Kirstenbosch Summer Sunset Concerts return with an electrifying line-up that brings together legendary icons, global stars and South Africa’s hottest rising talent.
From Afro-soul and indie-folk ,to desert blues and full orchestras, this is the ultimate soundtrack to summer in the city.
| KIRSTENBOSCH SUMMER SUNSET CONCERTS 2025-26 |
| Mi Casa – 23 November 2025
Gates: 16:00 Concert 17:15 to 19:00 The season launches in style with South Africa’s chart-topping House trio. Expect smooth vocals, jazzy trumpet riffs and grooves that make you move. With Table Mountain glowing in the late afternoon sun, Kirstenbosch transforms into the city’s ultimate dance floor. Bring your friends, picnic, a blanket and lose yourself in the rhythm. Summer starts here; Mi Casa makes sure it’s with a bang! |
| Prime Circle/ Jesse Clegg – 30 November 2025
Gates: 16:00 Concert 17:15 to 19:00 Two powerhouse acts ignite the ultimate summer vibes, for one night only. Prime Circle bring their stadium-sized sound, while Jesse Clegg delivers soaring, heartfelt hits that beg to be sung along to. The Kirstenbosch stage will shake with energy as rock fills the air. This promises to be an afternoon of anthems and memories you won’t want to miss. |
| Karen Zoid & Francois van Coke – 7 December 2025
Gates: 16:00 Concert 17:15 to 19:00 Afrikaans rock royalty takes the stage when Karen Zoid and Francois van Coke bring their explosive energy to Kirstenbosch, marking 10 years of their smash hit Toe Vind Ek Jou. Expect a fiery mix of duets and solo favourites that showcase two of South Africa’s most powerful voices. With Table Mountain as the backdrop, the Garden will pulse with raw emotion and unfiltered rock ‘n roll. |
| RY X (Australia) – 12 December 2025 (not part of the summer sunset concerts)
Gates: 18:00 Concert: 19h00 to 22:00 BreakOut Events and Anything Goes are proud to announce the highly anticipated Cape Town debut of globally acclaimed singer-songwriter RY X. Expect an evening of quiet intensity and connection – a live performance that feels like a ritual: intentional, immersive, and deeply human. An intimate concert in a setting as serene as the sound. Tickets: RY X – Live in Cape Town |
| Bongeziwe Mabandla/ Matthew Field – 14 December 2025
Gates: 16:00 Concert: 17:15 to 19:00 Bongeziwe Mabandla and Matthew Field come together on one stage for an exceptional afternoon of live music. Mabandla, known as the “enigmatic spirit of folk,” captivates with his haunting Xhosa folk and evocative soundscapes, while Matthew Field, lead singer of Beatenberg, charms with his melodic pop and heartfelt lyrics. Though distinct in style, both artists share an honesty and vulnerability that makes for unforgettable performances. This rare double bill offers audiences the chance to experience two of South Africa’s most unique voices on one stage. Pack your picnic, bring a blanket and come enjoy artistry in an intimate showcase of soul and song. |
| Rotary Christmas Carols at Kirstenbosch – 18, 19, 20 and 21 December 2025 (not part of the summer sunset concerts)
Gates: 18:00 The enormously popular Cape Town Carols at Kirstenbosch is the flagship project of The Rotary of Kirstenbosch, kindly sponsored by Pick n Pay. The Carols pageant is narrated by the well-loved voice of Nick Plummer leading our pageant cast of talented soloists and volunteers; accompanied and supported for over 20 years by the Cape Town Concert Brass Band and more recently the Friends Swing Choir. It’s a fun way to bring your own picnic and come picnic on the lawns, or pre-order a picnic from Pick n Pay and get into the mood for Christmas, all while helping to raise funds for deserving charities in and around Cape Town. Ticket Pricing: General Access – Adults: R175 | Scholars: R125 | Under 6years enters free. Tickets Sales: www.webtickets.co.za Picnic Sales: see website, and is an optional extra to your ticket price. |
| The Kiffness – 28 December 2025
Gates: 16:00 Concert 17:15 to 19:00 Expect laughter, wit and irresistible beats when The Kiffness takes the Kirstenbosch stage. Known for viral collaborations and clever remixes that blend humour with serious musical chops, David Scott’s live shows are as entertaining as they are unforgettable. This is music designed to make you smile, dance and sing along. |
| Mango Groove/ The Billy Joel Experience – New Year’s Eve : 31 December 2025
Gates open 19:00 Concert: 20:30 to 00:15 Two legends, one stage. Mango Groove’s 40-year legacy of pop-kwela joy meets the timeless magic of The Billy Joel Experience with Alexander Broussard & band. Expect nostalgia, singalongs and an unforgettable celebration. Gates open at 18:00, and the concert begins at 19:00 into 2026! Bring your picnic, a blanket and some drinks to cheers to the festivities, as there will be no alcohol sold on site. As always, this is a non-smoking event. Children from 2 years old require a ticket for this New Year’s Eve concert. |
| Goldfish – 4 January 2026
Gates: 16:00 Concert 17:15 to 19:00 Cape Town’s biggest summer party returns as global electronic icons Goldfish lights up Kirstenbosch. Bringing their unstoppable blend of sax riffs, double bass grooves and house beats. As the summer sun give the garden a golden glow, expect an ocean of sound and energy that transforms the stage into a blooming open-air dancefloor like no other. |
| Belinda Davids – 11 January 2026
Gates: 16:00 Concert 17:15 to 19:00 Experience the magic of Whitney Houston’s music brought to life by international sensation Belinda Davids. Her breathtaking voice and emotional performance have wowed audiences worldwide, and now she brings that power to Kirstenbosch. Expect nostalgia, timeless hits and goosebumps! |
| Freshlyground/ Manana – 18 January 2026
Gates: 16:00 Concert 17:15 to 19:00 Freshlyground, South Africa’s beloved Afro-fusion band, reunites with their joyful rhythms and timeless anthems. Sharing the stage with Manana, whose soulful, jazz-infused sound is captivating audiences everywhere, this is a cross-generational celebration. Bring your blanket, picnic and crew for an afternoon filled with harmony, dance and beautiful vibrations. |
| Bombino – 25 January 2026
Gates: 16:00 Concert 17:15 to 19:00 Feel the desert heat as Bombino, Niger’s Tuareg star guitarist, brings hypnotic desert blues to Kirstenbosch. Nicknamed the “Sultan of Shred,” his electrifying riffs and soulful vocals blend tradition and rock energy into an unforgettable sound. This is music that transcends borders, carrying audiences to the Sahara under Cape Town’s sky. Bring your picnic and blanket for a rare, powerful afternoon of rhythm and spirit. |
| The Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra – 1 February 2026
Gates: 16:00 Concert 17:30 to 19:00 A moment of grandeur awaits as the Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra fills Kirstenbosch with rich harmonies and sweeping soundscapes featuring German bandoneon specialist, Lothar Hensel, for his rendition of a selection of Argentinian tango composer, Astor Piazzolla’s works from Adios Nonino to Libertango. The programme will also include fiery dances by Villa Lobos, De Falla and more, to transform Kirstenbosch into Cape Town’s most elegant stage for the day. |
| Msaki & The ALTBLK>>Africa Collective – 8 February 2026
Gates: 16:00 Concert starts: 17:15 Visionary artist Msaki presents The ALT BLK Collective for a groundbreaking Kirstenbosch performance. Known for her poetic lyrics and soul-stirring voice, Msaki weaves intimacy into bold experimentation. The ALT BLK Collective, consisting of 8 musicians from across the African continent, expands the sound into new dimensions. Gates open at 16:00, bring your picnic, a blanket and a free spirit. |
Jeremy Loops – 15 February 2026
 Gates: 16:00 Concert 17:15 to 19:00 Jeremy Loops brings his sunshine-soaked energy and infectious folk-pop anthems to the Kirstenbosch stage. Known for his loop pedal wizardry, soaring choruses and feel-good performances, he will transform the Garden into a giant summer singalong. With the mountain magic as your backdrop, this will be pure joy under the summer sun. Bring your picnic, a blanket and good vibes. |
| Vusi Mahlasela/ Jabulani Majola – 22 February 2026
Gates: 16:00 Concert 17:15 to 19:00 “The Voice” of South Africa, Vusi Mahlasela joins rising talent, Jabulani Majola, for an afternoon of inspiration and artistry. Mahlasela’s iconic sounds of freedom and hope meet Majola’s vibrant contemporary style in a powerful dialogue across generations. With Table Mountain behind them, the concert becomes a hymn of resilience and beauty. |
| Derek Gripper/ Kyle Sheperd Trio – 1 March 2026
Gates: 16:00 Concert 17:15 to 19:00 Two virtuosos share the stage for a day of spellbinding musicianship. Derek Gripper, famous for transcribing the kora to classical guitar, and Kyle Sheperd, one of South Africa’s most innovative pianists, bring worlds together in sound. Look forward to intricate, soulful and unexpected harmonies, with the Kirstenbosch Garden providing the perfect setting. |
| Matthew Mole – 8 March 2026
Gates: 16:00 Concert 17:15 to 19:00 Sing along under the summer sky with Matthew Mole, one of South Africa’s most beloved singer-songwriters. Known for his uplifting lyrics and unique blend of folk, pop and electronic elements, his concerts are filled with warmth, energy and joy. Kirstenbosch provides the perfect stage for his heartfelt music. |
| Thandiswa Mazwai – 15 March 2026
Gates: 16:00 Concert 17:15 to 19:00 An icon takes the stage. Thandiswa Mazwai’s commanding voice and boundless artistry draw from Afro-soul, jazz, kwaito and Xhosa folklore, creating performances that are exceptional, avant-garde and unforgettable. For this show, Kirstenbosch National Botanical becomes the perfect canvas for her storytelling, activism and musical mastery. The setting, an illustrious cultural archive in its own right, allows the artist room to deliver the ultimate culmination of spirit and strength. |
| Will Linley / Ben Rodrigues – 22 March 2026
Gates: 16:00 Concert 17:15 to 19:00 Rising pop stars Will Linley and Ben Rodrigues take the Kirstenbosch stage for a feel-good summer showcase of catchy hits and fresh energy. Known for melodic hooks, heartfelt lyrics and irresistible authenticity, Linley and Rodrigues are fast becoming South Africa’s brightest new talents. With Table Mountain glowing in the late afternoon sun, expect an atmosphere of joy, connection and music that makes you move. |
| The Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra and Rob Van Vuuren – Peter and the Wolf – 29 March 2026
Gates: 16:00 Concert 17:30 to 19:00 A magical afternoon awaits as the Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra brings music to life for children and families. With playful storytelling and delightful arrangements, from Sergei Prokofiev’s Peter and the Wolf, narrated by Rob van Vuuren, to film music from Frozen and Star Wars, this concert introduces young audiences to the orchestral sound. Against the mountain backdrop, it promises to be an afternoon of wonder and discovery for budding music-lovers. |
Concert Tickets
Tickets are available from www.webtickets.co.za, our ONLY online ticketing partner, as well as Pick n Pay stores (Webtickets partner) and the Kirstenbosch Ticket Office.
Children between the age of 0 and 5 years don’t require a concert ticket.
All concerts take place irrespective of rain. Regret no refunds are issued.
Dos and Don’ts
Dos
- Do bring picnic blankets and/or low deckchairs that don’t obstruct the view of the people behind you.
- You may bring a high chair, but please note that high chairs must be positioned on the perimeter of the lawn.
- Do bring a picnic hamper if you wish. Alcoholic beverages are allowed, but no alcohol is sold at the event.
- Do leave the garden by 20h00
- Do take all your litter home, the concert venue is bin-free.
- Do respect the peace and cleanliness of adjacent residential areas when leaving.
Don’ts
- Don’t smoke at Kirstenbosch. There are no designated smoking areas in the concert area or the rest of the garden.
- Don’t climb in trees or walk in the flower beds.
- Don’t leave litter in our World Heritage Site.
Food and beverages
Feel free to bring your own picnic. Alcoholic beverages are allowed.
Moyo Restaurant’s food outlets in the concert area have delicious food and non-alcoholic beverages for sale at all our concerts. Please note that there will be no alcohol for sale at any of the concerts.
Disabled parking
Disabled concert goers will be given special parking in the service entrance, 400m south of the main entrance of Kirstenbosch along Rhodes Drive.
Concert info: 021 799 8783
Run/Walk
Participants to please bring along any toiletry items as a donation towards the Overstrand Child and Youth Care Centre.
Route: Park Run route
Time: 8:30-13:00
Entry: free
Talk with Dr. Jordaan from Kogelberg Medical Centre
(General tips to reduce cancer risk)
Time: 10:30 – 12:30
Contact: Charmaine Bouton at 083 3002 983
Registration dates: 23rd to 30th October 2025 at the Garden Entrance
- Note that every participant needs to register during this period
General enquiries:
Delicia Appel
Tel.: 087 260 9757
Email: D.Appel@sanbi.org.za
The Kirstenbosch Gold Fields Environmental Education Centre will be hosting “Create a Creature” Waste art workshop for children aged 6 -12 years on 08 October 2025 from 09h00 – 13h00. Children will enjoy an exploratory walk into Kirstenbosch Garden, searching for and observing creatures in the forest, fynbos, and rivers. On their return to the Education Centre, they will use their imagination and common household waste to create a model of a creature they saw in the garden. The workshop costs R60 per child (pre-booking and pre-payment are essential). To book contact no: 069 260 0703 or email Lereko Setloboko on l.setloboko@sanbi.org.za
The Kirstenbosch Gold Fields Environmental Education Centre will be hosting a “Trash to Trend” Art Workshop – a creative fashion show experience with a powerful environmental message. This hands-on workshop encourages children aged 10–15 to transform recyclable materials into fashionable designs and accessories, promoting creativity while raising awareness about waste reduction and sustainability.
The event aims to challenge participants to collaborate, innovate, and learn about the impact of waste on our environment through fun, purposeful activities. The workshop takes place on 07 October 2025, from 08h30 to 13h30. The cost is R80 per child (pre-booking and pre-payment are essential). Parents are encouraged to arrive 30 minutes before the end to enjoy a delightful mini-runway showcase featuring their children’s creations. To book, contact no: 082 501 4381 or email Nduvho Tshidumo on n.tshidumo@sanbi.org.za
Gin, Good Vibes & Great Rugby
Behold, the 8th Harvest & Gin Festival has arrived!
This event celebrates the bountiful harvest from the land and honours the fruits of labour and dedication. It entails indulging in delectable cuisine and savouring the signature gin cocktails from esteemed brands. It will feature entertainment, food stalls, music, and a setup that will foster a joyous atmosphere, taking your lifestyle to a whole new level.
Expect to see more activities. Gates open at 12am. No food or spirits from outside the venue will be allowed. Cooler boxes are allowed at a fee, but only cans.
Join us at Harvest & Gin Fest, sip on the finest gins, enjoy live music, indulge in tasty food stalls, and catch SA vs Argentina Live on the big screen
- Price for a cooler box R100
Enquiries:
Tamara Mkhize
Cell: +27 84 880 0944
E-mail: tamaramkhize01@gmail.com
Join us on Sunday the 14 September as we celebrate 40 years of the fantastic Mango Groove!
Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the garden’s lush landscape, the afternoon will offer a unique blend of uplifting melodies, vibrant rhythms, and unforgettable moments, creating a perfect soundtrack under the African sky.
Save the date of 06 September 2025 for an epic day of birding excitement at the Pretoria National Botanical Garden.
Expect a day filled with early morning birding walks, talks by inspiring guest speakers and workshops.
Keep your eye on this page, your inbox and our social media platforms for more information soon.
The Imbawula Music Festival is a premier cultural and musical event, bringing together people from all walks of life to celebrate diversity, creativity, and community. Taking place in the vibrant city of Tshwane on 02 August 2025, the festival promises an unforgettable blend of live performances, cultural experiences, and communal energy.
Enquiries:
Nhlanhla
Tel.: 061 179 9064
Join us for South Africa’s largest travel light festival, where you’ll be captivated by breathtaking displays of light art, cultural expressions, and heritage. Immerse yourself in the magic of this extraordinary lighting festival. From vibrant light shows to cultural celebrations and stunning illuminated art, the festival offers a sensory delight. As dusk falls, the park transforms into a kaleidoscope of colours, featuring intricate installations and mesmerizing projections that turn everyday spaces into enchanting realms. This year’s theme highlights South Africa’s rich heritage and wildlife conservation, using the festive occasion to raise awareness about endangered species that need our protection such as the Rhino and more. The exhibition will showcase a variety of lighting themes, including wildlife, festive displays, dance floors, prehistoric exhibits, and the Glow Village, complete with interactive lighting props.
With over a million lights illuminating the area, the festival creates a breathtaking wonderland. Attendees can look forward to life-sized lanterns representing various animals, including marine creatures and birds from around the world. Guests will have the unique opportunity to walk through a giant illuminated shark to enter the exhibition. The festival will also feature glowing statues of prehistoric dinosaurs, majestic lions, zebras, giraffes, polar bears, camels, kangaroos, and more.
Indulge in a variety of delicious food stalls, vibrant markets, and live DJ performances.
Your ticket includes fun activities such as:
1. Jumping castle
2. background music
3. access to markets and food stall area.
Additionally, a range of family-friendly paid on activities will be available:
1. Photo booth
2. Glow car rides
3. Electric train rides
4. Pirate Ship ride
5. Teacup and saucer ride
Kirstenbosch: Gold Fields Environmental Education Centre will be hosting a “Nature’s Treasure Box “art workshop for children aged 6 – 10 years on Wednesday 16 July 2025 from 09h00 – 13h00. It will be a morning filled with fun activities, storytelling, and an exploratory walk in our Garden. Children will create and decorate their special “Treasure Box” and will put their treasures from the Garden in their unique box to take home with them. The workshop costs R60 per child (pre-booking and pre-payment are essential). To book contact no: 069 260 0703 or email Lereko Setloboko on l.setloboko@sanbi.org.za
Kirstenbosch: Gold Fields Environmental Education Centre will be hosting a “Trash to Trend” Art Workshop – a creative fashion show experience with a powerful environmental message. This hands-on workshop encourages children aged 10–15 to transform recyclable materials into fashionable designs and accessories, promoting creativity while raising awareness about waste reduction and sustainability. The event aims to challenge participants to collaborate, innovate, and learn about the impact of waste on our environment through fun, purposeful activities. The workshop takes place on 15 July 2025, from 08h30 to 13h30. The cost is R80 per child (pre-booking and pre-payment are essential). Parents are encouraged to arrive 30 minutes before the end to enjoy a delightful mini-runway showcase featuring their children’s creations. To book, contact no: 069 260 0703 or email Nduvho Tshidumo on n.tshidumo@sanbi.org.za
Our picnics are an unforgettable way to celebrate nature in a unique way. With passion being such an important part of our lives, join us for the PMB Sensational Picnic, Durban July edition, a day filled with live music, great food, and beautiful surroundings. Get ready for an unforgettable experience with top performers and a vibrant atmosphere. Get your tickets now and be ready for an incredible experience.
Performers:
- Ismail Abrahams – The DjMAN
- Mlindo The Vocalist
- Tbose Mokwele
Limited Tickets are now available at Shoprite, Checker , Pick n Pay or Online at Webtickets and Computicket.
Early Bird Entrance Ticket: R100
General Phase 1 : R150
General Phase 2 : R200
General Phase 3 : R250
Allowed items
- Picnic Blankets
- Picnic Basket
- Coolerbox R100 small & R150 big at the gate – Cans Only
- Folding Chairs
- Gazebo/umbrella
Enquiries:
Cell: +27 72 956 4815
E-mail: picnicbraai@gmail.com
A whimsical world of wonder awaits you and your family at the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden. We’re bringing experiences that fuse creativity with adventure to little explorers of all ages; come and discover the ultimate treasure trove for budding nature-lovers and blossoming minds!
From 30th June to 17th July, Kirstenbosch will become a playground for the imagination with lots of learning, exploration and activities ranging from nature walks to plant potting, drumming, marimbas, sand art and more. Our holiday calendar has been carefully curated to inspire children, nurture their connection to nature and create a blissful atmosphere. Don’t miss out on the fun-filled Kirstenbosch Winter Wonders programme.
“Holidays are all about fun for the whole family; parents can enjoy a quiet stroll in the garden, a bite at one of our restaurants: Moyo, Fynkos or Vida e Caffe. Or a browse around the Kirstenbosch Gift Shop and Bookshop and HAPPY BY NATURE’s range of organically grown indigenous plants– that come with free expert planting advice– while the children colour, build or play,” says Sarah Struys, the Events and Tourism Manager at Kirstenbosch.
Here’s our game plan for letting the good times roll:
Adventure Walks for Young Explorers
Let your children weave through the Garden in wonder on age-appropriate guided walks starting at Moyo Restaurant, led by experienced Botanical Society volunteers.
- Ages 6 – 12 years: 2nd, 9th and 16th July from 11:00 – 12:00
Ages 13 – 17 years: 3rd from 14:00 – 16:00, and 17th July from 11:00 – 13:00.
Every adventurer gets a complimentary hot chocolate at Moyo to warm up after the walk! Book your spot: gianpaolo@botsoc-kirstenbosch.org.za
Important note: Should we experience heavy rains, guided walk will be cancelled
Delightful Discoveries at HAPPY BY NATURE
Enter a state of natural bliss at HAPPY BY NATURE, Kirstenbosch’s indigenous nursery founded on the principle of joy. their list of daily activities includes:
- Pot-a-Plant sessions where children pot an indigenous plant to take home
- Rock Painting Tables for all-day creation
- Creation Stations where children can make natural perfumes and handwashes
- A cozy kids’ corner with chalkboard walls and building blocks
- Info Trail where children can unearth fascinating facts about local flora and fauna.
- Free Scavenger Hunt where curious eyes can explore the nursery
Join the HAPPY BY NATURE Holiday series of workshops for children aged 7–14, the sessions combine art, wellness and cover themes like Protea Patterns, Edible Plants, Plant–animal partnerships, Birds, insect-inspired and more.
Dates: 30th June, 2nd, 4th, 7th, 9th and 11th July from 10:00 –12:30. Book at Home – HAPPY BY NATURE
Music, Magic and Art at Moyo Restaurant
We’ll be turning up the rhythm with daily themed sessions at Moyo, Kirstenbosch’s beloved family restaurant. Look out for:
- Drumming, Marimba and Sand Art Sessions
- Guided Garden Walks
- And a complimentary hot chocolate after every walk
We recommend that you make a booking for these, via Dineplan.
Bookshop & Gift Shop Treasure
Inspire young bookworms to unlock a new world within at special book readings and signings with Peter Rabbit on the 4th, 8th, 10th and 15th of July at 10:00 am. Enjoy 20% off plush toys and discounts on selected books. Also 15% discount on children’s book until 31 July 2025.
10am book readings at The Bookshop in July:
- 4th with author, Karen Cammell and the Nita book range
- 7th with author, Pippa Skotnes and the book When the World Was
- 8th with illustrator, Anja Stoeckigt and the book Superheroes of the Savannah
- 10th with author, Marc Hoberman and the book Harper
- 15th with author, Monique Fellows and the book Sandy and the Salty Sea Dog
For bookings email: bookshop@botsoc-kirstenbosch.org.za
Food for the Soul
While the children wander and explore all the wonder, parents can unwind at one of Kirstenbosch’s onsite restaurants:
- Moyo, for a warm, family-friendly South African dining experience.
- Fynkos, perfect for a relaxed garden lunch.
Mark Your Calendar
Our activities run daily, experience them more than once and discover something new each time.
Bring your family and turn a fun time into core memories! Foster curiosity and enjoy the richness of one of the world’s most beautiful gardens.
Book your dining and walking spots in advance.
For more information, contact HAPPY BY NATURE directly for workshop bookings.