Cape Town International Jazz Festival
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The Cape Town International Jazz Festival takes place annually in the Mother City, and showcases the talents of some of the world’s finest jazz musicians. Featuring acts from South Africa, Africa and abroad, the Jazz Festival is the city’s most prestigious musical event, and draws thousands of spectators each year.
The event takes place over two days, and for the last several years, has been held at the impressive Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) in the heart of Cape Town. The world’s leading jazz artists soothe the crowds with their soulful melodies, whilst local kwaito and hip hop stars add a uniquely South African twist to the event.
Special highlights at the Jazz Festival
While the Cape Town International Jazz Festival is primarily about showcasing the world’s best jazz talent, it also aims to help develop the industry locally by providing valuable advice and instruction. Several workshops and training sessions are held in conjunction with the festival, and are supported by some of the event’s leading performers.
A number of satellite events take place in the run-up to the two-day extravaganza, which is widely regarded as Africa’s grandest musical event. The most popular of these is the free concert at Cape Town’s historic Greenmarket Square, featuring several of the festival’s headlining acts. There’s also plenty on offer at the venue itself, including art and craft markets, beer tents, a large food court and entertainment for kids.
For jazz lovers of all ages, the Cape Town International Jazz Festival is a not-to-be-missed event, and it’s highly recommended that you book early! Also be sure to secure hotel accommodation in Cape Town close to the CTICC, and make the most of this music spectacular.