Ballito Pro 2026 announces unifying festival line-up for 57th edition
The 2026 edition arrives during a landmark year for global sport, coinciding with the FIFA World Cup and the 50th anniversary of the World Surf League World Tour, adding a layer of unifying energy to this year’s festival programme.
The Ballito Pro presented by O’Neill returns to Willard Beach in KwaDukuza from July 4 to 18, under the theme of ‘Wave of Unity’, celebrating its 57th year with an epic coastal lifestyle festival.
Hosted along the KZN North Coast, the internationally recognised event will bring world-class sport, music, culture, and seaside experiences to one of South Africa’s most iconic coastal destinations.
The 2026 edition arrives during a landmark year for global sport, coinciding with the FIFA World Cup and the 50th anniversary of the World Surf League World Tour, adding a layer of unifying energy to this year’s festival programme.
“The Ballito Pro is the ultimate place to be this winter, with the inviting KZN North Coast weather and an absolutely epic programme planned for all ages and interests,” said Collette Bundy, Ballito Pro presented by O’Neill festival organiser.
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Each year, the event brings an incredible energy to KwaDukuza, and 2026 is shaping up to be one of their most exciting programmes yet, noted Bundy.
“We’re delighted to channel support for Bafana Bafana at the FIFA World Cup through our fan zones, and the epic Surf and Turf Pros Tag Team – alongside our many popular festival programme favourites. This is definitely one festival you’re not going to want to miss,” said Bundy.
One of the additions to the 2026 programme is the SeaHer Women’s Surf Activation, a three-day programme that empowers women through surfing and wellness. Female surfers of all abilities will get together to learn practical ocean confidence, mindset, breathwork, and surf skills, while creating meaningful connections through shared experiences in and around the ocean.
The festival forms part of a broader initiative between the KwaDukuza Municipality, World Surf League, Surfing South Africa, and key public and private partners, aimed at driving youth development, tourism growth, and sustainable coastal activation.
Don’t miss any of the action at the 2026 Ballito Pro Presented by O’Neill Festival!
To find out more about the 2026 Ballito Pro, visit www.theballitopro.com
