Calabash South Africa 2026 Cancelled After Muse Withdraws

Venecia Valentine

Calabash South Africa fans were left stunned after organisers confirmed the cancellation of the 2026 festival just one month before the scheduled shows.

Calabash and Big Concerts announced on Wednesday, 14 January, that the entire South African leg of the tour would not proceed.

Why Calabash Was Cancelled

According to the official statement, the decision followed the withdrawal of headline act Muse.

Organisers explained that Muse was unable to perform in the UAE, South Africa, and India due to circumstances beyond their control. They added that no suitable replacement headliner could be secured in time, resulting in the cancellation of the entire event.

Muse also shared a direct message with fans, apologising for the disappointment and confirming that the decision was not taken lightly.

Full Line-up That Was Set to Perform

The Calabash South Africa 2026 line-up included several major international and local acts:

• Simple Plan
• Nothing But Thieves
• Prime Circle
• Van Pletzen
• Die Heuwels Fantasties

Despite the strong supporting line-up, organisers confirmed the festival would not proceed without its headline act.

Refunds and Ticket Information

Ticket holders were assured that all purchases would be fully refunded.

This includes:
• Concert tickets
• Parking tickets
• Park and ride tickets

Refunds have already begun and are expected to appear within 5 to 10 business days. Fans with outdated payment details will be contacted directly by Ticketmaster. Further updates are available on the official Calabash South Africa website.

Fans React With Anger and Disappointment

The announcement sparked immediate backlash across social media. Many fans questioned why the event could not continue without Muse and asked organisers to reconsider.

Several comments highlighted frustration at missing rare performances from international acts who seldom tour South Africa. Others referenced past festivals that continued despite last-minute artist withdrawals.

A recurring sentiment from fans was clear. They wanted the festival to go ahead or, at a minimum, for the remaining international acts to tour South Africa separately in 2026.

Calabash 2026 Show Dates That Were Cancelled

The concerts were scheduled for:
• 7 February 2026 at FNB Stadium in Johannesburg
• 11 February 2026 at DHL Stadium in Cape Town

For now, fans remain hopeful that some of the artists will return to South Africa in the near future, even if Calabash itself does not.