By Kevin Rademeyer.
Calabash South Africa will return in February 2026 with what organisers describe as the most expansive rock showcase the country has seen in years.
Big Concerts has confirmed that celebrated British trio Muse will lead a formidable roster, joined by international titans A Day To Remember, Simple Plan and Nothing But Thieves, along with a trio of South African favourites that continue to command strong local affection.
The announcement places Calabash firmly among the continent’s premier live events. Its reputation has grown rapidly since the breakthrough success of the 2024 and 2025 editions. Organisers intend to raise the standard once again with a production designed to deliver spectacle, precision and a genuinely global calibre of performance.
Muse’s confirmation as headliners will excite long standing followers of the group. The Devon formed band has built an extraordinary career since emerging in the late nineties, pairing Matt Bellamy’s unmistakable vocals with dramatic arrangements, experimental textures and an unmistakable theatrical flair.
Their catalogue of standout singles, including Uprising, Starlight and Supermassive Black Hole, has shaped an entire era of alternative rock. The band boasts consecutive UK chart toppers, multiple awards ranging from two Grammys to the coveted Ivor Novello for International Achievement, and album sales surpassing thirty million worldwide. Their live shows remain a benchmark for emotional intensity, technical complexity and visual scale, which makes their Calabash appearance one of the most anticipated concerts of the coming year.
A Day To Remember brings a different but complementary force. The Florida formed act has grown into one of the most influential rock groups of the twenty first century, propelled by platinum certified tracks and an immense global streaming presence. Their blend of hardcore power and melodic hooks gives them a reputation for riveting live energy, shaped through era defining favourites like All I Want, The Downfall of Us All and All My Friends. They arrive in South Africa at a moment when their global impact remains undiminished.
Simple Plan adds further depth to the bill. The Canadian group has consistently produced chart friendly rock that resonates across generations. Their unmistakable mix of earnest lyricism and accessible edge has earned them more than ten million album sales, a catalogue of multi platinum singles and a reach that extends far beyond the stage. Songs such as I am Just A Kid, Welcome To My Life and Perfect continue to enjoy renewed affection through their immense digital footprint.
Nothing But Thieves completes the international contingent with a sound defined by emotive alt rock, sharp songwriting and modern production. The Southend collective has generated more than one point six million album sales and an extensive worldwide streaming presence. Their ascent speaks to a band that connects powerfully across tastes and borders.
Calabash South Africa 2026 also honours its loyal home audience with a strong local lineup. Prime Circle will appear at both Johannesburg and Cape Town shows, bringing a repertoire of recognisable anthems that have long cemented their place in the nation’s rock landscape.
Van Pletzen joins the Johannesburg bill at FNB Stadium, promising a vibrant and feel good set infused with their trademark wit. Die Heuwels Fantasties, meanwhile, will open the Calabash stage in Cape Town at DHL Stadium with their distinctive blend of electronic pop and heartfelt storytelling, a fitting opening chapter for a night of world class performance.
Two stadium dates anchor the festival. Johannesburg’s FNB Stadium will host the first show on 7 February, followed by Cape Town’s DHL Stadium on 11 February. Each promises a different atmosphere but the same overarching goal: to deliver a night of exceptional craftsmanship and genuine musical celebration.
With a headline act at the height of its influence, a broad supporting lineup and a production scale that grows each year, Calabash South Africa 2026 is poised to set a defining standard for live music in the country. It signals a festival culture that is maturing with confidence and ambition, while giving audiences a rare opportunity to witness lineups that rival the world’s great open air showcases.
The festival dates are as follows:
FNB Stadium, Johannesburg, on 7 February 2026
DHL Stadium, Cape Town, on 11 February 2026.
Ticket sales phases release on the following dates:
Mastercard Presale opens Thursday, 11 December at 9am
Big Concerts Fan Club Presale on Friday, 12 December at 9am.
General tickets go on sale Saturday, 13 December at 9am, via Ticketmaster South Africa only.