What began as a bold vision to centre women in music has grown into one of the country’s most anticipated cultural experiences. Now, Rosefest is preparing to return in 2026 — bigger, louder, and more intentional than ever before.
Founded by award-winning singer-songwriter Shekhinah, the festival is set to expand both its physical footprint and its cultural impact, relocating to the scenic Casalinga for what promises to be a full-day celebration of music, community, and unapologetic female artistry.
From Vision to Movement
Since its inception in 2019, Rosefest has carved out a unique and necessary space in South Africa’s music landscape — one that prioritises women’s voices, stories, and creative power.
The 2025 edition marked a defining moment, drawing 3,500 attendees to the iconic Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden. Set against a lush natural backdrop, the event delivered a vibrant, family-friendly atmosphere anchored by a dynamic all-female lineup — solidifying Rosefest’s place as a standout on the national events calendar.
But for 2026, standing still was never the plan.
A Bigger Stage, A Deeper Experience
With its move to Casalinga, Rosefest 2026 is doubling in size — not just in scale, but in ambition.
The new venue opens the door to a more immersive festival experience, where music, nature, and community intersect. Attendees can expect expanded spaces, elevated production, and a carefully curated environment designed to celebrate connection as much as performance.
At the heart of it all remains the festival’s defining feature:
a powerful, all-female lineup showcasing some of the most influential and exciting voices in music today.
“Rosefest has always been about creating space for women to shine,” says Shekhinah. “With the 2026 edition, we’re taking everything to the next level — bigger stage, bigger audience, and even more incredible talent.”
More Than a Festival — A Cultural Statement
In an industry still grappling with representation and equity, Rosefest continues to lead with purpose.
It is not simply a music event. It is a platform.
A space where women are not supporting acts — but the main event.
By maintaining its all-female lineup, the festival challenges industry norms while creating an environment that feels both inclusive and celebratory. It invites audiences of all ages to engage with music differently — not just as entertainment, but as expression, identity, and empowerment.
A Full Day of Sound, Energy, and Connection
Rosefest 2026 promises a full-day festival experience where every moment is designed to resonate — from live performances to shared cultural moments that extend beyond the stage.
Set within the natural beauty of Muldersdrift, the festival blends sound and scenery into something immersive and unforgettable. It’s where fans don’t just attend — they belong.
More details, including the official artist lineup and ticketing information, are set to be announced in the coming months.
Shekhinah Enters a New Creative Era
Beyond the festival stage, Shekhinah is also stepping into a bold new musical direction.
Teaming up with Brandon Dhludhlu, she is exploring a genre-bending house sound in her upcoming EP — a project that signals both evolution and creative freedom.
The first single, “Say You Love Me”, released on 17 April, offers a glimpse into this new sonic landscape — blending emotive storytelling with the pulse of house music. As one of two collaborations with Dhludhlu, the track reflects a seamless fusion of their artistic voices.
It’s a reminder that Rosefest is not just a platform Shekhinah created —
it’s an extension of the creative risks she continues to take.
The Bloom Continues
As Rosefest 2026 prepares to open its gates, one thing is clear:
This is no longer just a festival.
It is a movement — rooted in purpose, powered by women, and growing with every edition.
And this year, it blooms louder than ever.
