Last Dance of the Season - Kirstenbosch Summer Sunset Concerts Close with a Celebratory March Line-up

As summer begins its gentle shift toward autumn, the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden prepares to host the final chapter of the 2025/2026 Summer Sunset Concerts season. Five distinctive concerts will take to the stage this March, each offering a powerful reminder of why this series remains one of Cape Town’s most treasured cultural traditions.

For months, music lovers have gathered on the lawns beneath Table Mountain, sharing picnics, stories, and songs as the sun sets behind the peaks. Now, the season draws to a close with a line-up that reflects the richness and diversity of South Africa’s musical landscape, from masterful instrumentals and soul-stirring vocals to contemporary pop energy and orchestral storytelling for the whole family.

The final stretch begins on Sunday, 1 March, with an extraordinary instrumental collaboration. Acclaimed guitarist Derek Gripper, celebrated for translating the intricate sounds of the West African kora onto classical guitar, will be joined by the Kyle Shepherd Trio. The trio unites Kyle Shepherd’s innovative compositions and expressive piano work with Shane Cooper’s virtuosic double bass and Jonno Sweetman’s dynamic drumming. Together, these three artists create a vibrant, globally acclaimed soundscape that balances technical brilliance with deep emotional storytelling rooted in South African culture.

On Sunday, 8 March, beloved singer-songwriter Matthew Mole returns to a stage that has become synonymous with his journey. Known for heartfelt lyrics, infectious melodies, and an uplifting live presence, Matthew’s performances at Kirstenbosch have become a highlight on the summer calendar. Audiences can expect an atmosphere filled with warmth, connection, and the anthems that have defined his enduring appeal.

The momentum continues on Sunday, 15 March, as iconic vocalist Thandiswa Mazwai graces the stage. A fearless storyteller with a commanding voice, Thandiswa draws inspiration from jazz, kwaito, traditional Xhosa music, and Afro-soul to craft performances that are both grounded and revolutionary. Her presence at Kirstenbosch promises an evening that is bold, moving, and unforgettable under the late-summer sky.

On Sunday, 22 March, rising pop talents Will Linley and Ben Rodrigues bring youthful energy and feel-good rhythms to the lawns. With catchy hooks, honest lyrics, and vibrant stage presence, both artists have captured audiences locally and abroad. Their shared showcase is set to transform the garden into a celebration of contemporary South African pop.

The season concludes on Sunday, 29 March, with a family-focused orchestral experience led by the Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra, joined by storyteller and performer Rob van Vuuren. From the timeless charm of Peter and the Wolf to beloved themes from Frozen and Star Wars, this magical afternoon concert invites audiences of all ages to experience the wonder of live symphonic music in one of the country’s most breathtaking settings.

Reflecting on the final month of the season, Sarah Struys, Events and Tourism Manager at Kirstenbosch, says: “March at Kirstenbosch carries a special kind of magic. As summer lingers and the garden begins to shift in colour, the music feels even more meaningful and celebratory. This closing line-up showcases the depth of South African talent and the shared joy that live performance brings to our community. We encourage everyone to join us for these final concerts and be part of the last dance of a truly memorable season.”

The Kirstenbosch Summer Sunset Concerts remain a highlight of Cape Town’s social and cultural calendar, drawing families, friends, and music enthusiasts together year after year. As the 2025/2026 season comes to a close, these final five performances offer one last opportunity to gather on the lawns, embrace the music, and celebrate summer in the garden.

CONCERT & TICKET DETAILS:

Venue: Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, Rhodes Drive, Newlands, Cape TownTime: Gates open at 16:00. Concerts start at 17:15, unless otherwise stated.Tickets: Available exclusively via Webtickets and at the Kirstenbosch Ticket Office.Ticket Prices:Adults: R360Youth (6–21 years with ID): R255Children (0–5 years): Free

Tickets purchased from any source other than Webtickets or the Kirstenbosch Ticket Office cannot be guaranteed. All concerts are non-smoking events, and a zero-tolerance policy will be enforced.

Do not miss the final notes of summer at Kirstenbosch. Join the conversation and share your experience using #KBRocks.