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Feel like relaxing next to a river with a picnic, great music, and some of KZN’s best scenery?
Great! Music on the River 3.0 takes place on Saturday, 1 August, transforming the picturesque banks of the Umgeni River at Hebron Haven Hotel in Dargle into an outdoor celebration of live music and community spirit.
Set against one of the KZN Midlands' most beautiful natural backdrops, the family-friendly festival invites visitors to spend the afternoon relaxing on picnic blankets, enjoying original South African music, browsing food stalls, and soaking up the laid-back country atmosphere.
The festival was created in 2021 as South Africans emerged from lockdown restrictions, to reconnect people through live music in beautiful outdoor spaces.
Founder and musician Tyran Roy explains the inspiration behind this year's revival:
"After moving to the Midlands a little over a year ago, I thought with all the beautiful outdoor space surrounding us that I would revive Music on the River and find a local venue with a serene space on a riverbank to stick with tradition.
“We had been visiting Hebron Haven Hotel quite often since moving to the Dargle when, one evening, Kellen and I decided to take a walk to the bottom of the property and lo and behold we found a beautiful field on the Umngeni Riverbank.”
Roy says the festival is about far more than entertainment.
"Music on the River was created with the intention of building community and providing an opportunity for friends and families to get together on common ground, in a natural outdoor setting.
“What sets us apart from most live music events is that our aim has always been to provide grassroots musicians and experienced bands with a platform, not only to sing and entertain but to perform their original material, which we encourage to the highest degree. This way the audience is also exposed to new music and stories all born from South African experiences.”
This year's line-up includes:
- Calling Kaine, a KZN-born songwriter currently based in Bethlehem.
- Tyran Roy and Kellen Crystin performing mostly original songs with one or two of their favourite covers in between.
- The Occasionals bring a six-piece, big-band sound including trumpets and saxophones for an energetic performance with them.
- And more announcements to follow!
With food vendors, a beer garden, riverside picnic spots and a dedicated kids' play area, it's the perfect excuse for a winter day trip to the KZN Midlands.
READ: Oppi Kus Music Festival returns to the KZN South Coast this weekend!
What you need to know
- Event: Music on the River 3.0
- Date: Saturday, 1 August 2026
- Time: Gates open at 12pm | Music starts around 1pm
- Venue: Hebron Haven Hotel, Dargle, KZN Midlands
- Tickets: Early Bird R100 via Quicket (limited!) | Children U13 are free | Pensioners discount available at the gate
Take Note: Visitors are encouraged to bring camping chairs, picnic blankets and snacks. all alcoholic beverages will be available from the licensed Hebron Haven bar and beer tent. After the live music wraps up around sunset, guests are welcome to enjoy dinner or drinks at the hotel's restaurant.
Whether you're a music fan or just need a really relaxing time out in nature, Music on the River promises one of the region's most memorable winter weekends.
READ: Kids bored at home? Here’s what they can do in Durban this holiday!
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