Events: What’s on in Cape Town

Located at the Alphen Common in the heart of Constantia, the Alphen Market is a vibrant destination offering a blend of delicious food, family-friendly entertainment, live music, and unique shopping experiences. With over 100 traders and fully licensed bars, it’s a must-visit for locals and visitors alike. This pet-friendly market operates on select weekends each month from 9 am, weather permitting:

• September: 27, 28
• October: 4 & 5, 25 & 26
• November: 8 & 9, 29 & 30
• December: 13 & 14, 20 & 21

The Corrs, Ireland’s most successful musical family, are set to embark on their first-ever tour of South Africa. The sibling quartet – Andrea, Caroline, Jim, and Sharon – have sold over 40 million albums worldwide since their acclaimed 1995 debut, Forgiven, Not Forgotten. For one night only, they will perform at the Grand Arena, GrandWest on 25 November. Fans can look forward to an unforgettable night of their signature blend of sleek pop-rock and Celtic folk.

This festive season, the Castle of Good Hope tranforms into one of Cape Town’s favourite markets – Kuier@TheCastle.

On 29 November and 13 December, visitors can look forward to meeting and supporting talented local makers, showcasing everything from homeware and fashion to art and more. Enjoy a selection of local bites, live music, and a lekker atmosphere that the whole family can enjoy. Children under the age of 7 enter free.

Missed your chance to see the sold-out run of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat? Good news – it's coming back to Cape Town this October! This high-energy musical, inspired by the biblical tale of Joseph and his coat of many colours, bursts with a vibrant mix of musical styles, from country and calypso to rock ‘n’ roll. Catch the return run at Theatre on the Bay, starting 4 October.

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! On 30 November, Cape Town will once again light up the summer sky as thousands gather on the Grand Parade and along Adderley Street for the 56th edition of the Festive Lights Switch-On. This much-loved, free, family-friendly event returns under the uplifting theme "United in Hope," promising an evening of joy, unity, and celebration. While the artist line-up is still a surprise, be sure to keep an eye on social media for exciting announcements!

Surf Expo Africa is South Africa’s first trade show dedicated to ocean sports and beach lifestyle, happening at the CTICC from 28 to 30 November. Expect thousands of ocean lovers coming together to celebrate surf, paddle, dive, swim, and the future of our blue planet.

Tip Out Tip: Heading to the Mother City for the expo? Don’t miss our guide to the best local waves!

The world’s top rugby sevens teams are returning to Cape Town for a weekend of world-class sport, live music, great food, and unbeatable vibes. On 6 and 7 December, DHL Stadium will transform into a gees-filled hotspot. Rally your crew, dress for the occasion, and get ready for a truly lekker time!

Time Out Tip: Looking to fuel up first? Here are the best spot for pre- and post-match bites near the stadium

Hidden Giants, the innovative live show that fuses science, storytelling, and music, is finally coming to Cape Town from 11 to 14 December 2025 at The Star Theatre, Homecoming Centre. Audiences will be transported across galaxies in an immersive journey through space, sound, and the boundless depths of human curiosity.

Inspired by the world’s first image of a black hole, Hidden Giants explores the awe-inspiring nature of these cosmic titans and the remarkable human innovation that made it possible to "see the unseeable."

For the first time ever, Cape Town will host the season finale of the 2025 FIM World Supercross Championship. On 13 December, the world’s top riders will go head-to-head at DHL Stadium in a high-stakes battle that promises edge-of-your-seat action, intense rivalries, and a night of pure adrenaline as the championship reaches its conclusion.

‘Tis the season! The beloved Cape Town Carols at Kirstenbosch returns; brighter, merrier, and more festive than ever! From 18 to 21 December, get ready to spread out your  picnic blankets, gather your friends and family, and celebrate the magic of the season beneath the stars.

Whether ticking off the last of the Christmas shopping list or simply wanting to sing along to favourite holiday classics while enjoying great food, this cherished tradition offers something for everyone. No Grinches allowed!

Inspired by Lewis Carroll’s beloved tales, Cape Town City Ballet’s brand-new production of Alice in Wonderland invites audiences on a whimsical journey through a world of curious creatures and mischievous characters.

Opening on 12 December at Artscape, this enchanting ballet is choreographed by the internationally acclaimed Gerard Charles. Tickets are expected to sell fast, so book early, or you might just find yourself saying, "I’m late! I’m late! For a very important date!"

The Masque Theatre is serving up its annual dose of fairytale magic this festive season with a brand-new production, The Princess and The Pea, opening on 12 December. In this charming retelling, Princess Anika must discover what it truly means to be a fair and just ruler, young Eli learns to stand up for himself, and dear Stefan realises there’s more to him than just good looks.

Written and directed by Savannah Steyn, this hearty production promises a delightful blend of song, dance, laughter, and local flair, featuring music from Freshlyground, Jesse and Johnny Clegg, and Shekhinah.

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.

Get your bank cards ready and mark your calendars – UK singer-songwriter Calum Scott is returning to Cape Town in 2026 to light up the iconic Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens as part of his 'Avenoir Tour'. He’ll be performing on 14 January 2026, with tickets going on sale at 9am on 28 May 2025.

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.

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.