Some festivals are about food. Others are about music.

The Education Africa International Marimba & Steelpan Festival brings the two together with something even more powerful: community.

From 24 to 26 July 2026, St Dominic's Catholic School for Girls in Boksburg will once again come alive with the sound of thousands of performers from South Africa and abroad. Hosted by Education Africa, the festival has grown into one of the world's largest marimba and steelpan gatherings, celebrating music, culture and inclusion.

More Than a Music Festival

The festival is about far more than competition.

Throughout the weekend, visitors can enjoy marimba and steelpan performances across multiple age groups, live entertainment, cultural performances and interactive workshops that introduce people of all ages to percussion, rhythm and dance.

Whether you already play an instrument or simply enjoy live music, you'll experience everything from traditional African rhythms to contemporary arrangements, popular songs and international influences.

The atmosphere is energetic, colourful and welcoming, making it just as enjoyable for first-time visitors as it is for dedicated music lovers.

Music That Changes Lives

What makes this festival truly special is the story behind it.

Education Africa's Marimba Programme has spent more than two decades using music to create opportunities for young people across Southern Africa. Through schools and community projects, thousands of children have learned confidence, teamwork and discipline while developing remarkable musical talent.

Many of the performers come from communities where opportunities for formal music education are limited. The festival gives them a platform to showcase their skills, perform alongside international musicians and inspire audiences through the universal language of music.

A Festival for the Whole Family

This is one of those rare events where every generation will find something to enjoy.

Children can discover new instruments, parents can enjoy live performances throughout the day, and music enthusiasts can watch some of the country's best marimba and steelpan ensembles perform on stage.

Interactive workshops give visitors the chance to experience the instruments first-hand, while food stalls and family-friendly entertainment create a relaxed atmosphere between performances.

Even if you've never heard a marimba orchestra before, you'll quickly understand why audiences return year after year.

Before You Go

• Dates: 24 to 26 July 2026
• Main Public Festival: Saturday 25 and Sunday 26 July
• Venue: St Dominic's Catholic School for Girls, Kruger Street, Boksburg
• Gates Open: 07:00 daily
• Performances: From 08:00
• Tickets: From R50
• Parking: Available at the venue
• Food & Drinks: Food vendors and refreshments available throughout the day
• Workshops: Interactive workshops included with selected spectator tickets
• Family Friendly: Suitable for all ages
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Why You Should Go

Winter weekends don't have to be spent indoors.

Whether you're looking for an affordable family outing, a chance to support young musicians or simply an opportunity to experience something different, the International Marimba & Steelpan Festival offers a joyful celebration of rhythm, culture and community unlike anything else on Johannesburg's events calendar.

The Bottom Line

Some events entertain. Others inspire.

The Education Africa International Marimba & Steelpan Festival does both, bringing together thousands of musicians, families and visitors for a weekend that celebrates talent, diversity and the power of music to connect people across cultures and generations.