South Africa’s longest-running music festival is gearing up for a landmark celebration. From 2 to 6 April 2026, Splashy Fen will once again turn the Southern Drakensberg into a playground of music, community, and open-air magic as it celebrates 35 years of memories, world-class performances, and thousands of festival friendships forged in the mud, the river, and the mountains.
After the 2025 festival sold out completely, anticipation for Splashy Fen 2026 has exploded. Early-access Otter Club tickets were snapped up instantly, and with Phase 1 tickets now on sale to the public, organisers are urging festivalgoers to secure their passes before they inevitably disappear again.
And now, the first wave of artists has officially been revealed.
Phase 1 Artist Line-Up: Splashy Fen 2026
- Jeremy Loops
- Billy Raffoul (Canada)
- Jack And The Weatherman (The Netherlands)
- Matthew Mole
- Veranda Panda
- Booshle G
- Jesse Clegg
- Louise Carver
- The Kickstands
- Tanner Wareham
- Angel Mazibuko
Headliners Set to Light Up the 35th Anniversary
This opening announcement delivers a potent mix of debut appearances, seasoned Splashy favourites, and homegrown stars who continue to push South African music into new territory.
Jeremy Loops
One of the most requested performers in Splashy history returns to the Main Stage. Jeremy Loops blends folk, electronic layers, and hip-hop influences with lyrics that hit close to home. He’s graced the Splashy lineup many times, but all signs point to 2026 being something extraordinary.
Matthew Mole
Fresh off a huge year of chart success and international touring, Matthew Mole brings his unmistakable sound back to the Drakensberg. His mix of heartfelt songwriting and infectious energy has made him one of the most beloved artists on the South African live circuit.
Veranda Panda – 2025 Golden Otter Award Winners
Winners of the prestigious Golden Otter Award in 2025, Veranda Panda return by overwhelming demand. Their genre-bending electronic-violin fusion helped define last year’s festival. Their collaboration with Angel Mazibuko, “Love Today,” from their Ascension EP, adds even more excitement to their 2026 performance.
Jesse Clegg – Splashy Debut
For the first time ever, Jesse Clegg steps onto the Splashy Fen stage. With hits such as “Let It Burn,” “Use Me,” and “Breathing,” Jesse’s polished live shows and international touring experience make his debut a major milestone for the festival.
Louise Carver – Splashy Debut
Louise Carver, one of South Africa’s most respected singer-songwriters, brings her catalogue of timeless hits to Splashy Fen for the first time. Known for classics like “Empty Fantasy,” “Home,” and her US Billboard #1 collaborations with DJ Joe Bermudez, Carver’s performance promises elegance, emotion, and a voice shaped by decades of excellence.
First International Acts Announced for 2026
Billy Raffoul (Canada)
Billy Raffoul’s gravel-edged vocals and internationally acclaimed songwriting finally arrive at Splashy Fen. Though he has toured South Africa before, this marks his first time performing at the festival — a long-awaited moment for fans who’ve followed his rise around the world.
Jack And The Weatherman (The Netherlands)
The Dutch acoustic-folk-pop duo will make their South African debut at Splashy Fen. Known for warm harmonies, upbeat rhythms, and a sound built from folk, reggae, and acoustic pop influences, Jack And The Weatherman are set to bring a burst of sunshine to the mountains.
What’s Waiting at Splashy Fen 2026
The 35th anniversary edition is shaping up to be one of the most ambitious yet, with:
- 6 live music stages
- More than 300 artists
- A wide selection of food trucks, artisan stalls, and vendors
- Improved facilities, including more showers
- Family-friendly zones and kids’ activities
- Free experiences such as yoga, workshops, and trail runs
- Convenient park-by-your-campsite options
Accommodation is already open for bookings, including powered camping spots and boutique glamping setups.
Tickets are selling quickly!
The 2025 edition of Splashy Fen was completely sold out and 2026 ticket sales are moving fast – fans are encouraged to book early to avoid disappointment.
- Get tickets at https://splashyfen.co.za/tickets/
- Check out accommodation options at https://splashyfen.co.za/accommodation/
A Celebration Three and a Half Decades in the Making
For 35 years, Splashy Fen has delivered iconic South African musical moments, unforgettable memories, and a sense of community unlike any other festival. The 2026 edition is shaping up to be its biggest celebration of music, mountains, and magic yet.
Pack the tents. Rally the crew. The Drakensberg is calling. See you at Splashy Fen 2026.
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