Hermanus FynArts Festival 2026 Ushers in a Season of Renewal

Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra

Ticket sales for the 2026 Hermanus FynArts Festival opened on the 28th of February and some events are already sold out, with others selling fast.

For 2026, the Festival narrowed its focus to the Creative Arts, drawing inspiration from the well- known FynArts Festival project, Sculpture on the Cliffs. Located on the edge of the sea at Gearings Point, this project exemplifies how the sea is constantly renewed and transformed by every wave, tide, and season. This year marks a season of change for the Festival as well.

Anton Smit

Festival Dates and Headline Performances

The 2026 Hermanus FynArts Festival will be a shortened event, beginning on Saturday, June 6, with the opening performance by the internationally acclaimed Ndlovu Youth Choir. The Festival will conclude on Sunday, June 14, with a full symphony concert by the Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra (CPO).

In response to patrons’ feedback, the Festival organisers have worked to minimize overlapping events, ensuring that visitors are able to attend all events and exhibitions without scheduling conflicts.

Heleen De Haas

Recognising that winter in Hermanus brings early sunsets, all evening events will begin at 17h00. This timing allows guests to relax and enjoy dinner at one of Hermanus’s many excellent restaurants after a day of Festival experiences.

Graham du Plessis

Programme Highlights

The Festival has invited a number of exciting new artists for 2026, aiming to offer something for everyone—whether it be a show, discussion, or exhibition. Attendees can look forward to:

  • 14 music events featuring 145 musicians.
  • 2 plays.
  • 12 book events, including 26 authors, 11 discussion leaders, and
  • 2 breakfast events focused on current affairs and politics, sponsored by News24.
  • A number of Pop-Up events.
  • 19 exhibitions showcasing sculpture, paintings, ceramics, fibre art, and photography.
  • 7 culinary events.

Live Broadcasts

Nardus Engelbrecht

Fine Music Radio will broadcast live from the Burgundy Restaurant on the Hermanus Waterfront (with thanks to Strauss & Co.) from Monday, June 8, to Friday, June 12. Rodney Trudgeon will present his Classic Morning show starting at 9:00 AM each day.

Programme Access and Bookings

Printed programme booklets are distributed free of charge throughout the Overberg and Cape Town.

Linda Rademan

The 2026 Hermanus FynArts Festival website, where visitors can view the complete programme in chronological order, is at www.hermanusfynarts.co.za, with bookings directly from the website through Webtickets.

Welcome to the 2026 Hermanus FynArts Festival—this is your festival to enjoy!