusive, accessible and world-class experiences,” he said.

A key highlight is the return of the free jazz concert at Greenmarket Square on Wednesday, March 25, a long-standing feature of the festival that continues to draw large public audiences. The open-air event offers residents and visitors a rare opportunity to experience live performances in one of the city’s most historic public spaces without the barrier of ticket costs.

This year’s line-up includes Joneca, Zolani Mahola, Cameron Ward, Justin-Lee, Zoe Madinga and Shiela E. & The E-Train. The concert starts at 6pm, with gates opening at 4pm.

Beyond entertainment, the free concert plays a role in community upliftment, creating employment opportunities, supporting local talent and providing practical experience for emerging professionals in the events and creative industries.

The week culminates in the flagship two-night festival at the Cape Town International Convention Centre on Friday, March 27 and Saturday, March 28. Featuring more than 30 international and local artists, the event will deliver multi-stage performances spanning jazz, soul, Afro-fusion and genre-blending sounds.

Each evening offers eight hours of live music, running from 6pm until 2am, with doors opening at 4pm.

City officials have advised that several road closures will be in effect around Greenmarket Square and the central city to accommodate the events, with residents and motorists urged to plan accordingly.