Sunset Music Series at Walter Sisulu Botanical Garden: Here’s the 2026 Lineup

Launched in June 2025, the Sunset Music Series has quickly become one of Johannesburg’s most anticipated outdoor concert experiences. Gigs are set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden in Roodepoort; the series transforms its lush, rolling lawns into a stage for South Africa’s finest musical talent. Read on to find out more:

Sjava

The Sunset Music Series brings the magic of music and nature together, with a performance by the multi-award-winning, multi-platinum-selling South African artist Sjava.

Well-known for his unique style of mixing Zulu storytelling, Afro-soul, and hip-hop, Sjava began his career as an actor in 2005, starring in popular TV shows like Zone 14, Generations, and Isibaya before rising to musical fame after being featured on Miss Pru’s 2015 hit ‘Ameni’. He later released his debut album, ‘Isina Muva’, in 2016, which was certified gold and featured hits like ‘Uthando’.

He released three more studio albums and EPs, all of which garnered critical acclaim, and even earned him a prestigious BET Award in 2018 and enough attention to be featured on the official Black Panther album curated by Kendrick Lamar.

Cost: From R195pp, book via Webtickets

When: Saturday, 12 September, from 1pm to 5pm
Where: Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden, Malcolm Road, Poortview, Roodepoort

Mango Groove

Taking over Heritage Day weekend is Mango Groove, an 11-piece Afropop group formed in 1984 in Johannesburg by John Leyden, Andy Craggs, Bertrand Mouton, and kwela artist ‘Big Voice’ Jack Lerole.

The multi-racial group is fronted by singer Claire Johnston and famous for blending traditional township styles like kwela and marabi with pop, big brass, and penny whistle.

As they emerged during the Apartheid years, their music and multiracial lineup made them synonymous with the ‘Rainbow Nation’ idea, and their self-titled debut album, released in 1989, became a massive hit, breaking sales records in South Africa and launching the group into superstardom.

With hits like ‘Special Star’, ‘Dance Sum More’, and ‘Another Country’, the group has enjoyed over 10 number 1 hits, accumulated many awards, and continues to celebrate over 40 years of the unifying power of their music.

Cost: From R195pp, book via Webtickets

When: Thursday, 24 September from 1pm to 5pm
Where: Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden, Malcolm Road, Poortview, Roodepoort

Ami Faku & Manana Sunset Music Series — Ami Faku and Manana

Ami Faku and Manana

The Sunset Music Series brings a powerhouse double bill as two of South Africa’s most soulful artists share the stage for a one-of-a-kind concert under the Jozi skies.

Eastern Cape-bred Ami Faku is a soulful powerhouse who blends Afro-soul, R&B, and contemporary African sounds. In 2020, her debut album, ‘Imali’, which featured ‘Abalele’ and ‘Asibe Happy’ with Kabza De Small and DJ Maphorisa, won her a SAMA for Best Female Artist of the Year, cementing her as one of the most captivating artists of her generation. With a voice that conveys emotion and her commitment to raw authenticity, Ami continues to create music that is both personal and universally relatable.

Joining her on the day is Grammy-winning, Afro-soul and R&B singer, songwriter, and producer Manana. Born in Eswatini, Manana is celebrated for his powerful vocals and heartfelt storytelling, with songs that blend soulful melodies with rich cultural rhythms, inspiring listeners and promoting unity through authentic, emotive performances. Beyond his music, Manana is also an acclaimed songwriter, having written hits for Burna Boy (‘Time Flies’) and Sauti Sol (‘Feel My Love’).

Cost: From R195pp, book via Webtickets

When: Saturday, 24 October from 1pm to 5pm
Where: Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden, Malcolm Road, Poortview, Roodepoort

Msaki & Thando Zide Sunset Music Series | What's On In Joburg — Msaki and Thando Zide Sunset Music Series

Msaki and Thando Zide

The Sunset Music Series brings together two of South African female powerhouses to share the stage for a one-of-a-kind concert in Joburg’s greenest garden.

Beloved SAMA Award-winning artist and South African singer-songwriter and composer Msaki is celebrated for her soulful voice and poetic lyrics. Famous for blending folk, jazz, and Afro-soul, she brings her emotive voice and soulful sound to the stage.

Hailing from Soweto, rising singer Thando Zide’s debut EP Umvulo, which featured songs like ‘iNtwenhle’ and ‘iLanga Lakho’, and her 2026 release ‘Ku Ngawe’, showcased her soulful blend of African soul, contemporary R&B, jazz, and indigenous sounds. With her music exploring vulnerability, healing, and cultural expression through heartfelt storytelling, she continues to bridge traditional African roots with modern soul.

Cost: From R195pp, book via Webtickets

When: Saturday, 7 November from 1pm to 5pm
Where: Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden, Malcolm Road, Poortview, Roodepoort

Need to know before you go

Planning your visit to the Sunset Music Series at Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden? Here’s what you need to know to make the most of your picnic-style evening. Guests are welcome to bring along their own food in picnic baskets or bags, as well as comfortable camp chairs and blankets for lounging on the lawn. Small umbrellas may be used, but to ensure clear views for everyone, these must be set up at the back of the venue.

Please note that cooler boxes, glass items, tables, and gazebos are not permitted. To maintain a relaxed and family-friendly atmosphere, children under the age of five enjoy free entry.

We recommend you arrive early to settle in at a spot of your choice underneath the trees.