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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