AfrikaBurn Decompression 2026
Through The Prism was earth-shattering fun, even if it was only for a week! Now that we’ve finally put all the pieces back together, it’s time to gather and share our Tankwa tales, adventures, and creativity at the official 2026 Decompression event.
Decompression is your one-day-only blank canvas event in the default world, where you’re invited to be the artist, the performer, the whatever you want to be.
When: 1 August 2026, from 2pm to 2am
Where: The Castle of Good Hope, Foreshore, Cape Town
THIS IS A BURN EVENT … EVERYONE IS INVITED TO GET INVOLVED
Want to bring some art? Can you help with decor? Can you make music? Are you able to walk on stilts? While spinning fire? Got a Mutant Vehicle? Bring your flaming piranha on wheels! Got a snazzy costume? Wear it and strut your stuff like it’s sunset on the Binnekring.
Email decompression@afrikaburn.com to find out how your creativity can be part of the event.
TICKETS (Strictly limited to 1200 tickets)
R300 Early Bird, limited to the first 600 tickets – grab them before they are gone!
R350 General Admission. Note that when sold out, there will be no tickets at the door.
R50 Anathi Tickets. Please request via illumanathi@afrikaburn.com by the 22nd of July, and once approved, you can purchase at the door.
Kids ages 14 and under must be accompanied by an adult (tickets available only online): FREE!
WHAT TO EXPECT?
Art and shenanigans straight from the Tankwa, burlesque shows, swing dance classes, cuddle puddles, frolicking in the fountain, food trucks, bars, and even more dancing than last year.
– Three different sound stages, with dusty beats and rhythms
– Food trucks
– Cash bar
– Artworks
– DJs spinning tunes deep into the night
– Coat check and Lost & Found
– Secure parking at the Castle or the Grand Parade (event guardians to escort you)
DOUBLE THE FUN AND VOLUNTEER FOR DECOMPRESSION
Greeters, MOOPers, fluffers, set up crew, strike crew, coat checkers – we all make this thing together. Join the team behind the scenes and help to build the best Decompression ever.
Interested? Send your signal to decompression@afrikaburn.com
WHY THE CASTLE?
Given that it is a site of historical violence and trauma, it is important for all of us to acknowledge this and to figure out together how Decompression can amplify the Castle’s stated efforts towards being “unapologetically decolonial, inclusive, brave, challenging, and educational”. This is an opportunity to reclaim spaces in remembrance, to reclaim energy and restore earth connection.
Castle of Good Hope Parking · Foreshore, Cape Town, 8001, South Africa
