Here in Joburg, jazz music never really went out of style. There’s a roster of regular events dedicated to the city’s hepcats. Whether you’re after a full-on festival with all the trimmings or just somewhere intimate where you can sit back and relax, here are the top jazz music events in Johannesburg.
Jazz events in Johannesburg
Sankayi Jazz Series
The Sankayi Restaurant & Lounge welcomes jazz lovers to enjoy four intimate nights of live music from some of South Africa’s most talented and revered artists with its Sankayi Jazz Series. Running weekly, the series offers a space where music, atmosphere, and hospitality come together.
Each Friday evening of the series features two sets by one artist, with a 30-minute interval between sets, and each performance is presented in a setting designed to balance concert listening with a premium dining experience.
The November iteration welcomes South African bassist, composer and bandleader Carlo Mombelli, South African bassist Dalisu Ndlazi, legendary African guitarist, singer-songwriter and composer Louis Mhlanga, multi-award-winning South African jazz pianist, composer, producer and bandleader Bokani Dyer, multi-award-winning jazz vocalist, composer and educator Nomfundo Xaluva, and the Scullery Quintet.
Cost: R400pp. Book via Quicket
When: Thursday, 5 and 12 November and every Friday from 6pm – 10.30pm
Where: Sankayi Restaurant & Lounge, Green Park Corner Lower Road corner, W Rd S, Morningside, Johannesburg
Explore the Sankayi Jazz Series
Sisonke Xonti Album Launch
The Sankayi Jazz Series presents the official Joburg launch of Sisonke Xonti’s powerful new album, uKholo, at The Market Theatre.
uKholo comes six years after the celebrated jazz saxophonist, composer and bandleader’s last album and explores themes of faith, hope, healing and resilience. uKholo, meaning faith, embodies the essence of faith in challenging times. Drawing on deeply resonant melodies and heartfelt lyrics, the album explores fear, grief, healing and solace. It encourages listeners to embrace peace, find strength in vulnerability and recognise the importance of community and connection.
Directed by Jefferson Tshabalala, the live presentation is a theatrical experience that combines powerful live jazz, storytelling, staging and visual elements to bring the story of uKholo to life. Xonti – who will be performing on saxophone and vocals – is joined by an exceptional ensemble of South African musicians:
- Benjamin Jephta on double bass
- Yonela Mnana on piano and vocals
- Ayanda Sikade on drums and vocals
- Keenan Ahrends on guitar and vocals
- Gontse Makhene on percussion
Cost: R300pp, book via Webtickets
When: Saturday, 7 November 2026 at 7pm
Where: John Kani Theatre at The Market Theatre, 138 Lilian Ngoyi St, Newtown, Johannesburg
Hugh’s Jazz Club Series
Hugh’s Jazz Club is a premium world-class club designed by Play Braamfontein in collaboration with the Hugh Masekela Heritage Foundation venue, paying homage to Hugh Masekela through curated performances in an intimate setting.
Every Thursday, the club provides a space for established musicians and emerging talents to express themselves and show off their skills and creativity.
One of the world’s finest musicians, Lucas Senyatso, kick off the November lineup, followed by Kids Love Jazz Band, then multi-award-winning trumpeter, composer, scholar and educator Robin Fassie whilst Swazi Dlamini closes out the month.
Cost: R300pp. Book via Quicket
When: Every Thursday, from 6pm
Where: Hugh’s Jazz Club, Level 13, 10 De Beer St, Braamfontein, Johannesburg
Sankayi Saturday Sessions
Sankayi Saturday Sessions is a brand-new recurring live music series, showcasing some of South Africa’s finest contemporary musicians and bands. Expanding on the success of the Sankayi Jazz Series, Saturday Sessions offers a relaxed and vibrant evening of outstanding live music in one of Johannesburg’s most distinctive dining venues.
The September iteration features the genre-defying work of The Brother Moves On. The Johannesburg-based performance ensemble merges music, performance art and political storytelling, moving between jazz, punk, indigenous music and avant-garde performance.
Cost: R400pp. Book via Quicket
When: Saturday, 31 October from 6pm to 11pm
Where: Sankayi Restaurant & Lounge, Green Park Corner, Morningside, Johannesburg
Jazz Sundays at Sanctuary Mandela
Every Sunday, jazz lovers are invited to enjoy live jazz, relaxed dining and meaningful connection at Sanctuary Mandela.
Set within Nelson Mandela’s former home in Houghton, Jazz Sundays brings together soulful music, warm hospitality, heritage and good food in one of Johannesburg’s most memorable settings.
Whether for the full dining experience or the music, guests are invited to slow down, gather and enjoy a Sunday afternoon filled with rhythm, flavour and atmosphere.
Cost: R800pp (show+3 course meal) | R3250pp (show online). Book online
When: Every Sunday from 12pm to 3pm
Where: Sanctuary Mandela, 4 13th Ave, Houghton Estate, Johannesburg
Jazz music festivals in Johannesburg
Hughfest
HughFest is an ever-expanding love letter to South Africa and the rest of the continent, celebrated through local musical talent.
Music lovers gather once again to celebrate South African diversity, bound by intergenerational conversations and creative environments rich with expression, all in the name of local jazz legend, Hugh Masekela. Bra Hugh’s ability to thrive and stay connected to his roots, while having the wings that made him fearless and adventurous, and his values of musical excellence, cultural pride, and social activism are all qualities reflected in HughFest.
In its fourth year at NIROX Sculpture Park, and its 12th year as a destination event on the South African cultural calendar, this year’s festival features The SN Project, Siya Makuzeni, Izingane Zoma, Internet Athi, Thando Zide, and Kabelo “Bouga Luv” Mabalane, pushing Bra Hugh’s unique, constantly evolving, vibrant creative vision ever forward.
Cost: From R650pp | R80 per child u12, book via Howler
When: Sunday, 29 November from 10am to 6pm
Where: NIROX Sculpture Park, 24 Kromdraai Rd, Kromdraai, Krugersdorp
Coming in 2027
Sankofa Heritage Festival
Join the legendary Thandiswa Mazwai as she launches the Sankofa Heritage Festival.
The Sankofa Heritage Festival is dedicated to preserving and celebrating indigenous African music, showcasing forms that are often underrepresented in mainstream spaces.
Thandiswa takes audiences on a journey through her musical evolution, reflecting on her rich legacy that has shaped contemporary South African music. This one-of-a-kind performance blends traditional elements with modern artistry and features a uniquely curated lineup of special guests.
Joined by celebrated local artist Msaki, Grammy-nominated American artist Somi, and more, each performance echoes ancestral rhythms, bridging the past, present, and future of African sound.
Cost: TBC
When: TBC
Where: TBC
Jazz in the Lights
The annual Jazz in the Lights Music Festival returns to the Johannesburg Zoo, once again treating jazz aficionados to incredible local and international performances.
The day is sure to be filled with fun for the entire family as younger guests can interact with the zoo animals and amenities, while jazz and music lovers enjoy the latest offerings from new musicians while basking in nostalgic classics from the legends.
The jam-packed lineup includes groundbreaking artists such as Africa Mkhize, Malcolm Jiyane, Xhanti Nokwali, Brenda Mtambo, Rorisang Sechele, Msaki, and many more.
Cost: TBC
When: TBC
Where: TBC
More on at the Goethe-Institut
DJ Bob Jazz Club Summer Sessions
DJ BOB Jazz Club returns taking over the Lawn Pavilion Lounge under the NIROX arbours as summer reaches full bloom.
Check out the musical odyssey by this maestro selector, come for the full day and bring the whole family. NIROX also introduced new picnic baskets as an added feature to the experience. Guests are encouraged to purchase a picnic ticket, which includes one picnic basket for two and entry to the DJ BOB Jazz Club.
Alternative lunch options are available courtesy of the Lawn Pavilion Café and Bernie’s Bar ensures that guests are elegantly hydrated throughout the day.
Cost: TBC
When: TBC
Where: TBC
Gauteng Soul And Jazz Concert
The annual Gauteng Soul and Jazz Concert is back by popular demand, bringing another prestigious concert experience to Pretoria.
The concert features South Africa’s top Afro-soul and jazz superstars under one Roof. These superstars include Zonke, Lira, Judith Sephuma, and Mafikizolo, as well as iconic American jazz saxophonist and songwriter Kirk Whalum.
Although tickets can be bought online, they are also available for purchase at Pick’n’Pay outlets nationwide.
Cost: TBC
When: TBC
Where: TBC
The Annual Mzantsi Jazz Awards
The 10th Mzantsi Jazz Awards marks a bold new era – a decade of championing South African jazz, now elevated onto the grand stage. This milestone season brings a powerful blend of legacy and innovation, honouring past winners and unveiling a new Africa‑wide jazz category.
Whether you’re a musician, a radio station championing jazz, an industry representative, or simply a lover of great music, you’re warmly invited to be part of this celebration. Jazz remains a vital thread in South Africa’s rich musical tapestry.
Cost: TBC
When: TBC
Where: TBC
The Bakwena Jazz Experience
The Bakwena Jazz Experience is a one-night-only celebration of world-class R&B, African jazz and soul, featuring legendary voices uniting with a new generation of excellence on one iconic stage.
Audiences can expect elegant production, immersive sound and an unforgettable atmosphere.
Cost: TBC
When: TBC
Where: TBC
NIROX Spring Jazz
Globally celebrated jazz artists hit the stage for this year’s NIROX Spring Jazz event, with audiences hearing sounds from Umgidi Ensemble, Modise Sekgothe, Nomfundo Xaluva, Abathwebuli Trio, and Shane Cooper & The Spirit Whisper.
The Epicurean Emporium and Bernie’s Bar also provide a variety of market-style gourmet cuisines and a curated selection of beverages for the event. Feel free to also indulge in nature and art whilst there.
Cost: TBC.
When: TBC
Where: NIROX Sculpture Park, R540 Kromdraai Rd, Kromdraai, Krugersdorp
Standard Bank Joy of Jazz
Standard Bank Joy of Jazz, Africa’s premier jazz festival, features an exciting line-up of headlining jazz stars from across the world.
Over two fun-filled days, across multiple stages, jazz lovers are reintroduced to the music, while novices discover the magic of jazz.
This year’s programme features a mix of international and South African artists across four stages, with Grammy-winning Beninese musician Angélique Kidjo leading the bill for international artists and joined by Kamasi Washington, who makes his Joy of Jazz debut.
The South African jazz artists performing at the festival include Thandiswa Mazwai, Judith Sephuma, McCoy Mrubata, Khaya Mahlangu, and Ndabo Zulu.
Cost: TBC
When: TBC
Where: TBC
Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestra Symphonic Jazz Festival
In celebration of Heritage Month, the Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestra Symphonic Jazz Festival invites you to this year’s vibrant world of South African jazz. The festival takes place at the Linder Auditorium and serves a rich tapestry of jazz music that honours the country’s beautiful musical heritage.
Conducted by Daniel Boico, the programme features Duke Ellington’s Nutcracker Suite and South African jazz veteran Victor Masondo’s Quartet.
Cost: TBC
When: TBC
Where: TBC
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