Top 20 Events
In Cape Town
Design Indaba
An annual “do-tank” at the intersection of innovation, business, social impact, design, and creative expression. It features a variety of case studies and ingenious problem-solving sessions.
When: February
www.designindaba.com
Cape Town Pride Festival
A vibrant event celebrating the LGBT+ community with parades, parties, competitions, art, poetry, karaoke, book readings, and a fun run.
When: February/March
www.capetownpride.org
Cape Town International Jazz Festival
Africa’s biggest jazz event, featuring national and international artists over two nights on multiple stages.
When: March/May
www.capetownjazzfest.com
Suidoosterfees
A festival offering a variety of performances, musical shows, historical tours, and art exhibitions at multiple venues in Cape Town.
When: April
www.suidoosterfees.co.za
Cape Town Carnival
Cape Town streets are set to explode with color, floats, and dancers in a celebration of the city’s diverse communities.
When: March
www.capetowncarnival.com
Jive Cape Town Funny Festival
Cape Town’s best-loved laugh-fest featuring top comedic acts from around the world.
When: July
www.funnyfestival.co.za
Open Design Afrika
A festival including workshops, talks, exhibitions, tours, networking events, and parties aimed at teaching and inspiring strong design thinking.
When: October
www.opendesignafrika.org
Cape Town International Film Market & Festival (CTIFMF)
A film festival and trading platform for industry stakeholders, celebrating the art of film and providing an active trading platform.
When: October
www.filmfestival.capetown
Minstrel Carnival
A day of colorful celebrations featuring on-stage entertainers and a variety of community activities, representing Cape Town’s cultural diversity.
When: January
www.capetownminstrels.co.za
Open Streets
A citizen-driven initiative that closes down streets temporarily to create car-free public spaces for walking, cycling, skating, and socializing.
When: Year-round
www.openstreets.org.za
First Thursdays
On the first Thursday of every month, arts and culture in Cape Town have a late night, with dozens of art galleries and cultural events open to the public for free.
When: Year-round
www.first-thursdays.co.za
Cape Town Cycle Tour
The world’s largest timed cycle race with around 30,000 riders on a 109km route around the Cape Peninsula.
When: March
www.capetowncycletour.com
Two Oceans Marathon
Known as the world’s most beautiful marathon, featuring a 56km ultra marathon, a 21km half marathon, and fun runs.
When: April
www.twooceansmarathon.org.za
Volvo Ocean Race
A yacht race around the world with a stop at the V&A Waterfront.
When: November/December
www.volvooceanrace.com
Mining Indaba
The world’s largest mining investment conference, attracting professionals from over 100 countries.
When: February
www.miningindaba.com
Cape Town International Animation Festival
The only dedicated African animation festival, featuring films, workshops, and networking sessions.
When: March
www.ctiaf.com
Africa Travel Week
Comprises three co-located shows focused on travel and tourism: The World Travel Market Africa, The International Luxury Travel Market Africa, and The Incentives, Business Travel, and Meetings Africa event.
When: April
www.africatravelweek.com
Decorex Cape Town
A premier decor and design showcase with curated exhibitions and inspiring talks.
When: June
www.decorex.co.za
Rocking the Daisies
A popular music and lifestyle festival featuring a diverse lineup of artists and activities.
When: October
www.rockingthedaisies.com
Kirstenbosch Summer Sunset Concerts
Outdoor concerts in the botanical gardens, featuring local and international acts.
When: November to April
www.sanbi.org/gardens/kirstenbosch
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