Zanzibar's Sauti za Busara to reveal 2027 line-up on 22 October; festival runs 19–21 March

The 24th Sauti za Busara festival will run on 19–21 March 2027 in Stone Town, Zanzibar, and early-bird tickets are on sale. The line-up will be revealed on 22 October 2026 on the festival website and its social media channels, the Busara Team said in a post dated 20 October.

The festival had earlier been set for 11–14 March 2027. The dates were moved after consultations with the relevant authorities, the music news website Music In Africa reported. "This adjustment has been made in consideration of the Holy month of Ramadhan and the Eid celebrations," the organisers said in a statement quoted by Music In Africa. Busara Promotions said hosting the festival later in the month "will provide a more convenient and inclusive environment for audiences, artists, partners, and the wider community."

Main-stage performances run from 4:00pm to 1:30am. The organisers may change dates, times and the programme.

The ticket page does not list prices. There are five types of three-day pass. The VIP-Grandstand Pass gives a seat in the VIP grandstand, the VIP bar, VIP mivinje seating and VIP restrooms, plus access to all other public areas. The VIP-Grandstand Tanzanian Citizen Pass carries the same benefits at half price, only with a valid ID.

The Regular International Pass covers the mivinje, the main stage, the food court and all other public areas. The Tanzanian Pass gives access to the mivinje and standing room in the main venue, and requires a valid ID: a national ID, a Zanzibar ID, a Tanzanian passport or a voting card.

The Africa United & East African Resident Pass is sold at a 50% discount and covers the mivinje, the main stage, the food court and all other public areas. Eligibility requires a valid African passport or a valid resident permit for one of the East African Community member states the organisers list: Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi and South Sudan. A driving licence is not accepted.

Children up to age 12 enter free when accompanied by an adult, with a maximum of two children per adult.

Online purchases carry a 5% administration fee that is not refundable. Refunds of the balance after that fee are 90% until 31 January 2027 and 40% until 28 February 2027. From 1 March 2027 no refunds are paid.

The Busara Team asks buyers to book through the official website, busaramusic.org. Tickets are not transferable, the festival may refuse admission, and tampered wristbands will be confiscated.

Contacts are [email protected], +255 678 018634 and Busara Promotions, PO Box 3635, Zanzibar, Tanzania.