Cape Town’s signature outdoor concert series is stepping into 2026 with momentum, as the Kirstenbosch Summer Sunset Concerts roll out a January programme that blends international acclaim with homegrown favourites.
Set against the slopes of Table Mountain, the long-running series continues to position Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden as a meeting point for music, nature and shared summer experiences.
Organisers say the January schedule reflects both the global reach and local heartbeat that have come to define the concerts.
The new year officially got underway on 4 January, when internationally recognised electronic duo Goldfish returned to Cape Town, drawing fans eager to reconnect with a familiar local success story on a world stage.
A month shaped by range and return performances
The programme moves into its second week with a tribute that has earned worldwide recognition. On 11 January, audiences can expect a powerful vocal performance as Belinda Davids takes to the stage with her celebrated homage to Whitney Houston, a show known for both technical precision and emotional depth.
Midweek brings another international highlight, as UK singer-songwriter Calum Scott returns to Kirstenbosch on Wednesday 14 January, marking a much-anticipated comeback following previous sold-out appearances.
Tickets for the performance have already been snapped up, underscoring sustained demand for the artist’s return.
The Sunday tradition continues on 18 January, pairing South African icons Freshlyground with rising Afro-soul artist Manana.
The double-bill blends established hits with newer sounds, offering a collaborative snapshot of the country’s evolving music scene.
The month concludes on 25 January with a shift in tempo and geography, as Bombino, the Niger-born guitarist widely associated with modern desert blues, closes out January with a performance that introduces audiences to Tuareg rhythms shaped by Saharan traditions.
According to Sarah Struys, who is the Events and Tourism Manager for Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, the series remains rooted in more than just performance.
‘The Summer Sunset Concerts are about connection, joy and the beauty of experiencing art in harmony with nature,’ she said.
‘This year’s line-up is one of our most exciting ever, with something for everyone. We are thrilled to welcome such incredible local and international talent to the garden.’
Concertgoers are encouraged to plan ahead, with organisers reminding the public that ticket availability is limited and demand traditionally peaks early in the season.
The Kirstenbosch Summer Sunset Concerts take place every Sunday afternoon, with gates opening at 4pm and performances starting at 5:15pm.
Events are hosted at Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden along Rhodes Drive in Newlands.
Tickets are available exclusively through Webtickets or at the Kirstenbosch Ticket Office. Prices are set at R360 for adults, R255 for youth aged 6 to 21 years with valid ID, while children aged 0 to 5 years enter free.
As summer settles in, picnic blankets and baskets remain part of the ritual, reinforcing a format that continues to draw audiences year after year, not just for the music, but for the shared moment it creates.
Be the first to know – Join our WhatsApp Channel for content worth tapping into! Click here to join!
Also read:
A perfect day in Sea Point: tidal pools, long lunches and golden-hour magic
Picture: Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden / Facebook
