Full Splashy Fen 2020 line up and set times released

“We spend months curating a unique lineup that appeals to our fans,” says Stu Berry, festival director. “And while we’re thrilled to be bringing five stellar international acts to our stages this year, we’re also very proud to remain whole-heartedly invested in the superb local talent that South Africa has to offer. In fact, more than half of this year’s acts come from KZN.”

First acts announced for 2020 Splashy Fen Music Fest

7 Feb 2020

In its early days, the festival genre-focused heavily on folk and light folk-rock with the inclusion of traditional music styles such as mbaqanga and isicathamiya. Over the years, this offering has grown to include hip hop and pop music and, in very recent years, electro-jazz.

SA and the world's best

The Splashy Fen Main Stage kicks off on Friday, 10 April and will have the crowds on their feet all night and all weekend. Mali Zulu, Coleman Hell, Goodluck, Mi Casa, The Ndlovu Youth Choir, Frank Turner, Bad Peter, Shakey Graves, Rubber DUC and The Pierce Brothers are just some of the acts to catch; as well as the brand new Splashy Spectacle – music, sound, lighting and experiential display to wow fans of all ages.

A firm favourite, the Corona River Stage is bigger and better than ever before and fans can make their way down to the refreshing waterside – via the new Corona bridge; from 10.45am on Friday, 10 April. 4am, The Betsie Beers, Flying Bantu, Zebra, Faraway George, among others, will entertain river frolicking festival goers until late on Sunday afternoon. Fans can also look forward to what is fast becoming a River Stage tradition, with a Surprise Set, where the stage is handed over to a particular artist/act from the festival’s lineup. Fans only know who is performing when they take to the stage.

Acoustics and food

In the heart of the Splashy Fen Food Court Area is the Acoustic Stage. Join Freddy-L, Steve Umculo, Down South, Bianca Sontoro, Mbijana Sibisi, Sol Natives, Coby Grant, and friends from 11.30am on Thursday, 9 April to 9pm on Sunday, 12 April. Lounge around on hay bales with friends, old and new; enjoy a selection of over 30 food vendors and soak up the great sounds of every music genre out there. From acoustic harmonies to ukulele solos, and a dedicated Legends of the Fen set, run by Splashy Legends themselves, Don Clarke and Dicky Roberts.

“When Impi Concept Events first approached us in 2016 to run a stage at Splashy Fen, the objective was to showcase and in turn, celebrate the ‘legendary’ musicians who had played at Splashy regularly over the years,” says Clarke.

“Of course, we jumped on board, and since then, have worked tirelessly to craft a lineup that attracts the more mature festival-goers. After three successful years with the likes of Steve Fataar, Brian Finch and PJ Powers making an appearance, we are pleased to note that the average attendance age of Splashy Fen is on the increase.”

This year, the Legends of The Fen showcase starts at 12pm on Sunday, 12 April with the exceptionally talented Rorke; Qadasi & Maqhinga at 1.15pm; The Songtellers & The Escape Goats at 2.30pm; Auldfield at 3.45pm; and Clout, who will entertain the crowds from 5pm.

Whimsical wonder

The Splashy Fen Treehouse Stage is a magical space of creativity and whimsical wonder. A hand-made wattle stage lies hidden under the canopy of the Splashy Fen forest and has become a popular platform for budding musicians to showcase their skills.

Music performances start from 3.15pm on Thursday, 9 April through to Sunday, 12 April, so come and enjoy music from Lindo M, Angel Mazibuko, The Kickstands, Gav Ferguson, Matt Gardiner and more. Throughout the four-day festival, you’ll also be treated to a series of belly dancing performances, digeridoo and flow workshops, and an exciting new chill-out zone with a twist.

And for those who like to party the weekend away, the Electric Boma has it all: great music, quirky décor and party-starters. Catch Sennora, Ryan Murgatroyd, Ty Stoltz, Melodica, Knott, Vimo and loads more from 7pm on Friday, 10 April to midnight on Sunday, 12 April.

Tickets are available from www.splashyfen.co.za.