This New Year’s Eve, Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden invites you to celebrate the dawn of 2026 at one of the biggest nights on the calendar: an exceptional concert featuring South Africa’s legendary Mango Groove as they mark 40 years of music magic, alongside the electrifying international act, Alexander Broussard & Band presenting The Billy Joel Experience.
Presented as part of the Kirstenbosch Summer Sunset Concerts, this night promises to be a songfest of nostalgia and invigorating vibes beneath the stars to launch your 2026!
A Night of Legends, Legacy & Celebration
In this phenomenal moment for South African music– a milestone few bands reach, and even fewer with such an enduring influence– Mango Groove will bring their celebratory run full circle, taking the Kirstenbosch stage for the second time, since their 40th anniversary show at Kirstenbosch in January. With a genre-bending blend of marabi, kwela and pop, from Special Star to Dance Some More, Moments Away and more, Mango Groove’s sound has been the joyous soundtrack to South African life for four decades.
Reflecting on this, lead vocalist Claire Johnston says: “We can’t wait! We kicked off 2025 with our 40th Anniversary Concert at Kirstenbosch, so it seemed fitting that we see in 2026 at the same, gorgeous venue; there really is nowhere else we would rather be! We promise to bring a huge party, something different and an all-in Blast!”
Joining the celebration is Alexander Broussard & The Billy Joel Experience, a worldclass tribute, from the Netherlands, that channels the energy, emotion and piano mastery of Billy Joel’s most iconic songs. From Piano Man to Uptown Girl and more, audiences can expect a singalong spectacle that’s equal parts showmanship and heart.
“Performing at the breathtaking Kirstenbosch Gardens on New Year’s Eve is a dream come true. We can’t wait to celebrate under the Cape Town stars with an unforgettable night of Billy Joel’s timeless music,” says Broussard.
A celebration of icons at one of the most iconic venues
This is a continuation of Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden’s strong tradition of hosting the best acts in a setting like no other, with the majestic Table Mountain as the backdrop. The annual New Year’s Eve concert is a cherished fixture on Cape Town’s cultural calendar, drawing thousands for a safe, open-air celebration of music and community.
Sarah Struys, Events and Tourism Manager at Kirstenbosch, shares: “We are beyond excited to host Mango Groove as they mark four decades of iconic music, and to welcome Alexander Broussard’s Billy Joel Experience to Kirstenbosch for the first time. This concert is the ultimate celebration of togetherness, good memories and new beginnings.”
Tickets: Will be sold at R540 each, exclusively on Webtickets or at the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden Ticket Office. *Please beware of third party resellers; tickets purchased outside of official channels do not guarantee entry. Children over 2 years old require tickets.
Concert-goers are welcome to bring picnic baskets and alcoholic beverages, but there will be no alcohol sold at the venue. There will be delicious food and non-alcoholic beverage options from Moyo Restaurant’s food outlets in the concert area.
As always, this is a non-smoking event with strict enforcement. There are no designated smoking areas at the event or the garden.
We look forward to jamming to classics under the stars with you.
Share your NYE moments using #KBRocks, as the rhythm carries us into 2026!
Bring the family and enjoy a picnic under the stars!
Bring your own Torch!
Registration is at 18:30, and the run begins at 19:30
Fee:
- Adults: R60
- Children: R20
Phone: 087 260 9760/087 260 9756
E-mail: D.Appel@sanbi.org.za
We are thrilled to announce that our Candle by Candlelight event will be presented by the Hermanus Rotary Club! Join us with your friends and family, bring along your picnic basket, and enjoy singing your favorite Christmas carols.
Tickets can be purchased online via Webtickets or at the Harold Porter Entrance office.
Ticket price:
Adults: R140
Youth 6-18: R60
under 6: free
Contact details:
Tel.: 087 260 9755 or 087 260 9760
Email: D.Appel@sanbi.org.za
Enjoy great music, and delicious food. Have a relaxing picnic on the beautiful garden lawns while savouring the best beers the Western Cape has to offer.
Tickets can be purchased online at Quicket, or at the garden on the day of the event.
Directions: Corner of Clarence Drive and Broadwith Road, Bettys Bay 7141
Contact: 087 260 9760 / 087 260 9757
Email: D.Appel@sanbi.org.za, or tgerntholtz@gmail.com
BreakOut Events and Anything Goes are proud to announce the highly anticipated Cape Town debut of globally acclaimed singer-songwriter RY X, set to take place on Friday, 12 December 2025, at the iconic Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens.
On 12 December 2025, experience RY X beneath the open skies at Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens. 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.
Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens Concert:
- Address: Rhodes Drive, Newlands, Cape Town 7735
- Line-up: RY X, Opening act (TBA)
- Tickets: From R695 excl R35 Fee
Art Portfolio is hosting an eclectic exhibition of beautiful paintings by 21 Cape artists.
Closed on Christmas Day
Hangklip Art Studios is a collective of 33 members who are all local artists residing in Rooiels, Pringle Bay, Betty’s Bay and Kleinmond. We host as many exhibitions during the year as possible in order to promote our local artists and engage with those who wish to purchase art.
Normal entrance fees apply
Contact:
Lee- Ann
Tel.: 073 428 4398
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