Feel Africa’s beat with our upcoming art and music celebrations
Art and music are more than just creative expressions; they’re powerful forces of unity, identity and joy. Standard Bank proudly supports Africa’s cultural heartbeat by backing a dynamic lineup of festivals that bring together creativity, community and connection. From jazz riffs in Johannesburg to vintage glamour in Eswatini, here’s what’s coming up.
Standard Bank Luju Food & Lifestyle Festival, Eswatini
Save the dates: 1‒2 August 2025
Step into a celebration of Afro-futuristic elegance and flavour at the Luju festival, where food, fashion, music and family-friendly fun collide.
With the theme ‘A Return to the African Future’, Luju showcases haute African cuisine from top chefs, sustainable fashion inspired by heritage and mellow musical rhythms that make you sway. Whether you’re sipping fine wine or dancing with the kids, this festival is a stylish reminder of how deeply art runs through everyday life.
The Standard Bank Luju Food & Lifestyle Festival is hosted by House on Fire, with the support of Standard Bank Eswatini.
Visit www.lujufestival.com for more information and grab your tickets.
Stanbic Legends of Sound Festival, Kampala, Uganda
Save the date: 16 August 2025
Get ready for a night of unforgettable music in Kampala at Millennium Grounds, Lugogo. The 2025 Stanbic Legends of Sound Festival is expected to feature the legendary Congolese artist Koffi Olomidé, a powerhouse of African music known for his distinctive baritone, dynamic stage presence and genre-defining contributions to ndombolo.
Now in its third edition, the Legends of Sound concert series pays tribute to Africa’s musical pioneers. This year, the spotlight also shines on Afrigo Band, Uganda’s most enduring music group. With a legacy spanning decades, Afrigo Band continues to blend heritage and innovation in a sound that defines generations.
Tickets are available on FlexiPay.
Standard Bank Joy of Jazz, Johannesburg, South Africa
Save the dates: 26‒28 September 2025
Johannesburg’s flagship jazz festival returns to Sandton Convention Centre with its signature blend of glamour, groove and soul. Joy of Jazz is more than a festival; it’s a love letter to Africa’s jazz heritage, drawing global icons and rising local stars onto one unforgettable stage.
With smooth sounds to impressive improvisations, this event delivers world-class experiences. Our support also fuels platforms for emerging talent, such as 2025 Young Artists for Jazz winner Siya Charles and musician Muneyi, winner for Music.
Book your tickets at ticketmaster.co.za. Standard Bank cardholders get a 15%* discount on tickets.
*Terms and conditions apply.ART X Lagos, Nigeria
Save the dates: 6‒9 November 2025
Now in its 10th edition, ART X Lagos is West Africa’s leading international art fair and a bold celebration of African creativity and dialogue. Hosted at the Federal Palace in Lagos, this milestone year honours a decade of visionary artists from across the continent and the diaspora.
Since its founding in 2016, the fair has showcased talent from over 70 countries, becoming a key platform for sharing and shaping the African narrative on the global stage.
Join the celebration and experience a new era in art, culture and conversation.
For more information, visit www.artxlagos.com
The Acacia Jazz Festival, Maputo, Mozambique
Save the date: 28 November 2025
Maputo, known as the ‘City of Acacias’, sets the stage for a world-class jazz celebration. The Acacia Jazz Festival, hosted by Standard Bank Mozambique, brings local and international talent together to honour Mozambique’s rich cultural rhythms.
This year’s lineup includes international artists such as Speranza Spalding and Eric Darius, and local favourites Jimmy Dludlu and Isaac Project. All performances will take place at China Centro Cultural.
A stage for Africa’s story
From the soul of jazz to the rhythm of ndombolo, these festivals remind us that creativity is a powerful force, one that brings people together, honours tradition and shapes new futures.
Through every note played or sung, we are committed to supporting Africa’s creative spirit.