Destination South Africa
Festivals & Events 2023
The joy of life at the tip of South Africa is back! After more than two years of pandemic-related hiatus, there will again be numerous festivals and events in 2023!
As diverse as the cultures, languages, landscapes, and inhabitants are, so too are the numerous events in the individual provinces of the so-called Rainbow Nation. We'll show you when and where you can experience some culture on your next trip to South Africa!
Music as far as the ear can hear!
In South Africa, music is played literally on every corner, because with as many different cultures as there are in the Rainbow Nation, the musical spectrum is just as broad. Accompanied by rhythms and sounds wherever you go, specific performances take place at numerous concerts and festivals. Some of these have international renown, which we will now introduce to you.
27 – 29.01.2023 – Origin Festival
In January, about 125 km from Cape Town, things get psychedelic. Because when techno-shamanic groups meet in the valley of the Elandkloof River for a special outdoor event, one of Africa's most brilliant psychedelic events is celebrated – the Origin Festival!
17 – 18.03.2023 – Cape Town International Jazz Festival
In March, the legendary Cape Town International Jazz Festival will once again take place at Cape Town's International Convention Center. After two years of pandemic-related hiatus, the 21st anniversary will be celebrated with 21 top artists on three stages.
06. – 10.04.2023 – Splashy Fen
South Africa's oldest music festival, which annually attracts up to 150,000 visitors and bears the nickname "SA Friendliest Music Festival," is much more than just a music festival. The Splashy Fen takes place against the backdrop of the southern Drakensberg Mountains in the KwaZulu-Natal province and offers music as well as yoga and entertainment for the family and children.
24. – 30.04.2023 – Africa Burn
This interdisciplinary cultural event unites eccentric, fancy artists and visitors of all kinds with artworks, costumes, dance, and music of every variety. Every April, a week-long extraordinary celebration takes place in Quaggafontein in Tankwa Karoo in the Western Cape. The AfrikaBurn is a must for music and art lovers!
Art as far as the eye can see!
22.06. – 02.07.2023 – National Arts Festival
For culture enthusiasts from all over the world, it will finally be interesting again from June 22nd for almost two weeks! Because the National Arts Festival (NAF) in Makhanda in the Eastern Cape province opens its doors. With a tradition of almost 50 years, more than 360 events, and 1,200 performances, it is the largest art festival on the African continent! No wonder it is one of the most visited festivals worldwide!
11. – 15.07.2023 – Vrystaat Arts Festival
In the Free State province, under the motto "One Festival, many Stories," the Vrystaat Arts Festival takes place over five days. It is the only festival that follows the Khoi-San protocol and has anchored the First Nations culture in its program.
Cuisine as far as the eye can see!
01. – 10.07.2023 – KNYSNA OYSTER FESTIVAL
With a 40-year tradition, the ten-day Knysna Oyster Festival takes place on the Garden Route at the beginning of July. Indulge your palate with wonderful oyster creations and take part in the famous oyster eating contest!
Early August 2023 – Stellenbosch Wine Festival
Anyone who wants to experience the wine diversity of Stellenbosch will not be disappointed at the Stellenbosch Wine Festival at the beginning of August. Numerous winemakers present their creations in the heart of the "Winelands," which you can taste.
If this is too far away or doesn't fit your schedule, we recommend visiting one of our free wine tastings in Wädenswil (10 times a year). All Stellenbosch wines can also be found in our online shop.
Sport as far as the eye can see!
12.03.2023 – Cape Town Cycle Tour
If you enjoy cycling and occasionally participate yourself, you shouldn't miss this opportunity. Up to 35,000 participants take part in the annual Cape Town Cycle Tour, making it the world's largest mass-participation cycling event. The Cape Town Cycle Tour is part of Lifestyle Week, which also includes Junior Tours for 6-12 year olds, a Tricycle Tour for 2-6 year olds, and a Mountain Bike Challenge.
15. – 16.04.2023 – Two Ocean Marathon
10.06.2023 – Comrades Marathon
In April, the Two Oceans Marathon takes place, connecting two oceans, making it unique worldwide. The Comrades Marathon in June connects Durban with Pietermaritzburg and covers a distance of almost 90 km. It is the world's largest ultramarathon by participant numbers!
November 2023 – Betway Summer Cup
Those who love equestrian sports should not miss the oldest and most famous horse race, the Betway Summer Cup, in Johannesburg. Here, athletes, sports enthusiasts, fashion icons, artists, and gourmets meet, and exciting races are accompanied by fashion shows, live music, and entertainment!
