Milk + Cookies Music Week is set to make its highly anticipated return to South Africa from 24 December 2025 to 14 January 2026, bringing with it a fusion of music, art, and culture that celebrates South Africa’s dynamic creative spirit. Headlining this year’s event is multi-platinum hip-hop star Gunna, who will perform live in Cape Town and Johannesburg as part of the 21-day cultural celebration.
The Atlanta-based production powerhouse Milk + Cookies, founded by four Morehouse College alumni, has confirmed that the festival will feature Gunna, known for global hits like “Drip Too Hard” and “Push Up.” His performances are scheduled for Kenilworth Racecourse in Cape Town on Saturday, 3 January 2026, and Nasrec Expo Centre in Johannesburg on Saturday, 10 January 2026.
Adding to the excitement, South African music legends DJ Kent and Vigro Deep will join the lineup. Their performances promise to blend global hip-hop, amapiano, and house sounds, spotlighting how South Africa continues to shape global music trends.
Following its successful 2025 debut, which drew over 20,000 attendees, Milk + Cookies Music Week returns with an even deeper commitment to celebrating creativity, community, and cultural connection. Since its founding in 2009, Milk + Cookies has evolved from hosting intimate events in Atlanta for artists like Kendrick Lamar and Summer Walker to becoming an international cultural platform.
“We’re coming back to South Africa because its culture sets the pace for the world,” said Chase Freeman, Head of Marketing at Milk + Cookies. “Last year, we saw how Atlanta’s hustle blends so naturally with South Africa’s incredible culture—it’s a partnership that just works. Now, with Gunna, DJ Kent, and Vigro Deep, we’re here to uplift local talent and show the world how South Africa is shaping global culture.”
The festival will also include educational and community-driven programs designed to empower South Africa’s creative ecosystem. These include writing camps, industry panels, and mentorship sessions that connect emerging local talent with international professionals. There will also be merch pop-ups, community initiatives, and Corporate Social Investment (CSI) projects focused on economic uplift and creative empowerment.
“True creativity thrives when we invest in people,” said Jhordan Gibbs, Director of Business Development and Strategy at Milk + Cookies. “That’s why we’re going beyond the stage—by providing the tools, resources, and opportunities that help South African creatives grow and thrive.”
More local and international acts, along with detailed event programming, will be announced in the coming weeks.
Tickets go on sale Friday, 10 October 2025 at 8:30 AM SAST. Fans can sign up for early access and purchase tickets via Howler, for both Cape Town and Johannesburg events. The festival is open to attendees aged 18 and over.