Award-Winning Festival Expands to KwaZulu-Natal
Following a successful sold-out inaugural edition, Mayonie Open Air is set to make its highly anticipated Durban debut on 29 August 2026, bringing an immersive celebration of Afrohouse, Afrotech and South Africa’s rich dance music culture to KwaZulu-Natal.
Hosted at Chris Saunders Park in Umhlanga, the festival marks a significant milestone as it expands into one of the country’s most influential music provinces, offering fans an opportunity to experience the sounds, stories and artists that have shaped one of South Africa’s most celebrated cultural exports.
A Genre That Defines South African Identity
More than simply a style of music, Afrohouse has become a powerful expression of South African creativity, innovation and identity. Born from township dancefloors during the 1990s, the genre has evolved into a global movement while maintaining its deep connection to African rhythm, storytelling and culture.
Its foundations were built by pioneering figures including Oskido, Christos, Vinny Da Vinci and Glen Lewis, who helped establish a distinctly South African house music identity.
Alongside them, kwaito legends Mdu, Arthur and Trompies infused the genre with local languages, township culture and authentic storytelling, laying the foundation for what would eventually become Afrohouse.
From Local Dancefloors to Global Stages
Over the past two decades, South African artists have continued to elevate Afrohouse onto the international stage.
Global stars including Black Coffee, Culoe De Song, Heavy K, Zakes Bantwini, Sun-El Musician, Da Capo and Shimza have helped transform the sound into an internationally recognised movement.
Today, a new generation led by Thakzin, Enoo Napa, Oscar Mbo, Kususa and Karyendasoul continues to push Afrohouse and Afrotech into exciting new territory by blending soulful African influences with modern electronic production.
Durban’s Influence on the Afrohouse Movement
The arrival of Mayonie Open Air in Durban carries particular significance, recognising KwaZulu-Natal’s longstanding contribution to the evolution of Afrohouse and Afrotech.
The province has produced some of South Africa’s most influential artists, producers and cultural innovators, making Durban an ideal destination for a festival dedicated to honouring both the genre’s rich history and its exciting future.
A Festival That Unites Generations
Speaking about the vision behind the festival, Mayonie Open Air founder Zakes Bantwini said:
“Mayonie Open Air is a gathering of generations. It brings together the pioneers who laid the foundation, the artists shaping the sound today and the visionaries who will define its future.”
The festival aims to create a space where music lovers can celebrate the pioneers of Afrohouse while embracing the next generation of artists continuing to shape the genre’s evolution.
Event Details
Event: Mayonie Open Air Durban
Date: 29 August 2026
Venue: Chris Saunders Park
Time: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Ticket Information
Tickets are available exclusively through Howler.
