Franschhoek makes history as the first African host of the Montreux Jazz Festival

In a groundbreaking announcement that marks an exciting chapter for both South Africa and the global music scene, the Franschhoek Wine Valley will become the first African host of the esteemed Montreux Jazz Festival. This historic event is slated for March 2026, following the festival’s longstanding legacy as one of the world’s premier music gatherings since its inception in 1967 in Montreux, Switzerland.

The Montreux Jazz Festival, renowned for its eclectic line-up spanning genres from jazz and blues to pop and rock, draws upwards of 250,000 music enthusiasts every year to its picturesque venue alongside Lake Geneva. The festival’s history is littered with performances from music legends such as Prince, B.B. King, Johnny Cash, and Stevie Wonder—a testament to its status in the global cultural landscape.

Mark Goedvolk, Founder of MJF Franschhoek, expressed his enthusiasm for the festival’s debut on African soil, stating, “Hosting the Festival in Franschhoek offers a unique opportunity to bridge cultural divides and create meaningful connections between emerging South African artists and the world’s top international artists and music industry leaders.” Goedvolk envisions the event becoming a beacon of excellence in hospitality and creativity.

Mathieu Jaton, CEO of the Montreux Jazz Festival, echoed this sentiment, emphasising the festival’s excitement to collaborate with local partners in a setting celebrated for its natural beauty and rich heritage. “We are honoured to work alongside local partners who share our passion for live music, creativity, and hospitality,” Jaton said.

Franschhoek’s selection as the festival’s first African venue not only spotlights its stunning landscapes and welcoming community but also positions the region to benefit significantly from increased tourism. Ruth McCourt, CEO of Franschhoek Wine Valley, regarded this milestone as transformative for the valley and the continent, stating, “As we continue to shine on the global cultural stage, this marks a monumental milestone not only for the valley but for the entire continent.”

After conducting an exploratory visit in January, festival planners confirmed Franschhoek as a prime location for the festival, emphasising the strategic importance of elevating the area’s profile and creating local employment opportunities.

Further enriching this cultural event will be the festival’s collaboration with the Uncorked Music Academy at the local high school. This partnership underlines the Montreux Jazz Artists Foundation’s commitment to nurturing talented emerging artists and fostering musical exchange through educational programmes. Both the festival and the foundation share a mission of social responsibility and the empowerment of communities through the arts.

As anticipation builds towards this landmark event, Franschhoek Tourism is inviting partnership proposals from potential sponsors and media collaborators keen to join in this historic occasion. Interested parties are encouraged to reach out directly to Ruth McCourt for collaboration opportunities.With the Montreux Jazz Festival on the horizon, Franschhoek is poised to establish itself as a leading venue for international events, offering a unique milieu that celebrates the universal language of music. This momentous occasion not only showcases the vibrant arts scene but also creates avenues for future artistic collaborations, positioning Africa on the global stage of cultural excellence.