Its a new year, Covid restrictions have eased, our curfew has been removed and what better way to celebrate than at a music festival. Before Covid hit our shores South Africa boasted a huge selection of Festivals almost every weekend. Unfortunaley now days that calander is much much smaller so make sure you don’t miss one. We have created a list of all the must-see festivals in the country. Drink, dance, and have fun with friends and strangers at the best festivals in South Africa. From progressive psytrance music to Hardcore punk or jivy jazz. There is something for everyone on this list. So, you can dance and party throughout the year on spectacular terrains with stunning decorations.

Colorful music stage with people dancing

Kirstenbosch Summer Sunset Concerts

Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens is known for its wide variety in plants and spectacular views. However, on sunny Sunday afternoons, the garden transforms into a picknick place with live local and international artists. Bring your picknick basket or pre-order one at the teahouse located in the garden and start relaxing. The music varies from jazz to rock and hip-hop. So, there will be music for all ages, sit back and enjoy the picknick with live music.

Date: Every Sunday Afternoon from November 2021 to March 2022

Price: R1700-435, depends on artists

Location: Cape Town

people sitting in a field

Origin – Emergence

Origin is located in the breathtaking valley on the Elandskloof farm. Origin celebrates the psychedelic art, music, and culture through spectacular decorations and pumping music. A percentage of the profit is donated to development projects as an appreciation for life. The main stage hosts a marvelous dance floor with the best psychedelic music. The other stages range from deep house, techno, trance, and local arts.

Date: 28 January – 30 January

Price: R1350

Location: Elandskloof Farm, 125 km from Cape Town.

people dancing

Up the Creek

The absolute best outdoor festival experience. Up the Creek is located in a long-standing river camp near Swellendam. And the ”’dance floors”” are located in the water, which makes it a truly unique festival. Make sure to bring your lilo (air mattress) and float while celebrating the art of South African musicians. A campsite is available to rest, but for the rest of the time, you will be in the water. There is also a land stage, so you can dance instead of splash.

Date: To Be Advised

Price: To Be Advised

Location: Swellendam

people on air mattresses in a river

Cape Town Carnival

Cape town Carnival is slightly different this year. There will be five Carnival Hubs around the city and each will put on five 30 minute shows. but your tickets at R10 per show and make your way around the city to the different locations. The hubs are Hatfield street Hub, SA Museum Hub, National Gallery Hub, Green Market Hub and Heritage Square Hub.

Date: 19 March

Price: R10

Location:  5 locations around Cape Town City.

AfrikaBurn

AfrikaBurn is an open and empty area, where creativity runs free. You can build your own wooden structures and when the time is over. You can burn and celebrate it. This is an extraordinary festival, and you don’t have to be a scientist or architect. Everyone is welcome to build their imagination.

Date: 25 April – 1 May

Price: From R299

Location: Tankwa Karoo, Northern Cape

man standing in front of a burning structure

Rocking the Daisies

The largest festival in Cape Town returns for its 14th edition. Rocking the Daisies takes place in the Cloof Wine Estate, this excellent wine is served at the festival. And this year double the number of bars is available on site. The festival is for everyone with a wide range of music from rap to rock and hip-hop, Rocking the daisies makes sure everybody has a blast.

Date: To Be Advised

Price: To Be Advised

Location: Cape Town

People Dancing