Cape Town International Jazz Festival new dates, bold new vision for Africa’s grandest music festival

THE highly anticipated Cape Town International Jazz Festival (CTIJF) returns to the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) on March 27 and 28, 2026 — but this time, the festival marks more than just a return.

- STAFF REPORTER

It signals the start of an exciting new chapter in the life of Africa's most celebrated music event.

Under the leadership of festival head, Shaakirah Adams, the festival is undergoing a powerful transformation — evolving into a yearlong platform that celebrates music, fosters talent, and drives lasting social and economic impact.

“The Cape Town International Jazz Festival must now become a movement — one that not only showcases great music but supports the people and communities behind it. It must be inclusive, African, developmental, and deeply impact-ful,” said Adams.

This new direction sees the CTIJF becoming a platform that extends far beyond its flagship weekend to embrace 12 months of programming, community engagement, and educational outreach. The March 2026 event will now serve as the culmination of a full music festival season, rather than the starting point.