Milk and Cookies Festival in Joburg: Kaytranada Returns in 2026, Olivia Dean Headlines in 2027

Milk and Cookies is gearing up for a big return to Johannesburg with its much-anticipated 2027 South Africa festival, culminating in the main concert featuring global headliner Olivia Dean and another surprise guest yet to be announced on 31 January 2027.

After a groundbreaking debut in 2025 that drew more than 20,000 attendees, the upcoming edition promises to elevate the experience with an expanded programme rooted in music, creativity and community.

Milk + Cookies music festivals in Johannesburg

The Road to Milk and Cookies: Back to Nada

Milk and Cookies are bringing back their first-ever headliner, Kaytranada, for the official Milk and Cookies Music Week pregame.

For Back to Nada, the internationally beloved Canadian DJ brings that unmistakable sound back to Cape Town and Johannesburg, where the Milk and Cookies journey first began in 2025.

Supporting acts for the Joburg leg include rapper and Kaytranada’s brother Lou Phelps, Mchlsn, Muzi, Shamiso, Thakzin and Yolophonik.

Cost: From R849pp (general admission); from R1399pp (VIP). Sign up/book via Howler

When: Sunday, 20 December 2026 from 2pm to 2am
Where: Johannesburg Expo Centre, Nasrec rd, corner Rand Show Rd, Nasrec, Johannesburg

Milk and Cookies Festival Olivia Dean | What's on in Joburg

What to expect at the next edition of Milk and Cookies

More than just a music festival, Milk and Cookies 2027 promises a dynamic cultural experience. Festivalgoers can expect a vibrant atmosphere grounded in creativity and connection, with a programme that extends far beyond the main stage.

Writing camps will bring together producers, vocalists, and songwriters; industry panels will connect South African innovators with global leaders; merch pop-ups will spotlight local designers; and community-focused initiatives will ensure the festival’s impact is felt throughout the creative economy.

Milk and Cookies Festival Zee Nxumalo and Jade T by Nondumiso Shange — Zee Nxumalo and Jade T (photographed by Nondumiso Shange)

See the Joburg artist lineup for 2027

This year, fans get the opportunity of a lifetime to see neo-soul and jazz darling Olivia Dean on the stage. With hits such as ‘Man I Need’, ‘Lady Lady’ and ‘A Couple Minutes’ from her hit album The Art of Loving, this is an opportunity for South African fans to sing their hearts out. Keep an eye out for the second headliner announcement.

Milk and Cookies 2026 showcases a powerful blend of established names and rising stars. Fans can also catch local talents including songstress Zee Nxumalo and dynamic DJ Jade T, with more acts to be announced.

The local lineup selection reflects the diversity of South Africa’s soundscape – from amapiano and gqom to hip-hop, house and R&B. With homegrown talent at its core, the festival continues its mission to celebrate South African artistry while bridging the gap between local and international audiences.