2027 Montreux Jazz Festival Franschhoek date set, after sold-out debut

Following a sold-out debut weekend, organisers have confirmed that Montreux Jazz Festival Franschhoek will return from 19–21 March 2027, positioning the event firmly on the global live music calendar. 

The inaugural edition took place from 27–29 March this past weekend, drawing a diverse audience of local and international visitors to the Franschhoek valley.  

The 2026 programme brought together an exceptional lineup of international and South African talent, setting a strong musical tone for the festival’s debut. Highlights included the infectious groove of Ezra Collective, the electrifying late-night performance of Róisín Murphy, and the soaring ballads of Matt Hansen. Wet Wet Wet delivered a wave of sing-along nostalgia, while South African icon Thandiswa Mazwai and the soulful Mandisi Dyantyis grounded the weekend in spirit and depth.

While the Montreux brand carries a global legacy of nearly six decades, the Franschhoek edition is quickly establishing its own identity - combining live music with food, wine and local culture in an elevated setting that felt both premium and personal this past weekend. 

“There was a particular energy across the weekend - one that built organically as people arrived, experienced it and shared it,” says Mark Goedvolk, Founder of the Montreux Jazz Festival Franschhoek. 

The programme brought together established international artists alongside South African talent and emerging voices, creating a cross-generational exchange that resonated strongly with audiences.

“As presenting partner, we are proud to have supported the inaugural festival and to see such a strong favourable response from audiences and our clients across the weekend,” said Buli Ndlovu, Executive Head of Personal and Private Banking Marketing at Nedbank.

Patricia de Lille, Minister of Tourism, noted that the event further strengthens South Africa’s position as a leading cultural tourism destination. “We look forward to building on this momentum as we anticipate the return of Montreux Jazz Festival Franschhoek in 2027,” added De Lille.

For further programme and ticket announcements for the 2027 festival keep an eye on www.mjfsa.com.