The Hilton Arts Festival 2026

The Hilton Arts Festival returns to Hilton College in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands from 7 to 9 August 2026 for a weekend packed with theatre, live music, comedy, visual arts, shopping, and family-friendly entertainment. Now in its 34th year, the festival is one of South Africa's leading cultural events, attracting more than 25,000 visitors annually.

This year's programme includes headline performances by Arno Carstens and the Drakensberg Boys Choir, alongside an exciting mix of theatre, jazz, classical music, rock, hip-hop, cabaret, and comedy. New additions for 2026 include the KZN Art Fair, showcasing the province's visual artists and galleries, and Just Geekin', a dedicated pop culture zone celebrating gaming, comics, cosplay, and eSports.

Visitors can also browse the Craft Market with more than 100 stalls, explore the Design & Makers Quarter, enjoy children's theatre and family entertainment, attend talks and workshops, and experience film screenings and birding activities.

When: Friday, 7 to Sunday, 9 August 2026

Where: Hilton College, Hilton, KwaZulu-Natal Midlands

Cost: Tickets are available via Webtickets. Festival parking costs R100 per vehicle and is valid for all three days. The festival operates as a cashless event.

For the full programme and bookings, visit the Hilton Arts Festival website.