The iconic Cape Town International Jazz Festival (CTIJF) is set to make an unforgettable return to the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) on April 25 and 26.

Widely celebrated as Africa’s Grandest Gathering, this year’s festival promises a bigger and more exhilarating experience, featuring over 30 world-class artists and an exclusive world-first musical collaboration that will captivate music lovers across the globe.

The festival coincides with Freedom Day on April 27, making it a fitting celebration of the nation’s hard-fought freedom, which has opened South African music to the international stage and allowed the country to showcase its finest talent.

Festival organisers, espAfrika, promised to deliver another unforgettable festival experience with a carefully curated line-up reflecting the diversity of the audience, ensuring something for everyone to enjoy.

Since its inception in 2000, the CTIJF has established itself as one of the premier music festivals on the African continent. Held annually, it transforms Cape Town into a vibrant hub of musical creativity and cultural celebration, drawing thousands of local and international visitors.

The CTIJF is also a significant economic driver for the Western Cape.

According to research conducted by North West University’s Tourism Research in Economics, Environs and Society unit, the 2024 festival generated approximately R119 million in economic activity while creating between 444 and 1200 jobs in the region.

This includes employment in event management, technical production, security, catering, and hospitality services, reaffirming the festival’s impact on both the cultural and economic landscape of Cape Town.

The 2025 edition is set to raise the bar with several exciting additions including a world-class festival collaboration to be unveiled closer to the event, a brand-new culinary experience featuring a diverse range of local and international flavours to tantalise festivalgoers and exclusive hospitality lounges with luxurious spaces.

The much-anticipated Free Concert returns on the eve of the festival, allowing locals to experience world-class jazz without cost, reinforcing the festival’s commitment to accessibility and community spirit.

Additionally, the CTIJF Masterclasses will continue to inspire the next generation of artists. Featuring both local and international musicians, these workshops offer invaluable learning experiences for aspiring talent and jazz enthusiasts alike.

The festival’s unique blend of jazz, soul, funk, blues, and fusion continues to attract both jazz purists and modern music lovers, making it a must-attend event for all.

The first artist announcement will be in February, with ticket sales going live on 28 January via ticketmaster.co.za.

Cape Times