The Cape Town International Jazz Festival (CTIJF) officially unveiled its bold new vision for 2027 at an exclusive launch event attended by sponsors, partners, stakeholders and members of the media.
Marking a significant evolution in the festival's history, the CTIJF announced that the 2027 edition will take place throughout March, expanding beyond its traditional weekend format to become a month-long, city-wide celebration of music, culture and creativity.
The launch event featured a special tribute to the late legendary South African jazz icon Abdullah Ibrahim, honouring his immense contribution to jazz and his lasting impact on the country’s musical heritage.
The South African Jazz Trio, comprising Damian Kamineth, Keegan Steenkamp and Rouxne Schutte, provided a beautiful musical backdrop throughout the evening, with Heineken keeping glasses full and spirits high.
Africa's Grandest Gathering
For more than two decades, the CTIJF has established itself as one of Africa's leading cultural events, attracting audiences and artists from around the world. Since its inception in 2000, the festival has grown into a platform that not only showcases world-class musical talent but also contributes to cultural exchange, community engagement through its masterclasses and workshops, and creative development.
Over the years, the festival has hosted an impressive line-up of both international and local artists, including Hugh Masekela, Miriam Makeba, Herbie Hancock, Jill Scott, Erykah Badu, Earth, Wind & Fire, Lira, Black Coffee and Thandiswa Mazwai, among many others.
The next chapter in the journey
While the festival is renowned for live music experiences, the 24th edition will embrace a broader footprint across Cape Town and surrounds, activating a range of cultural, community and public spaces throughout the city. This expanded approach aims to create greater accessibility, deeper community engagement, and a richer cultural experience for audiences and visitors alike.
Festival activities will take place across several iconic locations, with additional venues and programme elements to be announced.
The month-long programme will feature a dynamic mix of performances, cultural activations, educational initiatives, industry engagement opportunities and community-focused experiences, reinforcing the CTIJF's commitment to celebrating the diversity and creativity of Cape Town.
"On Friday, the CTIJF's future was defined. It's a future that's rooted in legacy and deeply personal, having quite literally grown up with the festival. I have seen what it meant through the eyes of so many different audiences: from Mitchell's Plain, the Atlantic Seaboard, Johannesburg, Durban, and the international guests who come every year.
"We have worked hard to capture all of that in the next chapter of the CTIJF. We have paid our tributes, and we will continue to do so. From legends like Uncle Abdullah Ibrahim and Hugh Masekela to rising stars like Zoë Modiga and Bongeziwe Mabandla, we have shown that we remain the premier platform to showcase the legacy and the future of our nation. As a family, we have contributed so much love, time, and capital to make this festival one for the people. I'm honoured to be taking the CTIJF to new heights."
Rayhaan Survé, Chairman, Survé Family Office
“Friday's launch has set the tone for what will be a historic year. The 2027 CTIJF is taking on an exciting new shape with a city-wide expansion that will bring every corner of Cape Town alive. We see this as nothing less than the Month of the Mother City. A vibrant, month-long celebration where the spirit of jazz unites our communities, boosts our local economy, and showcases African excellence on a truly global scale.”
— Georgia Jones, Co-Director, Cape Town International Jazz Festival
“The launch was a powerful reflection of the momentum behind the 2027 CTIJF and the strength of the partnerships driving our next phase of growth. It was especially rewarding to reconnect with our sponsors and partners so soon after our March festival, reinforcing the trust and long-standing relationships that continue to underpin our success. As we evolve into a broader, city-wide platform, we are creating high-impact opportunities for brands to engage with diverse audiences and co-create experiences that deliver both cultural and commercial value.”
— Carolyn Savage, Co-Director, Cape Town International Jazz Festival
Further 2027 programme details, artist announcements and ticketing information will be released in the coming months.
For updates, visit the festival's official website and social media channels.
GLAMOUR Recommends
Africa Month Spotlight: AfroDiaspora Connection celebrates jazz and alternative music in Cape Town and Johannesburg
A cultural showcase at Youngblood Africa Gallery with Cape Town International Jazz Festival
Feminine power takes centre stage at Cape Town International Jazz Festival 2026
Thando Zide on music, collaboration and her Cape Town International Jazz Festival debut
Jazz it up: Fashion tips for the Cape Town International Jazz Festival
Everything you need to know about the Cape Town International Jazz Festival — and how to plan for it
