DURBAN, KWAZULU-NATAL — The wait is over, and the countdown has officially begun. Gagasi FM, the Sound of KZN, is thrilled to announce the return of KwaZulu-Natal’s most iconic summer celebration — the Gagasi FM Beach Festival — taking place on Saturday, 5 December 2026 at the iconic Moses Mabhida People’s Park in Durban. Back by popular demand, this electrifying festival promises to be bigger, bolder and more unforgettable than ever before.
Each year, the first weekend of December signals the start of the festive season in KwaZulu-Natal, and the Gagasi FM Beach Festival has become the ultimate summer kick-off event. Known for its sold-out success, the festival has grown into a powerful celebration of music, culture and community, cementing its place as one of South Africa’s premier live music experiences.
A sold-out 2025 set the bar
As the sun rose over Moses Mabhida Stadium’s People’s Park and warmed the Durban shoreline, the sold-out 12th Annual Gagasi FM Beach Fest 2025 erupted into motion. The festival opened with a sweeping drone shot capturing the iconic Beach Fest main stage and thousands of excited fans gathering to celebrate what has become KZN’s biggest and most beloved summer tradition. If ever there was a moment that embodied The Sound of KZN, this was it.
Over 12,000 passionate music lovers descended on Durban for a day of world-class performances and vibes. The line-up included heavyweights such as Maphorisa, K.O, Nasty C, Morda, Oscar Mbo, Blxckie, Sjava, Jazz World & Thukuthela, DJ Tira, DJ Sox, MaWhoo, Dladla Mshunqisi, Zee Nxumalo, CiCi, GoldMax, Mgilane, Sizwe Mdlalose, Duncan, Beast, Okmalumkoolkat, Trompies, Mafikizolo, Zakwe and Dumi Mkokstad, among others.
The event wasn’t just a festival — bekuyi i-Summer, a full-on celebration of South African music and proof of Gagasi FM’s unshakable connection with abalaleli.
The meticulously designed VIP and VVIP sections were another standout highlight. Offering plush seating, private bars and panoramic views of the stage, these premium areas provided an exclusive touch of luxury, giving festivalgoers the chance to enjoy the music in true sophistication and style.
Adding to the magic, Gagasi FM’s dynamic on-air talent — including DJ HappyGal, Njabs Zwane, Lwandle Masoka, Felix Hlophe, Nkule Mbatha, Heazy, Minnie Ntuli, Mkay Music, S’Phokuhle Luthuli, Collen Zondo, Sizwe Sibisi, Khaya Mthethwa and the No.1 Superhero DJ Sonic — kept the crowd buzzing, hyping the audience and delivering an unmatched energy that made the festival a resounding success.
Turning up the heat in 2026
This year’s edition is set to turn up the heat even further. The 13th Annual Gagasi FM Beach Festival will once again feature the hottest South African artists across genres, on a stage built for the scale of a Durban summer.
Year after year, the Gagasi FM Beach Festival has proved to be more than just an event. It is a movement that unites communities, celebrates local culture and showcases the power of South African music. Its success reflects the undeniable strength of the Gagasi FM brand, which continues to connect deeply with listeners across KZN and beyond.
“Beach Fest is more than just a music festival — it’s a celebration of Durban, its people, and our vibrant culture. Each year we aim to elevate the experience, and 2026 will be no different. With this incredible line-up and our loyal supporters, we know it will be a festival to remember,” says Minenhle Dlamini, Managing Director at Gagasi FM.
Beyond the music
Beyond the music, the festival experience promises thrilling build-up activations across Durban and surrounding areas, connecting communities and driving anticipation for the big day. More details on these activations will be announced soon.
Event at a glance
| Detail | Information |
| Event | 13th Annual Gagasi FM Beach Festival |
| Date | Saturday, 5 December 2026 |
| Venue | Moses Mabhida People’s Park, Durban, KwaZulu-Natal |
| Host | Gagasi FM — The Sound of KZN |
| 2025 attendance | Over 12,000 festivalgoers (sold out) |
| Experiences | General Access, VIP and VVIP hospitality |
| Line-up and tickets | To be announced |
Stay connected
For more information, updates and exclusive content leading up to the 13th Annual Gagasi FM Beach Festival 2026, tune in to Gagasi FM and follow the station on social media:
- Facebook: GagasiWorld
- Twitter/X: @GagasiFM
- Instagram: @Gagasifm
- TikTok: @GagasiFM
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