Following a successful start to its 2026 season, the beloved Old Mutual Music at the Lake concert series returns to the picturesque Durban Botanic Gardens with two landmark concerts celebrating two of South Africa’s most meaningful public holidays.
On Sunday, 9 August 2026, audiences can commemorate National Women’s Day with an inspiring afternoon featuring the iconic Lira alongside the soulful Nomfundo Moh.
The concert coincides with the 70th anniversary of the historic 1956 Women’s March, when more than 20,000 courageous women marched to the Union Buildings in Pretoria in peaceful protest against the extension of the Pass Laws.
Their bravery continues to inspire generations under the enduring call: “Wathint’ Abafazi, Wathint’ Imbokodo” (“You Strike a Woman, You Strike a Rock”).
The Women’s Day celebration is made even more poignant by the return of Lira, whose own journey has become a symbol of courage, hope and resilience.
Following the stroke she suffered in 2022, Lira has inspired audiences across South Africa with her remarkable recovery and triumphant return to the stage.
Her acclaimed Still Here performances have celebrated healing, perseverance and the transformative power of music, making her appearance at Old Mutual Music at the Lake a fitting tribute to the strength of South African women.
Together with the powerful voice of Nomfundo Moh, one of the country’s brightest contemporary stars, the concert promises an afternoon of inspiration, celebration and world-class music.
The celebrations continue on Thursday, 24 September 2026, when Heritage Day comes alive with an unforgettable concert from Sjava, Simmy and the Q Twins.
While each artist brings a distinctive sound to the stage, together they represent the richness of modern South African music, with deep roots in KwaZulu-Natal’s vibrant cultural landscape.
From Sjava’s poetic storytelling that blends isiZulu traditions with contemporary sounds, to Simmy’s ethereal Afro-house melodies born in Tugela Ferry, and the unmistakable harmonies of the Q Twins from KwaMashu, the concert is a celebration of local talent that has proudly carried the sounds of KZN onto national and international stages.
Heritage Day provides the perfect opportunity to honour our languages, traditions, stories and shared identity through music that unites generations and communities.
Reflecting on the upcoming events, Molise Moloi, Mass and Foundation Cluster Marketing Executive at Old Mutual, shares that music has the power to bring people together while celebrating the values that define South Africans.
Moloi notes that this year’s National Women’s Day concert holds even greater significance as the nation honours 70 years since the historic 1956 Women’s March and celebrates the remarkable women who continue to inspire the country.
Having Lira, whose journey of resilience has touched so many, alongside the exceptional Nomfundo Moh, makes this a truly meaningful occasion, while the Heritage Day concert celebrates the incredible cultural diversity and musical excellence of South Africa and KwaZulu-Natal. Old Mutual remains proud to create experiences that bring communities together while supporting the important work of the Durban Botanic Gardens and showcasing the artists whose music tells the country’s story.
Old Mutual Music at the Lake continues its proud tradition of showcasing South Africa’s finest musical talent while creating unforgettable experiences for families, friends, and music lovers in one of the country’s most scenic outdoor concert settings.
Event Details:
Old Mutual Music at the Lake: Lira & Nomfundo Moh
- Event: National Women’s Day Concert
- Venue: Durban Botanic Gardens – Lake Area
- Date: Sunday, 9 August 2026
- Gates Open: 1:00 PM
- Tickets: Available at Webtickets
- Info: Food and drinks are welcome. Please bring your picnic blankets and camping chairs.
Old Mutual Music at the Lake: Sjava (Full Band), Simmy, Q Twins
- Event: Heritage Day Concert
- Venue: Durban Botanic Gardens – Lake Area
- Date: Thursday, 24 September 2026 (Heritage Day Public Holiday)
- Gates Open: 1:00 PM
- Tickets: Available at Webtickets
- Info: Food and drinks are welcome. Please bring your picnic blankets and camping chairs.
For more information, visit www.durbanbotanicgardens.org.za or call the Info Centre on 068 598 1396.
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