Johannesburg is set to become the heartbeat of the jazz world when the Standard Bank Joy of Jazz celebrates its 27th anniversary at the Sandton Convention Centre on 25 and 26 September 2026. More than 50 musicians from over 10 countries are expected to perform across four stages – Dinaledi, Diphala, Conga and Mbira – creating a rich tapestry of sounds influenced by Africa, Europe, East Asia and the Americas.
The festivities will get underway on Thursday, 24 September, with a free jazz experience at the Sandton City Rooftop on Level 7, offering live jazz in a vibrant setting ahead of the main festival weekend.
Among the artists scheduled to perform are McCoy Mrubata, Judith Sephuma, Ibrahim Maalouf, Kamasi Washington, Yonela Mnana, Gabi Motuba, Lorraine Klaasen, Nubya Garcia, Madala Kunene, Sibusile Xaba, Carmen Souza, Angélique Kidjo, Tank and the Bangas, Nomfusi, Anaïs Rosso, Thandiswa Mazwai and many more.
Joburg Tourism once again is partnering with the Standard Bank Joy of Jazz to position the city as Africa's leading destination for culture, lifestyle, entertainment and business tourism.
Executive Mayor of the City of Johannesburg Cllr Dada Morero says the 27th anniversary provides an important opportunity to celebrate Johannesburg's cultural identity while strengthening the City's reputation as a global events destination.
“The Joy of Jazz has become an important part of Johannesburg's cultural calendar and its 27th anniversary is a significant milestone. The festival brings together artists and audiences from across the world, giving us an opportunity to showcase Johannesburg as a dynamic, welcoming and culturally vibrant African city," says Mayor Morero.
Joburg Tourism extends the festival experience
Joburg Tourism will support the festival through the Jazzy Joburg Market and the #Welcome2Joburg stakeholder engagement platform. These initiatives will create opportunities for local businesses, tourism stakeholders and emerging entrepreneurs to connect with festivalgoers and visitors in a vibrant cultural environment.
“Johannesburg is a city driven by creativity, diversity and entrepreneurial spirit," says Belu Mabandla, Executive Head: Destination Marketing & Events at the Johannesburg Tourism Company.
“Historically, the festival has generated more than R34.5 million in direct spending, contributed approximately R86 million to the Gauteng economy and supported more than 1 200 temporary and permanent jobs across its value chain. The Jazzy Joburg Market itself supports more than 25 SMMEs annually, providing a platform for entrepreneurs to showcase and sell their products and services to a diverse audience," adds Mabandla.
Written by Luyanda Lunika
16/09/2026
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