The Cape Town Jazz Festival honors a rich array of folk music traditions, showcasing South African jazz and international influences. The festival features several renowned local and international artists, who present a blend of traditional and contemporary styles. Performances often include improvisation, a key element in jazz, allowing musicians to express their creativity freely. Notable styles such as afro-jazz and kwaito are well represented, reflecting the country's diverse musical heritage. Thus, the festival not only celebrates jazz as a genre but also highlights its roots in various folk traditions.