Rocking the Daisies has officially confirmed that its 2026 festival will no longer take place. The announcement was made through an official statement shared on the festival’s social media platforms, bringing an end to this year’s edition, which was scheduled for 2 to 4 October at Cloof Wine Estate in Darling, Western Cape.
In its statement, the organisers said that “despite multiple attempts to find solutions, a number of unforeseen circumstances beyond our control have made it impossible for Rocking the Daisies to proceed in 2026.”
The organisers added that the decision “was not made lightly,” while thanking patrons, artists, partners and everyone who had been looking forward to attending the annual festival.
Rocking the Daisies also confirmed that all ticket refunds will be processed automatically. According to the statement, refunds are expected to reflect in ticket holders’ accounts within one to three business days, with no action required from patrons.
Although the main festival has been cancelled, the organisers announced an alternative event. They revealed that a one-day show will be hosted through the IN THE CITY platform in both Johannesburg and Cape Town. The event is expected to feature a selection of both international and local artists, with further details to be announced through the festival’s official platforms. Ticket sales for the replacement event have already opened, according to the statement.
Before the cancellation, Rocking the Daisies had already begun unveiling its 2026 line-up. British singer-songwriter Jorja Smith was announced as one of the festival’s international headliners, marking her first appearance at the event. American rapper Isaiah Rashad was later confirmed for what would have been both his South African and African festival debut. Festival organisers had also indicated that additional local and international acts would be announced in the months leading up to the event.
The local bill included rapper Nasty C, singer Shekhinah, alternative R&B artist Lordkez and award-winning trio Mi Casa, who were set to celebrate 15 years of music at the festival. The announcements reflected the festival’s continued tradition of pairing internationally acclaimed performers with some of South Africa’s biggest and emerging acts.
Founded in 2005, Rocking the Daisies has grown into one of South Africa’s largest music and lifestyle festivals. Over the years, it has hosted internationally recognised artists including Stormzy, Mac Miller, JID, 6LACK, Clean Bandit, Snoh Aalegra, Summer Walker and Ayra Starr, while providing a major platform for South African performers across multiple genres. The festival has become known for combining live music, camping, fashion, food and art experiences, attracting thousands of attendees annually.
The cancellation means the festival will not celebrate its planned 21st edition in its traditional format this year. Organisers concluded their statement by thanking supporters for their continued backing and confirmed that more information regarding the replacement IN THE CITY events will be released in the coming weeks.
