Amy Fraser

As if the mountain, oceans, vibrant city and dynamic culinary scene weren’t enough to keep you busy, Cape Town also brings the goods when it comes to a jam-packed schedule of concerts and events. We're tapping into all the vibes with our updated and expanded Events Guide to Cape Town. Across the city, you’ll find live music, vibey markets, special shows and fun events that are a total jol (that’s a ‘party’, in local lingo). Here's our hand-picked selection of the hottest events to head for in the Mother City. RECOMMENDED:📍 The best things to do in Cape Town🍝 The best restaurants in Cape Town🏖 The best beaches in Cape Town🛍 The best shops in Cape Town🏠 The best Airbnbs in Cape Town 🏨 The best hotels in Cape Town

Want to know where the locals love to go? In this exclusive series on Time Out Cape Town, ‘Local Intel’ taps into some of the city’s best-connected characters to unearth the corners you simply can’t miss in the Mother City. When you hear the word mohawk, there’s a good chance Carl Wastie’s name pops into your head. But beyond the signature hairstyle, it’s his unmistakable voice that’s become a daily soundtrack for many Capetonians. Whether he’s brightening your morning on the Expresso Show, keeping you company on your way home on Kfm, or bringing the energy as an event MC, Carl has earned his place as one of Cape Town’s most dynamic and down-to-earth media personalities. But what does the award-winning presenter get up to when he’s off-air? Time Out Cape Town caught up with Carl to find out how he spends his time in the Mother City. MORE CELEBS SHARE THEIR LOCAL SECRETS Comedian Alan Committie on his favourite breakfast spot Where designer Sindiso Khumalo shops for gifts Where Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis heads for coffee The GoodLuck guide to Cape Town!

Described as the gateway to Africa’s food and beverage sourcing landscape, the Africa Food Show is a dynamic three-day event held at the CTICC. Visitors can look forward to engaging with over 6,000 industry leaders, witnessing live demonstrations by top chefs and bakers, exploring emerging food trends, and connecting with more than 300 leading global suppliers.

The Phansi Museum, located in the historic Roberts House – a national monument – is a vibrant showcase of Southern African arts, crafts, and cultural heritage. This unique institution offers visitors an immersive journey through the region's rich artistic traditions, both old and new. What to expect during your visit: The museum spans three levels, each home to thoughtfully curated galleries, including: • Ngena Gallery • Phansi Goes Phezulu Gallery • Landing Gallery • Basement Gallery • Ikhishini Gallery Each space features exhibitions that highlight traditional beadwork, textiles, carvings, ceremonial objects and more. In addition to its permanent and rotating exhibitions, the Phansi Museum also has a publishing division that produces literature on crafts and cultural traditions. Time: • Monday to Friday: 8 am to 4 pm • Saturday: 10 am to 2 pm Price: • Children under 12: R20 • Children aged 12 to 16: R30 • Adults: R100

Tucked away on the Howard College campus at the University of KwaZulu-Natal’s School of Arts, the Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre is a cultural gem known for its vibrant performances and welcoming atmosphere. What to expect during your visit: Step into the theatre’s intimate 400-seat auditorium, where every seat offers a close-up view of the action. This cosy yet professional setting creates an immersive experience, drawing audiences into the heart of each performance – whether it’s a gripping drama, a lively musical, a concert or a dynamic dance production. Beyond the stage, visitors can enjoy refreshments at the on-site coffee shop or unwind at the Wellington Tavern, a stylish space that often hosts cocktail parties and private events. Price: Price is dependent on the performance.

Looking for a fun night out any day of the week? Visit Bokeh Karaoke Bar & Lounge, the ultimate spot to unleash your inner superstar! With two locations – one in Sea Point and a brand-new venue in Claremont – Bokeh is a go-to destination for unforgettable nights of music, laughter and good vibes. What to expect during your visit: Whether you're ready to take the stage or just there to cheer on the brave souls who do, both Bokeh locations offer a lively, welcoming atmosphere. Need a bit of courage before your debut? Grab a drink at the fully stocked bar or enjoy a bite from their food menu. Location and opening hours: Claremont: • Address: 11 Warwick Street• June: Friday and Saturday• July: Thursday to Saturday• August: Plans to be open seven days a week Sea Point: • Address: 84 Regent Road, Sea Point• Open seven days a week

Nestled within 3.5 hectares of lush tropical gardens, the Umgeni River Bird Park is one of Durban’s gems. Home to over 800 birds representing 200 different species, the park offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature in a vibrant, peaceful setting. What to expect during your visit: Created with the goal of educating visitors and celebrating the beauty and diversity of birdlife, the park offers something for everyone. Guests can enjoy guided tours that share fascinating insights into the birds and their habitats, or take in the excitement of the free-flight bird show. The park also serves as a unique venue for special events, making it an ideal setting for parties and group gatherings surrounded by lush natural scenery. Price: • Adults: R70 • Children: R46 • Pensioners: R39   Time: • Monday to Sunday: 9 am to 4 pm • Free-flight bird show: Tuesday to Sunday, 11 am to 2 pm

Hollywoodbets Greyville Racecourse, nestled at the foot of Durban’s Berea suburb, is home to the prestigious Hollywoodbets Durban July – South Africa’s premier horse racing event.  What to expect during your visit: The racecourse uniquely encircles the Royal Durban Golf Club’s championship course, offering a scenic and distinctive setting. Beyond the Durban July, Greyville hosts top-class horse racing events throughout the year, making it a cornerstone of the country's racing calendar. The venue also features the Durban View Restaurant, located on the first floor of the grandstand, where guests can enjoy dining with panoramic views of the track. Price: Prices are subject to change depending on the events taking place at the racecourse.

At the Museum of Illusions Cape Town, everything is not as it seems. With over 60 visual and educational exhibits, including optical illusions, holograms and immersive experiences, get ready to see things from a new perspective. Whether you’re planning on visiting with friends, family or by yourself, they have something for everyone of all ages. What to expect during your visit: Step into a world of illusion with three mind-bending rooms: the Vortex Tunnel, the Tilted Room, and the Reversed Room. For those unforgettable "double-take" moments, explore their jaw-dropping installations – put your Head on a Platter, multiply yourself at the Cloning Table, or try their iconic Beuchet Chair. Price: • Adults: R250 • Seniors: R200 • Children aged 4 to 12: R200 Time: • Sunday to Wednesday: 9 am to 8 pm • Thursday to Saturday: 9 am to 10 pm

Hollywoodbets Kings Park Stadium, famously nicknamed The Shark Tank, is the electrifying home of Durban’s beloved Sharks rugby team. With a roaring capacity of 52,000 fans, this iconic arena pulses with energy every matchday. Beyond hosting top-tier rugby action, the stadium also doubles as the training ground for future stars at the renowned Sharks Academy. Suite prices: Once-off suites: • Private suite: R2,395 per person • Shared suite: R1,995 per person   Annual suites: • Executive suite: from R7,750 per seat  • Premium suite: from R7,250 per seat • Classic suite: from R6,900 per seat  

Tucked in the heart of Musgrave on Stephen Dlamini Road, the Musgrave Market is a lively community hub where local small businesses come together to showcase their unique products and services. What to expect during your visit: Stroll through the market to the sound of live music, while enjoying tasty food, refreshing drinks, pre-loved treasures, stylish accessories, and plenty more. There’s also fun entertainment to keep the kids happy. Price: Entrance is free Time: Every Saturday, 9 am to 3 pm

Despite winter in Cape Town, Khayelitsha Fashion Week (KFW) is heating things up in its 10th year. Held at the Artscape Theatre on 7 June, the event showcases rising local designers, models, and photographers, offering a platform for bold township talent.

If you're yearning for a break from city life and a chance to reconnect with nature, make your way to PheZulu Safari Park in Durban. Nestled in the scenic Valley of 1000 Hills, the park is home to a variety of wildlife including zebra, impala, wildebeest, giraffes, and a stunning array of bird species – offering an unforgettable experience. What to expect during your visit: Beyond the thrilling game drives, PheZulu is also home to the PheZulu Reptile Park. Here, you can get up close with ancient tortoises, witness crocodile feeding sessions, take a guided reptile tour, or – if you're brave enough – dine in the crocodile enclosure itself. For a cultural adventure, immerse yourself in the vibrant traditions of the Zulu people. The world-renowned Gasa clan will captivate you with dance performances and a village tour. Price: Game drive: • Adults: R290 • Children under 12: R190   Zulu dance show: • Adults: R190 • Kids: R130   Reptile park: • Kids under 12: R60 • Adults: R75   Time: PheZulu Safari Park is open Monday to Sunday, from 8 am to 4:30 pm.

Crowned Africa’s Best Airport, Cape Town International Airport is also the continent’s third-largest. Whether you're picking up last-minute essentials for your journey or shopping for gifts for family and friends, the airport offers a wide variety of stores – from clothing and optometry to banking and pharmacy services. In addition to several airline-exclusive lounges, Cape Town International Airport features two Bidvest Premier Premium Lounges, ideal for relaxing before your flight. Lounge operating hours: Bidvest Premier Premium Lounge – Domestic Departures • Sunday to Friday: 5 am to 9 pm • Saturday: 5 am to 8 pm Bidvest Premier Premium Lounge – International Departures • Daily: 5 am to 11 pm   The airport also offers car rental services, complete with a dedicated collection and drop-off parking area for added convenience.

At the prestigious 2025 International Wine Challenge (IWC), Le Grand Domaine in Stellenbosch claimed top honours! Le Grand Domaine beat off competition from wineries in the Bordeaux, Napa and Coonawarra regions by winning both the 'International Cabernet Sauvignon Trophy' and the 'South African Cabernet Sauvignon Trophy' for its Le Grand Vin de Stellenbosch “La Grande Sélection” Cabernet Sauvignon 2022 vintage. Judges praised the wine as: “Dense, youthful colour. Cassis, blackcurrant, leafy black pepper and bouquet garni. Savoury, graphite lead, dark fruits with tar and mulberries over a tight, restrained, dry, lightly spiced finish.” PR companyLe Grand Domaine - Debbie Thompson and Harvest 2025 team “We are very pleased, indeed, with this outstanding result,” said Bernard Fontannaz, owner and founder of Le Grand Domaine. Winemaker Debbie Thompson, who joined the winery in 2020, added: “The IWC award is a powerful endorsement of what we’re quietly accomplishing at Le Grand Domaine.” Where is Le Grand Domaine Wines located? Le Grand Domaine sits atop the Devon Valley and overlooks the Stellenbosch mountains. Despite being relatively unknown, Devon Valley has seen the cultivation of vines since the 18th century. Looking to explore more of Cape Town's award-winning wine farms? We've got you covered with our 13 top picks. TIME OUT RECOMMENDS: 😋 The best restaurants in Cape Town🍳 The best breakfast and brunch spots in Cape Town🍷 The best wine farms in and around Cape Tow

It may be winter in Cape Town, but Khayelitsha Fashion Week (KFW) is turning up the heat. Now in its 10th year, the event is not only a celebration of style – it’s a powerful platform for rising local talent.  Hosted at the Artscape theatre, this year's edition is shining a spotlight on emerging designers, models, and photographers from in and around the township, giving them a stage to share their boldest and brightest creations. Over the past decade, KFW has been a trailblazer in challenging stereotypes and creating space for underrepresented voices in fashion. “This is where we celebrate the creatives of our township, where we celebrate fashion as a whole,” says Bongani Matenjwa, Director of Khayelitsha Fashion Week. “So this platform, to me, means a lot.” Instagram: Khayelitsha Fashion Week Matenjwa adds that KFW is especially meaningful because it’s opening doors for rural and township-based talent – many of whom have had little to no exposure to the fashion world. Most of their models had never set foot on a runway he says, but after just two months of training, people who never imagined themselves in fashion now confidently own the catwalk. Khayelitsha Fashion Week will take place at the Artscape Theatre in Cape Town on Saturday, 7 June, from 12 pm. Tickets are priced between R150 and R250.   TIME OUT RECOMMENDS: 😋 The best restaurants in Cape Town🍳 The best breakfast and brunch spots in Cape Town🍷 The best wine farms in and around Cape Town🍕 The best pizza in

The Cape of Good Hope SPCA has confirmed that the wandering elephant seal, now affectionately known as Gordy, has hauled out again – this time at the Naval Base in Simon’s Town following quite the swim across False Bay. Google Maps Gordy made his first appearance on Tuesday, 27 May in Gordon’s Bay, Cape Town, during the early hours of the morning. He was discovered lounging alongside Sir Lowry’s Pass Road. What followed was a nearly nine-hour rescue option. “Wild animals don’t always follow the script, and this seal’s unexpected journey into a residential area created real cause for concern,” said Belinda Abraham, spokesperson for the Cape of Good Hope SPCA. SPCA Now, the SPCA has given an update, sharing that the internet sensation has made his return to land, but is in a safe and secure location with no immediate threats to his well-being. They'll continue to keep a close eye on his condition.  In case you missed it, take a look at Gordy making his unexpected visit in Gordon's Bay earlier this week: View this post on Instagram A post shared by Time Out Cape Town (@timeout.capetown) If you spot any similar incidents, call 0217004158/9. They are available on this number 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.  And on a lighter note - our sister publication Time Out Johannesburg had a bit of fun tapping into Gordy's wanderlust, read more about it here. TIME OUT RECOMMENDS: 😋 The best restaurants in Cape Town🏨 The best hotels in Cape Town🍳 The best break