SPLASHY FEN REVEALS PHASE 1 ARTIST LINE-UP FOR ITS 35TH ANNIVERSARY FESTIVAL IN 2026
Jeremy Loops, Billy Raffoul [Canada], Jack And The Weatherman [Netherlands], Matthew Mole, Veranda Panda, and more set to light up the Drakensberg
South Africa’s longest running and most beloved music festival is gearing up for a milestone celebration. From 2–6 April 2026, Splashy Fen will once again transform the Southern Drakensberg into a music lover’s paradise as it marks 35 years of unforgettable memories, world-class live music, and community magic.
Following the overwhelming response to the 2025 edition, which sold out, excitement around Splashy Fen 2026 has surged. Early ticket sales have already set a powerful tone for the year ahead, with Otter Club members snapping up their exclusive early-access tickets. With Phase 1 tickets now available to the public, festival organisers are urging fans to secure their spots early, because Splashy Fen tickets don’t stick around for long.
And today, the festival is turning up the heat with the reveal of its highly anticipated Phase 1 Artist Line-Up.
PHASE 1 – SPLASHY FEN 2026 ARTIST LINE-UP
- Jeremy Loops
- Billy Raffoul [Canada]
- Jack And The Weatherman [Netherlands]
- Matthew Mole
- Veranda Panda
- Booshle G.
- Jesse Clegg
- Louise Carver
- The Kickstands
- Tanner Wareham
- Angel Mazibuko
BIG-NAME HEADLINERS READY TO ELECTRIFY THE 35TH ANNIVERSARY
This first wave of artists brings some of South Africa’s most celebrated talents to the Splashy stage, with a powerful mix of debut performers, festival favourites, and homegrown stars pushing boundaries in their genres.
Jeremy Loops
One of the most requested artists in Splashy history and one of SA’s biggest musical exports, Jeremy Loops returns to the Main Stage. Blending folk, electronic, and hip-hop influences, his music speaks to life, love, and pushing through the hard stuff, and as South Africans, we know those lyrics hit different. He’s played Splashy many times, but something tells us this 2026 set is going to be next level.
Matthew Mole
Fresh off a massive year, Matthew Mole continues to charm audiences nationwide with his heartfelt songwriting and high-energy performances. From breaking SA chart records to touring across Europe, he’s carved out a sound that’s totally his own and we can’t wait to hear it echo through the Splashy hills once again.
Veranda Panda – 2025 Golden Otter Award Winners
After taking home the coveted Golden Otter Award at Splashy Fen 2025, an honour reserved for artists who embody the festival’s spirit of creativity, community, and innovation, Veranda Panda return to the mountains by popular demand. The electronic-violin duo had an explosive year, including the release of their vibrant collaboration with Angel Mazibuko (also performing at Splashy Fen in 2026), titled “Love Today” from their latest release, Ascension EP.
Jesse Clegg – First Time Ever at Splashy Fen
For the first time in his stellar career, multi-platinum singer-songwriter Jesse Clegg will take to the Splashy Fen stage. Known for hits like “Let It Burn,” “Use Me,” and “Breathing,” Jesse brings a globally recognised catalogue shaped by sold-out tours, unforgettable collaborations, and a legacy of chart-topping music.
Louise Carver – Splashy Fen Debut
Also performing at Splashy Fen for the very first time is SA music royalty Louise Carver. With a career defined by multiple timeless hits such as “Empty Fantasy,” “Home,” and the US Billboard #1 smash hits “Sunrise” and “Crazy Enough” with DJ Joe Bermudez, Carver has long stood as one of the country’s most respected and versatile singer-songwriters. Her debut appearance promises a powerful, elegant, and unforgettable live set.
INTRODUCING THE FIRST INTERNATIONAL ACTS FOR 2026
Billy Raffoul (Canada)
Known for his raw, emotive vocals and internationally acclaimed songwriting, Billy Raffoul becomes one of Splashy Fen’s first announced international headliners for 2026. Although Raffoul has toured South Africa before and built a strong local fanbase, 2026 marks his debut appearance at Splashy Fen, bringing a long-awaited moment for festival fans who’ve followed his rise across global stages.
Jack And The Weatherman (Netherlands)
Known for their feel-good blend of folk, reggae, hip hop and acoustic pop, Dutch folk-pop duo Jack And The Weatherman will make their first-ever trip to South Africa. Beloved globally for their sun-soaked harmonies and feel-good acoustic energy, the duo now brings their uplifting live performance to South African soil, making their Splashy debut a truly special moment.
WHAT’S IN STORE FOR 2026
The 35th anniversary promises one of the festival’s most ambitious editions yet, featuring:
- 6 stages of live music
- 300+ artists, including international acts
- 30+ food trucks, stalls & artisan vendors
- More showers and updated festival facilities
- Family-friendly spaces and kids’ entertainment
- Free activities: yoga, trail runs, workshops & more
- Park-by-your-campsite convenience
Whether you’re a riverside regular or a luxury glamper, accommodation options are already open, including powered sites and boutique glamping setups.
TICKETS MOVING FAST
The 2025 edition was sold out and tickets for 2026 are selling fast, so fans are strongly encouraged to secure their passes early.
Tickets:https://splashyfen.co.za/tickets/
Accommodation:https://splashyfen.co.za/accommodation/
A CELEBRATION 35 YEARS IN THE MAKING
Splashy Fen has been home to some of South Africa’s most unforgettable musical moments for over three decades and 2026 promises to be the biggest celebration yet.
Pack your tents. Rally your friends. The mountains are calling.
See you at Splashy Fen 2026.
Follow Splashy Fen online:
Official Website: https://splashyfen.co.za/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/splashyfen
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/splashyfenfest
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@splashyfenfest
WhatsApp Channel: https://www.whatsapp.com/channel/0029Va9LNwI1noz8NuCNVm2c