The Ballito Pro Presented by O’Neill is turning up the volume this winter with an epic music programme set to unite festivalgoers on the KZN North Coast from 4 to 18 July 2026. Music remains one of the defining elements of this longest-running professional surf contest, complementing world-class surfing with free beachfront concerts, sunset sessions, DJ showcases, and after-dark entertainment.
The headline music attraction is the two-day Ballito Pro Music Concerts Presented by Corona on 16 and 17 July. This free-to-attend concert at Salt Rock Main Beach brings some of South Africa’s biggest music talents to the oceanfront stage.
“Music has always been at the heart of the Ballito Pro experience,” said Collette Bundy, Ballito Pro Presented by O’Neill Festival Organiser. “The incredible atmosphere and unforgettable performances keep people coming back year after year. This year’s programme perfectly captures our Wave of Unity theme, bringing together diverse artists, music genres, and audiences in one incredible beachfront setting. Combined with the mild winter weather and spectacular coastline, we’re expecting a really impressive festival atmosphere.”
Night 1: Afro-House
The opening concert is on Thursday, 16 July concert runs from 4.30pm to 10.30pm, bringing an energetic celebration of Afro-house and electronic music.
Leading the line-up is Mörda (Murdah Bongz), one of South Africa’s most celebrated producers and DJs, renowned for hit tracks including Uxolo, Takala, and Summer Love. He will be joined by crowd favourite DJ Merlon, whose chart-topping tracks Koza Kuse, Thembalami, and Bro Code have made him one of the country’s leading house music artists.
Also taking to the stage are Durban-based performer Blanco Nero, rising star Asvnte, and popular East Coast Radio personality and DJ Jay Sbu. Completing the line-up will be the winner of the annual Battle of the DJs Competition, providing an aspiring local artist with the opportunity to perform before thousands of festivalgoers.
Night 2: Rock and Pop
Friday, 17 July shifts the focus to rock and pop, featuring crowd-pleasing festival favourites from 4pm to 11.30pm. Leading the line-up is returning Ballito favourite Booshle G, whose folk-inspired storytelling and engaging stage presence have earned him a devoted following across South Africa.
Joining him are social media sensations The Saxby Twins, whose infectious energy and feel-good pop sound have made them one of the country’s most exciting young acts.
KwaZulu-Natal favourites Veranda Panda will bring their trademark creativity and live performance energy to the beachfront stage, while Zebra, Phil Taylor Band, Matt Gardiner, and Bloodbrother complete a diverse line-up that promises something for every music fan.
A Full Music Programme at Ballito Pro
Beyond the headline concerts, music lovers can enjoy a packed entertainment schedule throughout the Ballito Pro.
Highlights include:
- Corona Sunset Sessions (5, 10, 12, 15 and 18 July at Willard Beach) featuring live DJs and sunset performances overlooking the Indian Ocean.
- Battle of the DJs Competition (10 July at KwaDukuza Town Hall), showcasing emerging local talent competing for a coveted festival performance slot.
- After Dark Entertainment Experiences hosted at Conchilla, La Montagne and Fiamma Grill.
Beyond the Music Festival…
While the concerts are a major attraction, visitors can also look forward to a packed programme of sporting, cultural, environmental, and family-friendly activities.
Festival highlights include:
- Beach entertainment, volleyball, soccer activations, and family fun zones
- Beach judo tournament and beach rugby touch tournament.
- Retail village, food vendors, and lifestyle experiences
- iLembe Surf Development fundraiser and Small Steps fundraiser activations
- SeaHer Beach activation for women
- Surf & Turf celebrity tag team challenge
- FIFA World Cup fan screenings and activations
- Ballito Skate Competition presented by O’Neill and Red Bull
- BMX and extreme sports displays
- Litter4Tokens and WESSA conservation activations and beach clean-ups
- Coastal and cultural tourism experiences showcasing KwaDukuza and the iLembe region
Keep Updated on All the Action
Don’t miss any of the action at the 2026 Ballito Pro Presented by O’Neill Festival! #waveofunity #igagazi lobumbano/Lobunye
Watch LIVE The Challenger Series will be broadcast LIVE on WorldSurfLeague.com, the free WSL app, and the WSL’s YouTube channel. Also, check out more ways to watch from the WSL’s broadcast partners.
To find out more about The Ballito Pro presented by O’Neill festival programme, visit:
Website: www.theballitopro.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theballitopro/
Twitter: www.twitter.com/TheBallitoPro
Instagram: www.instagram.com/TheBallitoPro
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/theballitopro
Snapchat: Username – TheBallitoPro
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Author: Agnes Matladi from Olivia Jones Communications on behalf of Ballito Pro.
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