JBay set for jam-packed December programme with JBay GrootFees 2026

JEFFREYS BAY – Jeffreys Bay is set to come alive this festive season with a jam-packed programme of music, entertainment, family activities and community events running from 17 to 31 December 2026, anchored by the inaugural JBay GrootFees 2026 at Main Beach.

Presented by Kouga Local Municipality, in partnership with Afrikaans is Groot and Colesky Artists, JBay GrootFees will take place on 17 and 31 December, bringing a star-studded line-up of South African artists to Jeffreys Bay.

The opening JBay GrootFees on 17 December will feature Ons, Jacobus, Demi Lee Moore, Kurt Darren, Early B and Gertjie, while the year-end celebration on 31 December will feature Dodo, Blackbyrd, Eloff, Prime Circle, Emo Adams, Jakkalsvibes and Gertjie, culminating in a spectacular fireworks display.

Kouga Executive Mayor, Hattingh Bornman, said the programme would add to the festive-season experience for residents and visitors while showcasing Jeffreys Bay as a vibrant destination.

“Jeffreys Bay is getting ready for an unforgettable December. From major concerts and live music to family activities, sporting events and community entertainment, there will be something for everyone to enjoy.”

“JBay GrootFees gives us an exciting opportunity to bring some of South Africa’s leading artists to our town while also creating a platform to showcase Jeffreys Bay, our local businesses, tourism offerings and the unique energy of Kouga during the festive season,” said Bornman.

The entertainment continues between the two GrootFees dates, ensuring that visitors have plenty to see and do throughout the holiday period.

The programme kicks off on 17 December with the Opening of Season, Light Tour, Score Touchies and the first JBay GrootFees concert, together with the official switching-on of the Christmas festive lights.

On 18 December, audiences can look forward to the much-loved Mamma Mia show, while 19 December will feature a Taylor Swift Tribute, together with performances by Jenedine Jantjies and SMYC.

From 20 to 24 December, an Art Exhibition will provide a platform for local creativity, while 20 December will also feature an Outdoor Church Service with Praise and Worship.

The programme continues on 21 December with a Country Evening, featuring performances by Ruan van der Kuil and Gertjie and Chantelle.

22 December promises a particularly family-focused day, with a Firefighter Demonstration, Bester die Renoster, Face Painting, Rick Mulder, Santa’s Beach Run, Harmony Brass Band, a Santa Visit, John Nelson and Christmas Carols.

The festive entertainment continues on 27 December with Classics under the Stars, featuring Jenedine Jantjies, Zadine McCarthy, John Nelson and Jannie Moolman.

The celebrations culminate on 31 December with the second JBay GrootFees of the season. The impressive line-up will provide the perfect soundtrack to welcome the new year, before the evening ends with a fireworks display.

“We want residents and visitors to experience more than just a single festival day. This programme creates a full festive-season experience, with entertainment and activities spread across December,” said Bornman.

“We encourage visitors to plan ahead, book their accommodation early and support our local tourism establishments, restaurants, retailers and other businesses. The festive season is an important time for our local economy, and we look forward to welcoming everyone to Jeffreys Bay.”

With its beaches, vibrant atmosphere and extensive programme of events, Jeffreys Bay is preparing for a busy festive season, with JBay GrootFees 2026 set to be one of the major highlights on the summer calendar.

All shows and activities on the festive programme are free of charge, giving residents and visitors the opportunity to enjoy a wide variety of entertainment and family-friendly activities throughout the festive season.