Cape Town’s most beloved New Year’s Eve tradition is set to reach new heights this year as Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden hosts an unforgettable celebration featuring South African music icons Mango Groove alongside the internationally acclaimed Alexander Broussard & Band presenting The Billy Joel Experience.
The 31 December concert marks a milestone moment as Mango Groove celebrates four decades of musical excellence, bringing their genre-bending blend of marabi, kwela and pop back to the iconic venue where they kicked off their 40th anniversary year in January 2025.
“We can’t wait! We kicked off 2025 with our 40th Anniversary Concert at Kirstenbosch, so it seemed fitting that we see in 2026 at the same, gorgeous venue,” says lead vocalist Claire Johnston. “There really is nowhere else we would rather be! We promise to bring a huge party, something different and an all-in blast!”
International talent meets local legend
The evening will also showcase Alexander Broussard & The Billy Joel Experience, a world-class tribute act from the Netherlands that has garnered international acclaim for channeling the energy, emotion and piano mastery of Billy Joel’s most beloved songs.
“Performing at the breathtaking Kirstenbosch Gardens on New Year’s Eve is a dream come true,” says Broussard. “We can’t wait to celebrate under the Cape Town stars with an unforgettable night of Billy Joel’s timeless music.”
Audiences can expect a singalong spectacle featuring classics from “Piano Man” to “Uptown Girl” and beyond, while Mango Groove will deliver their signature hits including “Special Star,” “Dance Some More,” and “Moments Away.”
A cherished Cape Town tradition
The annual Kirstenbosch New Year’s Eve concert has become a cornerstone of Cape Town’s cultural calendar, drawing thousands to celebrate safely in the open-air amphitheater with the majestic Table Mountain providing a stunning backdrop.
“We are beyond excited to host Mango Groove as they mark four decades of iconic music, and to welcome Alexander Broussard’s Billy Joel Experience to Kirstenbosch for the first time,” says Sarah Struys, Events and Tourism Manager at Kirstenbosch. “This concert is the ultimate celebration of togetherness, good memories and new beginnings.”
The celebration begins with gates opening at 19:00 on Wednesday, 31 December. The Billy Joel Experience will take the stage from 20:30 until 22:00, followed by Mango Groove from 22:30 to midnight, ensuring revelers ring in 2026 with South African musical royalty.
Tickets are priced at R540 each and are available exclusively through Webtickets or at the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden Ticket Office. Organisers warn against third-party resellers, noting that tickets purchased outside official channels do not guarantee entry. Children over two years old require tickets.
Concert-goers are welcome to bring picnic baskets and alcoholic beverages, though no alcohol will be sold at the venue. Food and non-alcoholic beverages will be available through Moyo Restaurant’s outlets in the concert area.
As 2025 draws to a close, this spectacular evening promises to be the perfect finale – a celebration of musical heritage, international artistry, and the timeless magic that only Kirstenbosch can provide.
