CoCT keeps Jazz spirit alive as host City sponsor of CTIJF
Since its launch in 2000, the Cape Town International Jazz Festival has grown into one of the most significant music events on the continent, bringing together global jazz legends, contemporary performers and emerging South African talent.
Image: Supplied
Cape Town will once again host one of Africa’s biggest music events later this month, with the City continuing its long-standing role as host city sponsor of the Cape Town International Jazz Festival.
The festival returns for its 23rd edition from March 27 to March 28 at the Cape Town International Convention Centre, bringing two nights of live performances across multiple stages.
Since its launch in 2000, the Cape Town International Jazz Festival has grown from a local jazz event into one of the continent’s most prominent music festivals, expanding its programme beyond traditional jazz to include Afro-fusion, soul and R&B alongside global contemporary sounds.
Cape Town mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis said the partnership with the festival reflects the city’s commitment to supporting arts, culture and tourism.
“We are thrilled to once again welcome the Cape Town International Jazz Festival to our beautiful city. Now in its 23rd edition, this iconic event has become one of our most beloved and well-attended festivals – and one of the best jazz events on the entire continent – showcasing the incredible vibrancy and diversity of Cape Town through its ever-expanding music offerings,” he said.
Hill-Lewis said the programme includes the two festival days at the CTICC as well as the traditional free concert at Greenmarket Square.
“From the two festival days at the CTICC to the free concert at Greenmarket Square, there really is something for everyone. I invite all Capetonians to come and immerse themselves in the magic of live music. Wishing all the musicians and music fans a fantastic festival,” he said.
Cape Town mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis said the partnership reflects the city’s commitment to supporting arts, culture and tourism.
Image: File
Over the years, the festival has hosted internationally acclaimed artists including Herbie Hancock, Hugh Masekela, Erykah Badu, Jamie Cullum and The Roots, helping cement its reputation on the global jazz calendar.
Beyond the headline performances, the festival also runs development initiatives aimed at supporting emerging South African musicians. These include workshops, masterclasses and outreach programmes designed to give young artists, particularly from township communities, access to professional platforms and industry exposure.
The event also brings a tourism and economic boost to the Western Cape each year, attracting thousands of visitors and generating business for hotels, restaurants, transport providers and small enterprises. Organisers say the festival also creates thousands of seasonal and part-time job opportunities.
As part of the City’s support, the annual free pre-festival concert at Greenmarket Square will take place on March 25, turning the historic public square into an open-air music venue for residents and visitors.
Tickets for the 2026 Cape Town International Jazz Festival are available through Ticketmaster. Organisers have encouraged festivalgoers to buy early as demand is expected to be high.