Cape town set to sizzle with world-class jazz

Cape Town is abuzz as the Cape Town International Jazz Festival (CTIJF) returns on 25-26 April 2025. Featuring over 30 world-class artists, exclusive collaborations, and vibrant celebrations, this iconic event promises an unforgettable fusion of music, culture, and freedom.

Cape Town is gearing up for an exhilarating celebration as the Cape Town International Jazz Festival (CTIJF) returns on 25 and 26 April 2025 at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC). Known as Africa’s Grandest Gathering, this iconic festival promises to deliver an unforgettable experience featuring over 30 world-class artists and an exclusive, world-first musical collaboration that aims to leave music lovers spellbound.

One of the most anticipated moments of this year’s festival coincides beautifully with Freedom Day on 27 April. The occasion serves as a poignant reflection on South Africa’s journey towards liberation and its vibrant musical heritage now showcased on the global stage. Festival organisers, espAfrika, are excited about curating a line-up that not only entertains, but also embraces the diversity of its audience, ensuring that there is something spectacular for everyone.

Since its inception in 2000, the CTIJF has grown to become one of the premier music festivals in Africa, transforming Cape Town into a lively hub of cultural celebration and musical creativity. Attracting thousands of local and international visitors annually, the festival not only enriches the cultural landscape, but also acts as a significant economic driver for the Western Cape region.

According to research from North West University’s Tourism Research in Economics, Environs and Society unit, the 2024 festival generated an impressive R119 million in economic activity and created between 444 and 1 200 jobs in various sectors including event management, technical production, catering, and hospitality services. The 2025 edition aims to elevate this impact even further with exciting new developments.

• A world-class festival collaboration to be unveiled closer to the event.
• A fresh culinary experience featuring a variety of local and international flavours, set to tantalise festivalgoers.
• Exclusive Hospitality Lounges where corporate clients and discerning guests to indulge in the festival atmosphere in style.

This year, the beloved Free Concert returns on the eve of the festival, upholding the CTIJF’s dedication to accessibility and community spirit by providing locals an opportunity to enjoy world-class jazz without the barrier of cost. Additionally, the CTIJF Masterclasses will continue to inspire the next generation of artists, offering invaluable learning experiences through workshops featuring local and international musicians.

The festival’s rich integration of jazz, soul, funk, blues, and fusion will entice both traditional jazz aficionados and modern music lovers, solidifying its reputation as a must-attend event in the music calendar.

The excitement is palpable, with the first artist announcement slated for February. Ticket sales will go live on 28 January via ticketmaster.co.za, promising a rush for music lovers hoping to secure their place at this landmark event.