Writer by day, dreamer by night, Marchelle Abrahams grew up in the wild west of dial-up internet, back when that screechy connection tone was the soundtrack to our digital awakening. 

A seasoned lifestyle journalist and editor, she discovered her passion for storytelling in organisations and people who uplift their communities.

Hailing from the Cape Flats, Marchelle carries with her a deep love for stories of resilience, grit, and empowerment. And while her passport may gather stamps, Cape Town will forever be her first love, a city where creativity and beauty intertwine.
Marchelle Abrahams

Marchelle Abrahams

City Expert, Time Out Cape Town

Articles (11)

The 20 best places to visit for First Thursdays in Cape Town

The 20 best places to visit for First Thursdays in Cape Town

Tokyo has its karaoke bars. Athens has its taverns. Cape Town has First Thursdays. What started as a free monthly initiative to encourage locals to visit art galleries and cultural centres after dark has now morphed into an institution of sorts. Inspired by similar events in London, co-founders Gareth Pearson and Michael Tymbios wanted to put a unique spin on the event. In a 2015 post on Medium, Pearson said that the premise behind the concept was for art galleries and other cultural attractions within a walkable area to stay open late on the first Thursday of every month. The duo explained: “The very first edition in November 2012 included just six spots on the map, one being a little pop-up exhibition we threw together in an empty retail space.” These days, First Thursdays is a whole lot more than walking Bree Street. It’s the infectious spirit of a city that plays hard. How about injecting some early excitement into your Easter Long Weekend with Time Out Cape Town’s ultimate guide to First Thursdays? Sign up to Time Out Cape Town's free newsletter for expert recommendations on new things to do, see, eat and drink in the Mother City. You can also follow Time Out Cape Town on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok! TIME OUT RECOMMENDS: 😋 The best restaurants in Cape Town🏹 The best hotels in Cape Town🍳 The best breakfast and brunch spots in Cape TownđŸ·Â The best wine farms in and around Cape Town🍕 The best pizza in Cape Town📍 The best things to do in Cape Town
The best curated club scenes in Cape Town

The best curated club scenes in Cape Town

The rave scene in The Matrix Reloaded (2003) always has me feeling some kinda way. Maybe it’s the way their sweaty bodies move in unison like a single organism, or that they’re dancing because the end of the world is nigh. Fluke’s Zion provides the backing track for the iconic setting. Today, it remains a classic in the progressive house genre. That single take was reflective of music’s power to evoke a frenzy of passion and community. And that, in a nutshell, is indicative of what club culture is. It’s the coming together of people who share a common love for music. Dance. Companionship. Connection. That trend is more evident than ever. Before the pandemic, nightclubs were packed to the rooftops with queues of patrons waiting to get in. Wear the wrong outfit? Gated. Look inappropriate? Gated. Under the influence? Gated. Well, the last one is warranted. But there was a certain aesthetic attached to gaining entry.  Meet some of the creatives behind these events Pulling off any of the suggested experiences we've curated below requires a team of creative minds who are exceptional at their work. Nobody knows this better than LĂ©a Debbah, the founder of Edition Events. Debbah started hosting events at the tail end of the pandemic when people were craving connection. “I saw an opportunity to bring people together through music, creativity, and culture in a more intentional way,” she explains. Debbah wanted to create spaces that were more inclusive and diverse. “From the beginning, i
A guide to Ramadan in Cape Town

A guide to Ramadan in Cape Town

Welcome, fellow land dwellers. If you’re reading this, you’re almost a week into the Holy Month of Ramadan and have already run out of Iftar ideas. Or, maybe you’re curious about how Muslims observe Ramadan in Cape Town. Either way, you’re in the right place.  A spiritual reset This year, Ramadan began on Wednesday, 18 February, coinciding with the start of the Chinese New Year and the beginning of Christianity’s Lent, and marking a rare overlap of sacred calendars.  For Muslims, Ramadan typically lasts between 29 and 30 days, meaning it’s expected to end on or around Wednesday, 18 March or Thursday, 19 March 2026. As always, the final date is determined by the moon's sighting and marked by the joyous celebration of Eid al-Fitr.  It is most significantly associated with fasting from sunrise to sunset. Yes, kinda like intermittent fasting, for the wellness crowd. Only, the intention behind it isn’t the physical sacrifice of giving up food and drink. The act of fasting is a spiritual reset and a time for reflection and gratitude. Unfortunately, social media has dimmed the significance of the occasion leading up to Eid al-Fitr. Islam has become more of an aesthetic for influencers during Ramadan. The beauty, the food, and the decor all appear so exotic. But many don’t go into the “why” and the “how” of the holiest month on the Islamic calendar.  A word of advice: Even if you’re curious or have Muslim friends or family, do your research, and I don’t mean TikTok posts or memes. No
The 6 best junior gym memberships in Cape Town

The 6 best junior gym memberships in Cape Town

When I was 11, the only exercise I got was scaling our back wall, climbing the neighbour’s tree, and attempting to retrieve the juiciest loquats.  The kids these days are built differently. They’re hanging out at coffee shops, playing board games with their chommies. They’re connecting at silent book clubs and joining gyms.  For Generation Alpha (born between 2010 and 2024), fitness centres and sports clubs are becoming the new social spaces. They are less formal and far less intimidating than school extramural activities. Gym culture is the new cool, and private gyms and franchises are locking into that trend. More Gyms Courting the Younger Generation The United States first noticed the uptick in younger memberships in 2024. According to the Health & Fitness Association, the older portion of Gen Alpha (16-year-olds) accounted for 30.8% of total gym memberships. That’s a third of many gym’s annual membership income. And while pre-teens don’t qualify for independent contracts, many are using their parents’ memberships to take advantage of the perks. That soon, too, might come to an end, because Cape Town gyms get it. They’re feeding into the zeitgeist and early adoption of healthy habits. It’s called supply and demand. Check out below which Mother City gyms are game for junior members. RECOMMENDED:📍 The best things to do in Cape TownđŸœïž The best restaurants in Cape Town🍾 The best bars in Cape Town🛏 Where to stay in Cape Town
The 10 best scenic drives around Cape Town

The 10 best scenic drives around Cape Town

I read an article the other day about how generations born during the boom of the Internet era will never experience the simple pleasures of childhood. It’s knocking on a friend’s door when wanting to play or waiting for the street lights to turn on, your cue that it’s time to go home. For me, Sundays were the best. My sister and I knew that if we behaved ourselves, our father would take us for a Sunday afternoon drive after lunch. If the planets aligned, and Neptune was in retrograde, we’d all pack into our Nissan Skyline, my dad’s pride and joy.  Yho, the way he loved that car! Most of us grew up looking forward to Sunday drives, whether it was a trip around the Cape Peninsula or through the Huguenot Tunnel. Now you can make your own memories with Time Out’s 10 scenic drives for a lazy Sunday afternoon.
Best Christmas Day lunches in Cape Town

Best Christmas Day lunches in Cape Town

By the time you read this, you’re probably planning your Christmas Day lunch. If not, then you should at least be thinking about it, right? No? Procrastination is not going to get that table booked.  And because Cape Town is tourist-central every festive season, time is not on your side.  Depending on your mood and budget, Time Out has curated a list of spots around the Mother City to enjoy a memorable Christmas lunch, ranging from buffet-style to the very top-notch experiences.   Why go mediocre when you can spend all your money on yourself? Cape Town is home to award-winning restaurants. So take advantage of it!  And of course, we haven’t forgotten about the plant-based fans. Thankfully, restaurants are catering to environmentally conscious tastes.    Time Out Tip: Besides MIKO, other eateries are extending their culinary prowess with vegan dishes. And they’re pretty decent as well. No “swap out this for this” options.  
The 7 best high teas in Cape Town

The 7 best high teas in Cape Town

Many associate high tea with aristocrats and royalty. But here’s a little braai broodjie morsel for you. You’re right to assume it has its roots in 19th-century Britain. What you might not know is that high tea was first thought up by the working class.  The modern version of supper, these hardworking men and women would have a substantial evening meal after a long day’s work. They’d eat at a high dining table, unlike the rich folks who preferred a “low tea,” a social affair served at low chairs and low tables. And here we thought high tea was all about sipping from a porcelain teacup with your right pinky finger pointed out.  If you fancy a cuppa, Time Out is serving the tea (piping hot) on the best high tea spots in Cape Town, high brows and higher dining tables not included.
Best New Year’s Eve parties in and around Cape Town

Best New Year’s Eve parties in and around Cape Town

You know that song ‘Dilemma’ by K.Keed? She raps, “I feel like bad decisions”. This line basically describes what New Year’s Eve should be. Do people still do that? Use one night of the year to throw away their name and their inhibitions for the sake of spontaneity? I get it. I was once young, free, and regretting my life choices, and a New Year’s Eve party gave me carte blanche to do silly things without worrying about the consequences. Now, people think before they act, which is always a good thing. But if you plan on painting the town red, do so responsibly. In the meantime, here’s a list of New Year’s Eve events happening in and around Cape Town. As a country, we’ve gone through the most this year, so let’s show 2025 flames and send her off with a bang. Psst: Keep an eye on this list as we'll add more parties as they become available. 
The 7 best lesser-known art galleries in Cape Town

The 7 best lesser-known art galleries in Cape Town

Like music, art is subjective. Either you like it or you don’t.  I remember once visiting a wine farm in Franschhoek to do a story on hotel galleries, and came across a piece. I don’t recall the artist, but what stuck with me was the look in the woman’s eyes. It was jarring and evocative. The oil painting evoked feelings of longing and melancholy.  If tragic beauty could be immortalised in a painting, this would be the benchmark. The reality is that it was hidden beyond the reach of everyday people, part of a private collection only for the eyes of the wealthy and privileged. Many view the idea of visiting an art gallery as a walkabout at the Zeitz MOCAA or a collection at the South African National Gallery. Yet, there’s another world of independent galleries that spotlight artists and strive to make their work more accessible. Even established creatives are championing the next generation. Award-winning visual artist Blessing Ngobeni is an outspoken advocate for creating platforms and accessibility to art. This is a man who took his lived experience, having spent several years behind bars, and used it as the match to light the spark. His art mirrors society: the light and the dark. For Ngobeni, making art accessible is important, and he adds that even dealers and galleries are open to discussing payment terms. “We don’t mind because if we don’t do that, we don’t participate in changing the narrative of ownership of art.” You don’t need to be an avid art lover to appreciate i
The 7 Best Cape Town spots for the most refreshing mango lassi

The 7 Best Cape Town spots for the most refreshing mango lassi

My childhood summers consisted of three drinks: metallic-tasting water straight from the tap, Sparletta, and tea. Yet, nothing beats the cold, refreshing taste of Oros aan-maak (premix) drink as it hits the back of your throat. Sweet and sour intertwined in a marriage of convenience. Throw in a few ice cubes, and you’ve got the mocktail equivalent of the Screwdriver. Nothing compared to it until I made the mango lassi’s acquaintance. The sun was a big, bright, shiny disk in the sky. I was hot, agitated, and heavily pregnant. Not an Oros in sight. My husband returned to our stuffy one-bedroom flat, bearing a gift. One sip and I was a gone girl.  Fresh mango pulp, yogurt, honey, cardamom, and crushed ice. The combination is really the girl she thinks she is. The drink has its origins in the Punjab region of India and dates back to around 1000 BC, according to foodie blog Classic Indian. While most of us enjoy it as a summer drink, mango lassi was initially used as a digestive aid. How’s that for your Chappies installment of “Did you know
” While the rest of the globe raves about matcha this and matcha that, nothing trumps a fresh mango lassi. For those who prefer their drinks without viral hype, we’ve curated a list of lesser-known cafes and food joints that serve the authentic Indian drink as we head into summer.
The best summer festivals in and around Cape Town

The best summer festivals in and around Cape Town

Can you feel it? That gees in the air? Summer is creeping in, and if you’ve played your cards right, you’ve probably already managed to sneak in a beach day (or two). We try to stay humble, we really do, but let’s be honest: when it comes to enjoying the festive season, is there anywhere better than Cape Town? (Spoiler: there isn’t. And no, we’re not taking feedback at this time.) From sunrise strolls along Muizenberg Beach to golden hour sundowners in Camps Bay, the Mother City really knows how to do summer right. As the days get longer, the vibes get lighter, and everyone collectively remembers what joy feels like, so we’ve rounded up the very best summer festivals happening in and around Cape Town. If enjoying a picnic with a drink in hand while local artists take the stage is more of your vibe, check out the full Kirstenbosch Summer Sunset Concerts line-up! TIME OUT RECOMMENDS: 😋 The best restaurants in Cape Town🏹 The best hotels in Cape Town🍳 The best breakfast and brunch spots in Cape TownđŸ·Â The best wine farms in and around Cape Town🍕 The best pizza in Cape Town📍 The best things to do in Cape Town Sign up to Time Out Cape Town's free newsletter for expert recommendations on new things to do, see, eat and drink in the Mother City. You can also follow Time Out Cape Town on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok! Time Out makes a small commission from the affiliate links included in this article. These links have no influence on our editorial content, but they do allow u

News (38)

Short doccies take the spotlight at Encounters Film Festival

Short doccies take the spotlight at Encounters Film Festival

Encounters, Africa’s leading documentary festival, is back and Cape Town is once again at the heart of it.  Running from 4-14 June 2026, the festival brings a packed lineup of screenings, masterclasses, panels, and Q&As, with the Mother City leading the charge, including the African premiere of TUYU - detailing the life of Nobel Peace Prize laureate Desmond Tutu.  This year, it’s the short films stealing the spotlight. “Short documentaries are becoming more popular every year,” said festival director Mandisa Zitha. “They’re no longer just a launchpad; they’re where some of the boldest, most urgent storytelling is happening right now.” The City of Cape Town has also given its seal of approval. “The City of Cape Town is proud to stand behind Encounters,” added Alderman JP Smith. “This festival creates a powerful platform for voices that matter, both at home and across the globe.” The lineup for this year’s showcase is sharp and striking. Standouts include Vet vannie Land, a gritty look at botanist Pieter van Wyk’s fight to protect the Richtersveld and Succulent Karoo from poaching syndicates. Mama Micra is a wildly original stop-motion portrait of a life lived off the grid. The Spectacle is a clever take on our obsession with photographing “perfect” destinations.  Then there’s Voices from the Abyss, diving into the high-risk world of Mexico’s cliff-diving community. SuppliedEncounters: Vet vannie Land, a look at botanist Pieter van Wyk’s fight to protect the Richtersveld and
Jason Vanporppal is only $6K away from his target to build Africa’s biggest skatepark

Jason Vanporppal is only $6K away from his target to build Africa’s biggest skatepark

Motivational speaker David Goggins once said, “Don’t stop when you’re tired, stop when you’re done.” US skateboarder Jason Vanporppal took those words literally and skateboarded from Kampala, Uganda, to Cape Town in 106 days. The professional skateboarder journeyed across the continent (6,000km) to raise funds to build a skatepark for disadvantaged children in Uganda. Starting in February, Jason’s adventure took him through Rwanda, Tanzania, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Botswana, and South Africa. What started as a fundraising trek morphed into a case study on Ubuntu.  Social media has been littered with videos of Jason being greeted with homemade signs and strangers cheering him on. Along the way, people offered food, beds, hugs, police escorts, and prayers to the "American guy skating through Africa.” Upon his arrival in Cape Town, Jason received an even bigger welcome at the  from social media followers and fans.  View this post on Instagram A post shared by Jason Vanporppal (@jaayfilms) The inspiration behind his big, bold, beautiful journey is Ugandan skaters Isaac and Ephraim. Speaking to Independent Media Travel before reaching Cape Town, Jason said many young skaters in Uganda are forced to practice on dirt roads and in public spaces. “When I went there and saw it with my own eyes, I realised the skate community lacks resources.”  So far, his GoFundMe initiative has raised more than $44K of the detailed $50K (about R818,000) target to build the
What's on in Cape Town this June!

What's on in Cape Town this June!

June is essentially celebrated as Youth Month, with Tuesday, 16 June commemorating the 1976 Soweto Uprising. The day marked a critical point in the fight against the apartheid government. Yes, it’s a public holiday, but it’s a chance to volunteer with your local NPO for a few hours this month. Artscape is hosting a fundraising event on Youth Day. Funds raised go directly to the Cape Town City Ballet to support its work as one of the world’s oldest ballet companies. The week after Father’s Day (Sunday, 21 June), they will also hosts Innovative Poets Spoken Word: Lessons from My Father (Father’s Day Edition). It’s an unconventional alternative to the typical Father’s Day gifts. The big hitters on this month’s event calendar are Decorex Cape Town (25 - 28 June) and Encounters South African International Documentary Festival (4 - 14 June) - set to open with a powerful look at Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu's life.    CBD The Great Mass: Mozart’s Mass in C Minor, K. 427/417, and Vesperae Solennes de Confessore KV 339 (Vespers for the Saints) Saturday, 6 June - Sunday, 7 June, 7pm and 5:30pm Location: Cape Town City Hall, Darling St Cost: From R136, bookings via Quicket The Symphony Choir is bringing something special to South African audiences. Performed here for the very first time, Mozart’s Vesperae Solennes de Confessore (1780) is a stunning six-part choral piece written for Salzburg Cathedral. Think soaring solos, rich choir moments, and the iconic Laudate Dominum, all wov
Mickey and the gang to rock the house!

Mickey and the gang to rock the house!

Folks, take this as a fair warning: Disney on Ice will be rolling into town in July. Be prepared to part with your cash because the rents, aka the little ones, will soon be dictating their school holiday plans. And those who know, know that once they get wind of the news, the Frozen soundtrack will be playing on repeat in your home (cue the Let It Go sing-along) in the run-up to the Greatest Show on Earth. The sparkle lands at GrandWest from Friday, 10 July to Sunday, 19 July. Just in time to rescue your winter school holiday plans (and your sanity).  This year’s show, Mickey’s Search Party, is big on spectacle and even bigger on “how are they doing that on ice?” From jaw-dropping skating and aerial stunts to immersive sets, the most screen-obsessed kiddo will be entertained.  Disney On IceThe classical rule this holidays The classics rule There’s something for everyone. Mickey and friends are on a treasure hunt to find Tinker Bell (classic Hook behaviour), taking you through a whirlwind of Disney worlds. Moana braves the ocean (yes, it gets dramatic). Elsa builds an ice palace mid-show (very on-brand). Coco’s Land of the Dead is brought to life in full colour. Toy Story chaos with Buzz, Woody, and the gang. And then, just for the parentals, there’s a Little Mermaid and Aladdin nostalgia. Basically, it’s a greatest-hits tour with acrobatics, flips, and enough energy to tire the kids out before bedtime. You’re welcome! “We’ve been looking forward to opening this show since w
Cape Town green lights multi-million public library upgrades

Cape Town green lights multi-million public library upgrades

Cape Town's libraries have been earmarked for a multi-million-rand investment to strengthen these public spaces for residents of all ages across the Mother City, with better learning and studying facilities and improved internet access.  In many lower-income areas, libraries are safe havens where schoolchildren do their homework and work on projects. They’re also a lifesaver for job seekers who access the internet.   The City of Cape Town (CoCT) refurbishment plans for several of its public libraries  will provide “modern, accessible, and user-focused environments that continue to offer spaces where residents learn, study, access the internet, and spend time safely”, according to Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health, Councillor Francine Higham. “With over seven million visits in 2025, our 102 public libraries are some of the most well-used public spaces in our communities in Cape Town,” she said.    City of Cape TownCouncillor Francine Higham with Woodstock library personnel Lindiwe Majola(left) and Nozolo Gaba(right) Expansions, restoration work, and reopenings One library set for a major expansion is Lwandle Library in Lwandle, Strand. Officially known as the Lwandle Hector Peterson Memorial Library, CoCT plans to double the building's size with an investment of R14.9 million.  The library is closed during renovations, which are ongoing until December 2026. Patrons are urged to use the Strand, Gordon’s Bay, Somerset West, or Sir Lowry’s Pass librar
Why these small towns are leading 'lifestyle' investment hotspots

Why these small towns are leading 'lifestyle' investment hotspots

As Cape Town property prices continue to climb, more buyers are looking beyond the city for something increasingly difficult to find in the metro: space, affordability, and a more laid-back lifestyle. Semigration has shifted. It’s no longer just about Johannesburg families moving to the Western Cape - it’s increasingly about Capetonians themselves moving out of Cape Town and into smaller towns along the Winelands, Overberg, West Coast, and Garden Route. According to independent economist John Loos, there’s little evidence of a 'reverse semigration' trend out of the Western Cape due to the rise in the property affordability gap. Instead, there is a significant shift within the province itself, as buyers move away from the city and into smaller regional markets where homes offer better value and lifestyle appeal.  That’s why towns like Tulbagh, Barrydale, Paternoster, Bonnievale, and Kleinmond are becoming increasingly attractive. Lifestyle is driving the shift Semigration is still deeply lifestyle-led. Buyers want walkable beaches, mountain views, less traffic, cleaner environments and communities that feel slower and more connected. Reliable fibre and remote work flexibility mean many professionals no longer need to choose between career access and quality of life. Better municipal services and stronger infrastructure in many Western Cape towns also continue to drive confidence among buyers. Loos notes that governance and service delivery remain major factors reinforcing the
What's on in Cape Town this May!

What's on in Cape Town this May!

Welcome to the Secret Season (aka May), when the weather is mild yet pleasant, and there are fewer crowds. It’s probably one of the rare times that Cape Town belongs to its people. Starting the month off strong is Workers’ Day (Friday, 1 May). Yay for another long weekend! If you’re in the mood for a lekker braai, make a day of it at the Worcester Braai Festival. The three-day event celebrates the best of braai culture, including music and food, obviously. Entanglements - Cape Town, hosted at Ganesh, Observatory, kicks off at 11am. The grassroots music festival aims to create an inclusive, borderless space where all sounds are equal. Don’t forget Mother’s Day (Sunday, 10 May). Chances are, if you haven’t booked that lunch yet, you’ll find yourself in the Woolies rotisserie chicken line as soon as the store opens.  From Tuesday, 19 May, Carmen comes to the Artscape. Widely considered one of the most performed operas worldwide, the show will run until Sunday, 31 May. Ending off the month is the Boyz II Men Live in South Africa Tour. No matter how many times the R&B group comes to South Africa, their shows always sell out. Sorry for you if you haven’t secured your ticket yet. It’s not the end of the road. Word on the street is that SecretEATS is hosting another secret dinner this month at an undisclosed venue. The only info we have is that you should keep the evening of Sunday, 24 May, open. Visit the website to request a private invitation to join the soirĂ©e. CBD Carmen Tuesda
SA’s Blue Train named among the world’s most scenic train journeys

SA’s Blue Train named among the world’s most scenic train journeys

If there’s ever been a moment for South Africans to collectively say, “Ya, we told you so,” this is it. The iconic Blue Train, our pride, our joy, our rolling five-star flex, has officially been named among the world’s top 15 most beautiful train journeys.  Topping the leaderboard was Japan’s Sagano Romantic Train. The Bernina Express in Italy ranked second. The Ghan (Australia) rounded off the top 15. The rankings weren’t based on vibes alone. According to InsureandGo, researchers used eye-tracking technology to measure how long people focused on different landscapes during train journeys. Their findings? The Blue Train didn’t just impress; it held attention, with an average of 1.58 seconds. That’s next-level scenic, putting it in 14th place. The luxury train ride between Cape Town and Pretoria (54 hours, 1,600km) is basically a greatest-hits tour of South African landscapes. Starting with the lush vineyards of the Western Cape, and then easing into the golden stillness of the Karoo, the Blue Train is one of a kind. One minute it’s all greenery and mountain backdrops, the next it’s big skies and endless horizons. It’s giving “road trip,” but without the padkos crumbs and questionable Wimpy coffee. Sorry, Wimpy! Of course, the Blue Train isn’t just about what’s outside the window. It’s what’s inside, too. The journey leans all the way into luxury. Think elegant suites, gourmet meals, and personalized service that makes you feel like royalty (or at least like you’ve made some
What's on in Cape Town this April

What's on in Cape Town this April

April is officially showing us flames - and honestly, I ain't mad about it. With public holidays stacking up like nobody's business (Good Friday on the 3rd, Easter Monday on the 6th, Freedom Day on the 27th), the month is essentially one long invitation to be somewhere excellent. Easter Weekend kicks off with Handel's Messiah at City Hall, the Two Oceans Marathon winding through the Cape Peninsula, and The Lawns catering especially for the little ones on Easter Sunday. Then the month builds: three nights of Bryan Adams at GrandWest, a daytime festival headlined by Basement Jaxx, the world's most beautiful race, and enough wine, food, and ballroom dancing to see you through to Freedom Day. AfrikaBurn rises from the Karoo on the 27th. Ella Mai and Ultra CPT are on the same Sunday. The disrespect from event organisers! I'd like to speak with the manager. But ending the month off strong is Comic Con Cape Town, where everyone gets to come as you are, as you were, as a friend - as Nirvana famously sang.  TIME OUT TIP:  Plan your Freedom Day long weekend! Freedom Day falls on a Monday, 27 April this year, creating a long weekend that the city has already fully committed to filling. The final stretch of April is stacked: Ultra CPT and Ella Mai on Sunday the 26th, the Bubbly Festival and Wine & Food Festival wrapping up on Saturday 25th, Comic Con running through to 3 May, AfrikaBurn kicking off in the Karoo, and the LEGACY Pageant Ball providing the ideal Freedom Day Eve celebration.
Out and About in Cape Town: Things to do this weekend

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

If “I’m bored” were a person, you’d be side-eying your kid right now. Lucky for you, the start of the first-term school holidays brings with it lots of fun adventures for mahala.  First up is the Cape Town Sixes Festival. Spectators get free entry to cheer on up-and-coming talent from the sidelines. Another freebie is Cape Town Opera presents Opera Blocks: Under the Sea, an immersive musical production for tiny tots. And then we have the Wynberg Family Festival and an Easter cookie decorating workshop. For the adults, there’s Paradisco: Gypsy Woman (mermaids only) and an over-30s party. Those of ya’ll who managed to secure tickets to the Cape Town International Jazz Festival, have fun, but not too much fun. CBD Jazz pianist Hilton Schilder Returns Friday, 27 March, 7pm - 9pm Venue: Alliance Francaise Du Cap, 155 Loop St, Cape Town City Centre Cost: From R150, bookings via Quicket For those of you who snoozed on their CTIJF tickets, this one’s for you. Jazz pianist Hilton Schilder will perform in Khaw’phinde Mzala fashion at the Alliance Francaise. You’re welcome! Instagram: jazzinthenativeyardsHilton Schilder returns for the Jazz Night at Alliance Francaise Du Cap Cosmic Sound Journey Saturday, 28 March, 5pm - 7pm Venue: Iziko Planetarium & Digital Dome, 25 Queen Victoria St, Cape Town City Centre Cost: From R550, bookings via Quicket Janet Farquharson (Janet’s Planet) invites you to be present, intentional, and to embark on a sound journey with an open mind and an open
Out and About in Cape Town: Things to do this weekend

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

We’re inching closer to the Autumn Equinox; Friday to be exact. Symbolising the balance of light and dark, the auspicious event traditionally honours the harvest. Why not join Happy Culture for a guided silent sunset movement journey on Camps Bay Beach? Also, the Cape Town Carnival is happening at the Green Point Fan Walk from 6pm on Saturday. Hopefully, the weather won’t dampen your plans to head out to the CDB with the family.  Talking about wholesome family fun, Kirstenbosch Gardens is hosting an Earth Hour event for little ones with a special screening of The Lorax. For the rest of ya’ll, there’s an improv comedy show, a hike up Table Mountain, and a collaboration between artists Conrad Hicks and Matlali Matabane. CBD The Ex-Files - A Dating Disaster Improv Show Friday, 20 March, 8pm - 9:30pm Venue: The Outlore Base, 80 Hout Str Cost: From R80, bookings via Quicket Ghosting. Breadcrumbing. Situationships. We’ve all been there. It’s no wonder audiences can’t get enough of The Ex Files, an improv show that does a deep dive into the archives of our worst dating decisions. Because if you’re going to be fizzed, at least you can laugh about it. Instagram: theimprovcartThe Ex-Files - A Dating Disaster Improv Show on at The Outlore Base Last Night of the Proms Saturday, 21 March and Sunday, 22 March, 6pm and 5pm Venue: Cape Town City Hall, Darling St Cost: From R275, bookings via Computicket Beloved charity concert Last Night of the Proms returns to Cape Town City Hall. Thi
Out and About in Cape Town: Things to do this weekend

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

We’re almost a third into 2026. Imagine that! By now, you would have paid off your festive debt. Your credit card’s sitting on a lovely balance, and the kids are settled in school. It’s time to chill. You deserve it. The Galileo Open Air Cinema is screening A Star Is Born at the V&A Waterfront’s Battery Park on Friday.  Too laidback? How about some drama and intrigue at the Artscape? Renowned choreographer David Nixon presents his much-anticipated ballet Dracula. The reimagining of Bram Stoker’s iconic novel will leave you breathless. Also, cover your neck; you never know what fangs lurk around dark corners. DON'T MISS: Best March events to plan around CBD Dracula Friday, 13 March to Sunday, 29 March, 2pm and 7pm Venue: Artscape, Theatre, Cape Town Foreshore Cost: R200 - R450, bookings via Web Tickets Choreographed by the celebrated David Nixon (CBE), Dracula is a darkly seductive, full-length show performed by the Cape Town City Ballet. Inspired by Bram Stoker’s titular character, Nixon’s retelling is heavily invested in its Gothic intensity and physically charged choreography. Photograph: Lindsey Appolis MagĂ© Live at The KAYA CafĂ© Saturday, 14 March, 7pm - 9:30pm Venue: KAYA CafĂ©, 35 Loop St Cost: From R100, bookings via Web Tickets Singer/songwriter MagĂ© uses her guitar, her harmonica, her tambourine (with her left foot), and the beat with her right foot to bring stories to life. But most probably her biggest issue is people mispronouncing her name. It’s MagĂ©, darlin