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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.
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.
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.
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.
ATLANTIC SEABOARD
DHL Western Province vs Sanlam Boland Cavaliers
- Saturday, 6 September. 3 pm
- Venue: DHL Stadium, Greenpoint
- Price: From R60 via Ticketmaster
The Carling Currie Cup Round 7 clash marks the first meeting between the two provincial rivals since 2016.
Bridgerton High Tea at 12 Apostles
- Sunday, 7 September. 1 pm - 4 pm
- Venue: The 12 Apostles Hotel, Victoria Rd
- Price: R695. Bookings via email: restaurants@12apostles.co.za
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.
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.
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.
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
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Spring Flower Hike
- Friday, 5 September. 9 am to 1:15 pm
- Venue: Langebaan Gate of the West Coast National Park
- Price: R350, excluding park entry fee. Bookings via Quicket
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!
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.
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.
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