Ladies take the decks as Splashy Fen’s Electric Boma powers up for a Friday night DJ takeover: With just one week to go, excitement is reaching fever pitch for the 35th edition of the legendary Splashy Fen Music Festival 2026 – South Africa’s longest-running and most beloved music festival – returning to the breathtaking Southern Drakensberg from 2–6 April 2026.
As thousands of festivalgoers prepare to make their annual pilgrimage to the mountains, Splashy Fen is gearing up for one of its most unforgettable celebrations yet, marking 35 years of music, memories, and community magic. This milestone edition boasts one of the strongest line-ups in the festival’s history, led by powerhouse main stage headliners GoodLuck (Friday night), GoldFish (Saturday night), and Jeremy Loops (Sunday night).
In a massive exclusive moment for South African music fans, GoldFish will debut their first-ever FULL BAND headline festival performance in South Africa at Splashy Fen.
“We’re beyond excited to bring this show to Splashy for the very first time,” say GoldFish’s Dom and Dave. “Splashy Fen is a big part of where our journey began…it’s been 17 years since we last played here, and returning with a show on this scale feels incredibly special.”
Fans can expect a completely reimagined GoldFish experience, featuring tracks from across their six celebrated studio albums.
“It’s the most immersive version of our music we’ve ever put on stage, and there’s no better place to unleash it than at Splashy.”
Beyond the headliners, the lineup reflects the incredible diversity of South Africa’s music scene, with standout performances expected from artists including Ndlovu Youth Choir, Will Linley, Billy Raffoul (Canada), Jack And The Weatherman (Netherlands), Matthew Mole, Jesse Clegg, Louise Carver, Van Pletzen, Veranda Panda, Booshle G., Tanner Wareham, Steve Umculo, Angel M, Jemma Kate and many more.
With international debuts, Splashy first-timers, and beloved festival favourites all on the bill, the 2026 lineup promises a weekend of unforgettable performances.
Friday Night is Ladies Night at The Electric Boma
One of the most anticipated moments of the festival will unfold on Friday night at the Electric Boma, where the energy will be turned all the way up with a special ladies-only DJ takeover powered by MXD.
In a bold and electrifying showcase of female talent, the stage will belong entirely to some of the country’s most exciting women in electronic music. Expect a bass-driven, high-energy dancefloor experience led by Nnabona, Miss P, Housewife, and Nataša.
The message is simple: the gals are taking over. With booming beats, fearless energy and a packed dancefloor guaranteed, Friday night’s Electric Boma takeover is shaping up to be one of the festival’s loudest and most unforgettable parties.
What’s in Store for Splashy Fen 2026
The 35th anniversary promises one of the most ambitious editions yet, featuring: 6 stages of live music; 300+ artists, including international acts; 30+ food trucks, stalls and artisan vendors; More showers and upgraded festival facilities; Family-friendly spaces and kids’ entertainment; Free activities including yoga, trail runs and workshops; Park-by-your-campsite convenience.
Accommodation options are plenty, including powered campsites and boutique glamping experiences, giving festivalgoers multiple ways to experience the magic of Splashy Fen in comfort. Following a sold-out 2025 edition, demand for tickets is already surging. With Phase 2 tickets on sale and not too many left fans are encouraged to secure their spots soon, because Splashy Fen tickets have a long history of selling out.
For more than three decades, Splashy Fen has delivered some of South Africa’s most unforgettable musical moments. In 2026, the festival not only celebrates its remarkable legacy but it raises the bar for what’s still to come. Pack your tents. Rally your friends. The mountains are calling. See you at Splashy Fen.
Festival news regarding Foot and Mouth Disease
With Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) having been a concern in parts of KwaZulu-Natal in recent months, Splashy Fen organisers wish to reassure festivalgoers and the local community that the 35th edition of the festival will proceed as planned from 2–6 April 2026, with comprehensive mitigation measures in place. After consultation with relevant authorities and the Underberg farming community, Splashy Fen has been classified as a low-risk event for FMD transmission. The festival site has no livestock and is accessed via a single district road, significantly reducing risk. Organisers are working closely with government agencies and local stakeholders to ensure the event is delivered responsibly while continuing to support tourism and economic activity in the Underberg region. Updates will continue to be shared via Splashy Fen’s official social media platforms.
- GoldFish live jam. Photo: Sam Hickey.
