South Africans looking for a unique Father’s Day experience will have the opportunity to celebrate some of the country’s most respected musicians at Nirox Sculpture Park on 21 June 2026. The annual Honour the Fathers concert returns to the Cradle of Humankind, bringing together legendary performers, live music, outdoor art and family-friendly experiences in one of Gauteng’s most distinctive cultural venues. The event honours fathers, grandfathers, father figures and the elder statesmen of South African music whose work has shaped the country’s cultural identity over decades.
Taking place on Father’s Day, the event is expected to attract music lovers from across Gauteng and beyond, with organisers promising a full day of performances in the park’s natural amphitheatre.
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What Is Honour the Fathers 2026?
Honour the Fathers is an annual live music event hosted at Nirox Sculpture Park in the Cradle of Humankind.
The concert celebrates the contribution of South African music legends while creating a space for families to spend Father’s Day together through music, art and nature.
According to organisers, the event specifically recognises fathers, grandfathers, stepfathers, fathers-to-be and father figures, while also paying tribute to influential musicians whose careers have impacted generations of South Africans.
When and Where Is the Event Taking Place?
The event will take place on:
- Date: Sunday, 21 June 2026
- Venue: Nirox Sculpture Park
- Location: Cradle of Humankind, Gauteng
- Gates Open: 10:00
- Performances: Throughout the day until sunset
The venue, located within Gauteng’s World Heritage Site region, has become known for combining contemporary art, landscaped gardens and live cultural experiences.
Which Artists Will Perform?
This year’s programme features some of South Africa’s most celebrated musicians.
The lineup includes:
- Vusi Mahlasela
- Herbie Tsoaeli with Kwanti Leeh!
- Andile Yenana
- Ayanda Sikade
- Sisonke Xonti
- Selaelo Selota
- Madala Kunene
- Neo Muyanga and Gris Gris
- Tidal Waves
The programme spans folk, jazz, indigenous music and contemporary South African sounds, creating a multigenerational experience for audiences.
Why This Event Matters for Gauteng
Gauteng hosts hundreds of concerts and festivals each year, but Honour the Fathers occupies a unique position within the province’s cultural calendar.
Unlike conventional music festivals, the event combines:
- Live music performances
- Outdoor sculpture exhibitions
- Family-focused Father’s Day celebrations
- Food and beverage experiences
- Heritage tourism within the Cradle of Humankind
The event also contributes to Gauteng’s growing reputation as a destination for cultural tourism and outdoor entertainment.
Visitors attending the concert are able to experience one of the province’s most significant artistic and environmental spaces while supporting local arts programming.
Food, Drinks and Visitor Experience
Organisers say visitors can expect a full-day outdoor experience.
The event will feature the Epicurean Emporium, offering food and dessert options from various traders.
Bernie’s Bar will provide beverages including wines, cocktails and sparkling drinks throughout the day.
The combination of music, art installations and open-air surroundings has become one of the defining features of Nirox events.
Ticket Prices for Honour the Fathers 2026
Ticket categories include:
| Ticket Type | Price |
|---|---|
| Early Bird | R400 |
| General Admission | R500 |
| Final Admission | R600 |
| Children Under 12 | R80 |
| Children 2 and Under | Free |
Organisers have indicated that ticket availability is limited.
About Nirox Sculpture Park
Nirox operates as a private not-for-profit foundation dedicated to supporting the arts.
According to organisers, revenue generated through events contributes towards:
- Maintenance of the sculpture park
- Artist residency programmes
- Support for artists
- Cultural programming and exhibitions
The venue has become one of Gauteng’s best-known destinations for combining visual arts, performance and nature-based experiences.
What This Means for Gauteng Residents
For Gauteng residents looking for Father’s Day activities, Honour the Fathers offers an alternative to traditional restaurant outings or shopping-centre events.
The concert provides an opportunity to experience live performances by some of South Africa’s most respected musicians while exploring one of the province’s leading cultural attractions.
The event also highlights the growing role of arts and cultural tourism in Gauteng, where festivals and live performances continue to attract visitors from across the province.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Honour the Fathers 2026?
The event takes place on Sunday, 21 June 2026, which coincides with Father’s Day.
Where is the event being held?
The concert will be hosted at Nirox Sculpture Park in the Cradle of Humankind, Gauteng.
What time do gates open?
Gates open at 10:00 and performances continue throughout the day until sunset.
Who is performing?
The lineup includes Vusi Mahlasela, Selaelo Selota, Madala Kunene, Neo Muyanga’s Gris Gris, Tidal Waves and Kwanti Leeh! featuring leading South African jazz musicians.
Can children attend?
Yes. Children under 12 pay R80, while children aged two and under enter free.
What Happens Next?
Honour the Fathers 2026 is scheduled to take place on 21 June, with limited tickets currently available. Organisers have confirmed a full programme of live music, food experiences and outdoor activities throughout the day, with performances concluding at sunset.
