The Clarens Arts Festival returns from 24 to 27 April 2026, bringing four days of visual arts, live performances, book reviews and creative workshops, nature outings and events for children to the village of Clarens in the Eastern Free State.
Now in its fifth event, the festival has developed into an established cultural event that attracts visitors, writers, artists and art lovers from across South Africa with stellar performances, featuring notable poets such as Siphokazi Jonas, Helena Hettema, Rethabile Possa and Zama Madinana, celebrating the magic of words in Afrikaans, English and Sesotho.
Other notable performances include Amy Winehouse and pianist CHARL DU PLESSIS performing music by Bach, Beethoven and the Beatles. For example, take a look at the Bloemfontein Children’s Choir, the Odeion String Quartet and the cabaret Rooiwyn & Green Sigrettes with Christof van Der Berg and Kate Rok.
The festival continues to support South Africa’s cultural landscape and the growth of its creative economy by bringing together exhibitions, performances for young and old, nature events, literature and workshops within the unique setting of Clarens.
My Refilwe Molekane put together
Sibongile Selomane
www.bloemfonteincourant.co.za