Sponsored Content
PRINCE ALBERT NEWS - If you’re looking for a weekend away that offers more than just great music, Journey to Jazz in Prince Albert might be exactly what you need.
Taking place from 30 April to 3 May, this much-loved festival is just a short, scenic drive from Oudtshoorn - and offers something a little different from the usual festival experience.
At its heart, Journey to Jazz is about connection. Yes, there’s world-class music - but there’s also time to slow down, meet people, explore the town, and be part of something that feels personal and welcoming.
You don’t just watch performances. You move with them and through them.
Start with sunrise
The festival opens on International Jazz Day (30 April) with a sunrise concert at Krittikom Koppie - one of the most talked-about moments from last year.
As the sun rises over the Swartberg Mountains, the music begins gently, setting the tone for the weekend ahead.
It’s simple, beautiful - and well worth the early wake-up.
Greet, meet and be part of it
One of the most unique parts of Journey to Jazz is the Greet & Meet programme, inspired by Prince Albert’s motto: “Groet is ’n Moet” - to greet is a must.
This is where the festival really comes alive. Visitors are invited into the heart of the town through:
- Local food and craft stalls
- Walking tours and storytelling
- Poetry, art and live music in unexpected spaces
- Relaxed gatherings where locals and visitors connect
It’s not just something to attend - it’s something to join.
On opening day, the festival introduces its first-ever Sagra at the PACT Centre in Noordeinde - a relaxed food gathering centred around dough in all its forms. Think vetkoek, baked treats, and shared tables. It’s about breaking bread together - simple, social and full of flavour.
For those wanting to go deeper, the masterclasses and talks programme offers a chance to engage with the music in a different way. Highlights include:
- DJ Bob’s Masterclass - learn how to create your own jazz playlist and understand the art of listening
- Jazz in Africa with Ntone Edjabe - a journey through the continent’s musical roots
- Karoo Jazz Project sessions - showcasing and developing young local talent
- Conversations and panels with leading South African artists
These sessions are open, engaging and welcoming - no prior knowledge needed.
A line-up worth experiencing
The 2026 programme brings together an exciting mix of artists, including:
- Zoë Modiga - performing a special set in the Swartberg Pass
- Vusi Mahlasela - one of South Africa’s most beloved voices
- Kyle Shepherd - presenting a world premiere score alongside the films of William Kentridge
- Paul Hanmer - jazz pianist and mentor to the Karoo Jazz Project
- Nomfundo Xaluva, Linda Sikhakhane, Yonela Mnana, Paras ‘Sibalukhulu’ Dlamini and more
Alongside them, the Karoo Jazz Project continues to shine a spotlight on emerging local talent - making this festival as much about the future as it is about the present.
Stay a little longer
Why not make a full weekend of it?
Camping options are available for those wanting to stay close to the action - or explore the many charming guesthouses in and around Prince Albert.
Plan your visit
- Prince Albert (just over an hour from Oudtshoorn)
- 30 April - 3 May
Tickets available via Quicket
Presented by the Prince Albert Community Trust (PACT), Journey to Jazz is about more than entertainment. Every ticket sold supports youth development, skills training and opportunities in the region - making your weekend away part of something bigger.
See You in Prince Albert
If you’ve been before, you’ll know.
If you haven’t - this might be the year.
Come for the music. Stay for the experience. Leave with something more.
‘We bring you the latest Garden Route, Hessequa, Karoo news’
