Events: What’s on in Cape Town

Will the sharks weather the storm? The DHL Stormers are set to face the Hollywoodbets Sharks on 24 January at the Stormers’ home ground, with kick-off scheduled for 7:30 pm. Fans can expect an intense clash as both teams battle it out under the Cape Town skies.

From 30 January to 7 March, Shakespeare’s 90-minute comedy Twelfth Night, directed by Steven Stead, will take the stage at Maynardville Park during the 70th Maynardville Open-Air Festival, bringing wit, romance, and mistaken identity to the iconic open-air venue.

If you’re in the southern suburbs, head down to the Newlands Market! It showcases a vibrant mix of proudly South African delights – from sweet treats and freshly baked goods to local art, fashion, and family-friendly activities. The market is free to attend and takes place at the Newlands Cricket Ground.

UK podcast duo ShxtsNGigs are bringing their unfiltered comedy and off-the-cuff storytelling to South Africa for the first time. Known for their viral episodes and unapologetic humour, hosts James Duncan and Fuhad will take the stage at the Grand Arena, GrandWest, on 27 January 2026.

The Silo Concerts continue at the V&A Waterfront’s Silo District, transforming the city’s urban square into a magical stage under the stars. On Friday, 2 January, the Acoustic Sunset will feature performances by Keanu Harker, James Stewart & John Ellis, and Jenny & James. Later, on Friday, 6 February, the Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra will join the free concert series, performing from 7 pm right in front of the Zeitz MOCAA Museum.

Ho Hey, Cape Town! American alternative folk giants The Lumineers are heading to the Mother City! They're kicking off 2026 with a bang as part of their The Automatic World Tour, performing live at the Grand Arena, GrandWest on 4 and 5 February 2026.

Ndlovu Youth Choir returns to Artscape from 5 to 8 February as part of their 2026 South African tour. The acclaimed ensemble will present a fresh and exciting setlist, celebrating South African favourites such as Pata Pata alongside international hits, all reworked in the Choir’s unmistakable, energetic style. 

Expect powerful harmonies, vibrant choreography, and the joyful spirit that has captivated audiences around the world.

Grammy Award-winning DJ and producer Black Coffee is set to bring an unforgettable weekend experience to the Mother City from 27 February to 1 March 2026. The highlight of the weekend – the main event on 28 February at The Ostrich – will feature an exclusive first-ever South African performance by international DJ, producer, and cultural icon Peggy Gou.

Tickets include access to premium bar areas, curated food stalls, and immersive brand activations. They’re selling fast, so act quickly!

Three days of over 120 of the world’s best tattoo artists from over 20 countries, specialising in various tattoo styles, doing what they do best right here in the heart of the Mother City. This year, the South African International Tattoo Convention will take place from 13 to 15 March at DHL Stadium.

While all ages are welcome to attend, only those over 18 will be able to get tattooed.

The Cape Town Carnival returns on 21 March to the Green Point Fan Walk, promising to be bigger, better, and bolder than ever. Now celebrating its 16th year, this vibrant free annual street parade draws nearly 50,000 spectators into the heart of the city for an unforgettable evening filled with music, movement, and magic.

Featuring over 1,500 performers, the Carnival is a dazzling showcase of culture, creativity, and community spirit – the kind of experience that reminds everyone why there’s truly no place like Cape Town.

The event no jazz enthusiast wants to miss is back! On 27 and 28 March, the CTICC will once again host the iconic Cape Town International Jazz Festival. Attendees can look forward to an extraordinary lineup of world-class artists, both local and international, including the UK’s Jacob Collier, the USA’s Yellowjackets, and South Africa’s own Nduduzo Makhathini and Sipho "Hotstix" Mabuse, among many others.

For the first time ever, Pretty Woman: The Musical comes to South Africa! Based on the iconic 1990 film starring Julia Roberts and Richard Gere, this dazzling production makes is making its South African debut at the Artscape from 19 March. Missing it would be a big mistake. Big. Huge!

Grammy Award-winning rock legend Bryan Adams is bringing his iconic sound to Cape Town for two unforgettable nights on 21 and 22 April 2026. As part of his highly anticipated Roll With The Punches World Tour, Adams will take the stage at the Grand Arena, GrandWest, performing a mix of classic hits and new material. Following his Cape Town shows, the tour will continue to Pretoria and Durban.

Comic Con Africa is back in the Mother City from 30 April to 3 May at the CTICC and it’s bringing all the geeky goodness with it. From rare comic books and epic collectibles to world-famous actors, superstar artists, and cosplayers who look like they’ve stepped straight out of another universe, this pop culture and gaming extravaganza is one you don’t want to miss.

Join Mickey Mouse on a spectacular adventure featuring world-class skating, high-flying acrobatics, unexpected stunts, and pure Disney magic from 10 to 19 July at the Grand Arena, GrandWest.

Mickey won’t be alone, as fan-favourite friends Minnie, Donald, Moana, Elsa, and Belle also take to the stage, promising an unforgettable experience for audiences of all ages.

Cape Town turns it on the first Thursday of every month. Think open galleries, buzzing streets, clinking glasses, and DJs spinning next to sculpture installations. It’s part art walk, part block party, and all about vibing with the city’s creative pulse – no tickets, no gatekeeping, just show up and soak it all in. Start in the CBD - Bree, Loop, or Church Square – and just follow the crowd (or the saxophone in the distance). The art’s great, and the people-watching is next level.