African cultural festivals scheduled for 2026 in South Africa and Malawi

Major cultural festivals are scheduled for 2026 in South Africa and Malawi. In Bloemfontein, the Mangaung African Cultural Festival (MACUFE) is running from September 3 to September 13, 2026. A featured production, ‘ARABANG – The Musical’, is set for September 9 and 10 at PACOFS. The musical aims to address Gender-Based Violence (GBV) through storytelling and music, featuring local Free State artists such as Phila Dlozi.

In Malawi, the Mulhako Wa Alhomwe cultural festival is scheduled for October 18, 2026, at the Chonde Cultural Village in Mulanje. Under the theme ‘Heritage Presentation for Sustainable Development’, the event focuses on Lhomwe heritage and its role in community development, tourism, and economic opportunity. The festival will showcase traditional dances, songs, customs, and craftsmanship.