Award-winning songstress Zoë Modiga was on the Cape Town International Jazz Festival line-up last year. PICTURE: Ian Landsberg/ Independent Media
Save the date for Africa’s grandest gathering, which returns with a spectacular line-up, world-first collaborations, a free concert, and more.
The iconic Cape Town International Jazz Festival (CTIJF) is set to make an unforgettable return on Friday and Saturday April 25 and 26 this year at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC).
Widely celebrated as “Africa's Grandest Gathering”, this year's festival promises an even bigger and more exhilarating experience, featuring over 30 world-class artists and an exclusive world-first musical collaboration that will captivate music lovers across the globe.
Shaakira Adams, the newly appointed head of the CTIJF, expressed her excitement: “It’s an incredible honour to lead this dynamic team in bringing another unforgettable festival to life.
“This year’s line-up has been carefully curated to reflect our diverse audience, ensuring there is something for everyone to enjoy. The festival also coincides with Freedom Day on April 27, making it a fitting celebration of the nation's hard-fought freedom that has opened South African music to the international stage and allowed the country to showcase its best talent.”
Since its inception in 2000, the CTIJF has established itself as one of the premier music festivals on the African continent. Held annually, it transforms Cape Town into a vibrant hub of musical creativity and cultural celebration, drawing thousands of local and international visitors.
The CTIJF isn’t just about music – it's a significant economic driver for the Western Cape. According to research conducted by North West University's Tourism Research in Economics, Environs and Society unit, the 2024 festival generated approximately R119 million in economic activity while creating between 444 and 1 200 jobs in the region. This includes employment in event management, technical production, security, catering, and hospitality services, reaffirming the festival’s impact on both the cultural and economic landscape of Cape Town.
The 2025 edition is set to raise the bar with several exciting additions:
A World-First Collaboration: A never-before-seen musical performance that will be revealed closer to the festival date.
Food Truck Valley: A brand-new culinary experience featuring a diverse range of local and international flavours to tantalise festival-goers.
Exclusive Hospitality Lounges: Luxurious spaces designed for corporate clients and discerning guests to enjoy the festival in style.
The much-anticipated free concert returns on the eve of the festival, allowing locals to experience world-class jazz without cost, reinforcing the festival's commitment to accessibility and community spirit.
Additionally, the CTIJF Masterclasses will continue to inspire the next generation of artists. Featuring both local and international musicians, these workshops offer invaluable learning experiences for aspiring talent and jazz enthusiasts alike.
The festival's unique blend of jazz, soul, funk, blues, and fusion continues to attract both jazz purists and modern music lovers, making it a must-attend event for all.
The full festival line-up will be announced in February, with ticket sales going live next week, on Tuesday January 28 via Ticketmaster.co.za
Mark your calendars for an unforgettable celebration of music, culture, and community.