The Clarens Arts Festival will return from 24 to 27 April 2026, bringing four days of visual arts, performances, literature and creative experiences to the village of Clarens in the eastern Free State.
Now in its fifth year, the festival has grown into an established cultural event that attracts artists, writers, performers and visitors from across South Africa. During the festival, Clarens becomes a walkable arts destination with galleries, restaurants, studios and public spaces hosting exhibitions, talks and performances throughout the village.
Situated in the foothills of the Maluti Mountains, Clarens is well known for its vibrant arts community. The festival builds on this reputation by offering visitors a diverse programme that includes exhibitions, theatre, live music, book discussions, workshops and family friendly activities.
Visual arts remain central to the festival programme. The 2026 exhibitions will include a feature collection titled Chronicles of Faith by sculptor Anton Smit, as well as Highveld Ceramics, a curated exhibition involving Eugene Hon, John Shirley and Michelle Legg. A Basotho Blanket Exhibition will also be presented on the Clarens Village Square, highlighting the cultural significance of the Basotho heritage blanket and showcasing designs by emerging Basotho creators alongside pieces from the My Africa Designer Collection.
The performing arts programme will include jazz and Latin music by Josh Mokoena and Heinrich Pelser, theatre productions such as Seun and Ingrid: ‘n Vlam in die Sneeu, as well as a performance by the Odeion String Quartet with soprano Nonzwakazi and pianist Megan Geoffry Prins. The Bloemfontein Children’s Choir will present The Hills are Alive! on 26 April.
Literature also forms an important part of the programme, with talks, readings and panel discussions featuring prominent South African writers and commentators. Highlights include a public conversation between author Antjie Krog and journalist Ruda Landman.
The festival will also feature workshops, children’s activities and guided nature experiences in and around Clarens, offering visitors a variety of ways to engage with both the arts and the surrounding landscape.
