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Out and About in Cape Town: Things to do this weekend

Your guide to the best experiences across the Mother City this Friday, 5 September to Sunday, 7 September.

Amy Fraser
Written by
Amy Fraser
Content Coordinator, Time Out South Africa
Girl on beach
Photograph: JLco - Julia Amaral | Girl on beach with unicorn float and drink enjoying summer vacation
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Whether you celebrate spring on September 1st or roll your eyes at those who do and instead wait for the 22nd, one thing is certain: Cape Town is getting lighter and brighter, and the gees building up to summer couldn't be more tangible.

Weather-wise, the Mother City is in for a sunny weekend, with temperatures reaching highs of 23°C and dipping to lows of 12°C.

If you're slowly emerging from winter hibernation (no judgment) or already in weekend warrior mode, we've compiled a list that's sure to have something for every member of the family. 

Time Out Tip: First Thursday takes place on Thursday, 4 September - it's the perfect excuse to pop into the Time Out Market, in the ever popular V&A Waterfront for a head start to your weekend buzz with great food, drinks and local entertainment.

CBD

Open Book Cape Town

  • Friday, 5 September - Sunday, 7 September
  • Venue: Homecoming Centre, Corner Buitenkant St, Caledon St
  • Price: Programme-dependent. Bookings via the Open Book Festival website

Arguably, the most important literary event on Cape Town’s calendar, the Open Book Festival is an inclusive, vibrant meeting space for writers and avid book lovers. With panels, poetry, and conversations at its core, the event celebrates the power of storytelling to deepen understanding and foster empathy across communities.

Open Book Festival
Facebook: Open Book Festival

Jacques Brel is Alive, and Well, and Living in Paris

  • Starts Thursday, 4 September, 7 pm
  • Venue: Artscape, Arena Theatre
  • Price: R150. Booking via Web Tickets

Jacques Brel Is Alive and Well and Living in Paris is a musical revue featuring the songs of Jacques Brel, with English translations by Eric Blau and Mort Shuman. The current production at the Artscape is directed by Niël Rademan, with musical direction by Brandon Phillips and choreography by Mary-Jane Zimri.

Artscape in Cape Town
Adamina / Flickr

FAME Shorts Film Festival

  • Thursday, 4 September to Saturday,  6 September
  • Venue: The Labia Theatre, 68 Orange St
  • Price: From R50 via Quicket

The 2025 FAME Shorts Film Festival is back, shining a light on the deep and complicated sides of family, desire, identity, and quiet rebellion. With powerful films from across Africa and its diaspora, this year’s festival will make you laugh, cry, feel chills – and maybe even see yourself in the stories on screen.

Fame Shorts Film Festival
Instagram: Fame Shorts Film FestivalFame Shorts Film Festival at the Labia Theatre

 Winehouse

  • Sunday, 7 September. 4 pm - 10 pm
  • Venue: Cellar Collective Wine Bar, 111 Sir Lowry Rd
  • Price: R100 via Quicket

For those seeking great music, vibrant energy, and exceptional wine, Winehouse is the place to be. Guests can look forward to smooth Afro House grooves, complimentary wine tastings, and a cosy, inviting atmosphere.

Friends Celebrating
Photograph: SeventyFourFriends partying together outdoors

ATLANTIC SEABOARD

DHL Western Province vs Sanlam Boland Cavaliers

The Carling Currie Cup Round 7 clash marks the first meeting between the two provincial rivals since 2016.

DHL Stadium in Cape Town, South Africa
Cristian Lourenço

 Bridgerton High Tea at 12 Apostles

Raise those pinkies! The Twelve Apostles is hosting a garden party fit for high society. Surrounded by vibrant blooms, decadent confections, and perfectly steeped tea, guests are in for an afternoon of elegant indulgence.

12 Apostles Hotel
Instagram: The Twelve Apostles HotelHigh tea at the The Twelve Apostles Hotel


V&A Record & Music Fair

  • Saturday, 6 September. 10 am - 2 pm
  • Venue: Watershed upper level, V&A Waterfront
  • Price: Free

Music lovers, take note: the Watershed invites guests to dive into a world of sound. With over 6,000 vinyl records, a curated selection of CDs, music books, and band merch, it’s a haven for collectors and casual fans alike.

V&A Watershed
Instagram: V&A WatershedV&A Record & Music Fair

SOUTHERN SUBURBS

Figure of 8 Dance: The Reservation

  • 3 September to 6 September. 7:30 pm, Saturday matinee at 3 pm
  • Venue: Magnet Theatre, 1 St Michaels Rd, Observatory
  • Price: R150. Tickets available on Quicket

The award-winning contemporary dance company Figure of 8 Dance Theatre presents The Reservation – a daring, immersive dance-theatre experience that reflects on society’s habits and desires.

Reservation by Figure of 8 Dance
Instagram: Magnet TheatreFigure of 8 Dance: The Reservation

 Chess on the Beach

  • Every Sunday, 2 pm to 5 pm
  • Venue: Seaweed & Salt, Kalk Bay Main Road
  • Price: R40 registration fee at the Cape Chess Club

Chess, delicious food, and the soothing sound of waves crashing, what more could you want for the perfect Sunday?

ALSO READ: 13 reasons why Kalk Bay is kiff

Seaweed and Salt, Kalk Bay
Instagram: Seaweed and SaltChess on the Beach at Seaweed and Salt

MOFFIE

  • From 2 September to 27 September. 7:30 pm and 3:30 pm Saturday matinee
  • Venue: Baxter Theatre, Main Rd, Rondebosch
  • Price: R240, bookings via Web Tickets

MOFFIE follows seventeen-year-old Nicholas van der Swart, a young conscript navigating the harsh realities of the South African Defence Force during the Border War. In this tough, hyper-militarised world, Nicholas must keep a secret that could upend everything – he’s gay. Adapted from André Carl van der Merwe’s novel, this stage version is brought to life by director and producer Greg Karvellas.

Good to know: The production is rated PG16

MOFFIE at the Baxter Theatre
Instagram: The BaxterRehearsals are underway for production of MOFFIE


3Arts Village September Homecrafts Market

  • Saturday, 6 September. 10 am to 3 pm
  • Venue: 3Arts Village Shopping Centre, Plumstead
  • Price: Free entry

This market brings together everything you need, from essentials to unique treasures, all under one roof, featuring handcrafted décor, artisanal goods, fresh produce, delectable baked treats, and thoughtful gifts.

3Arts Village monthly market
Facebook: 3Arts Village3Arts Village September Homecrafts Market

Spring Splash

  • Sunday, 7 September. 10 am
  • Venue: Fish Hoek Beach
  • Price: Free

Nothing quite says "hello spring" like the annual Fish Hoek Spring Splash. Families can look forward to a fun-filled day of building sandcastles, embarking on a treasure hunt, and diving into the ocean to celebrate the end of winter.

Girl on beach
Photograph: JLco - Julia AmaralGirl on beach with unicorn float and drink enjoying summer vacation

CAPE FLATS

Khayelitsha Craft Market 

  • Sundays, 9 am to 12 pm
  • Venue: St Michael’s Church, Ncumo Road, Khayelitsha
  • Price: Free entry

Visit the Khayelitsha Craft Market to discover an exquisite collection of pottery, beadwork, paintings, baskets, and many other handcrafted treasures created by talented township artisans. As one of South Africa’s largest townships, Khayelitsha offers more than just crafts – it’s a vibrant community where creativity and culture come alive, and the spirit of togetherness is truly palpable.

craft market
Photogragh: KulakovaAccessories and jewelry display at the art and craft market

NORTHERN SUBURBS

Capegate Braai Challenge

  • Saturday, 6 September, whole day
  • Venue: Capegate Mall, Okavango Rd, Brackenfell
  • Price: Free for audience members

Ten finalists will step up for a sizzling showdown under the watchful eye of celebrity chef Bertus Basson in a culinary competition that celebrates South Africa’s iconic braai culture. The winner will walk away with an impressive prize package valued at R30,000.

Capegate Braai Challenge
SuppliedCapegate Braai Challenge


Launch: Harmony for Humanity

  • Saturday, 6 September. 10 am to 3 pm
  • Venue: Bossa Tyger Falls
  • Price: Free

The Harmony For Humanity Launch is a day devoted to empowering women, inspiring girls, and transforming communities by equipping them with the skills and opportunities needed for a brighter future.

Women of all races coming together
Photograph: Prostock-StudioUnity

 

WEST COAST

Secret Sunrise: Flower Power

  • Saturday, 6 September. 5 pm
  • Venue: Blouberg Beach
  • Price: From R50. Bookings via Quicket

Celebrate the start of spring with a dress-up edition of Secret Sunrise. Guests receive wireless headphones and are guided through an unforgettable blend of dance and play.

Listening to music on the beach
Photograph: danr13Group of people having a good time on the beach listening to music

Spring Flower Hike

Every year from August to September, West Coast National Park bursts into a vibrant and colorful flower season, and now is the perfect time to see it in full bloom. The circular Flower Trail is a short and easy walk that gives you plenty of moments to soak in the stunning spring blossoms up close.

ALSO READ: CapeNature’s Free Open Week is back!

Flowers blooming at the West Coast National Park
Facebook: SANParks - West Coast National ParkFlower season at West Coast National Park

CAPE WINELANDS

Winelands Bridal Fair 2025

  • Saturday, 6 September to Sunday, 7 September. 9 am to 4 pm
  • Venue: Klein Joostenberg. R304 Muldersvlei, Stellenbosch
  • Price: R100, bookings via Webtickets

If you haven’t said yes to the dress yet, don’t worry, this fair is here to ease the stress. Discover over 60 premium exhibitors, featuring everything from stunning wedding dresses and top photographers to breathtaking venues and expert beauty professionals. 

Wedding dresses
Photograph: ruslanshramkoArray of wedding dresses


Waterblommetjie Festival

  • Saturday, 6 September. 9:30 am to 8 pm
  • Venue: Rhebokskloof, Noord Agter Paarl
  • Price: Free entry

The annual Waterblommetjie Festival is back and ready to welcome the whole family! The waterblommetjie, or “little water flower,” is one of South Africa’s most famous edible plants. Harvested for only a short time each year, it’s a rare and highly sought-after ingredient that makes this festival truly special.

Waterblommetjiefees
Facebook: WaterblommetjiefeesWaterblommetjie Festival



Don't forget: Sign up to Time Out Cape Town's free newsletter here for expert recommendations on new and amazing things to do, see, eat and drink in the Mother City. Or follow Time Out Cape Town on FacebookInstagramand TikTok!

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