Marchelle Abrahams

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. 

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.  

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

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.

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 Town🍷 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

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 excitement into the work week with Time Out Cape Town’s ultimate guide to First Thursdays, aka Fake Friday 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 RECOMMENDS: 😋 The best restaurants in Cape Town🏨 The best hotels 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 Cape Town📍 The best things to do in Cape Town

This weekend is all about smooth jazz and paying tribute to musical greats. The Artscape Theatre hosts The Echoes of the Cape Doctor: Remembering Robbie Jansen on Friday. Robbie Jansen fans will be pressed not to miss it. And then, Asara Wine Estate has something special in store as Rumours of Fleetwood Mac Tribute takes to the stage on Saturday. BTW, this is something I just discovered, but did you know Cape Town has an alpaca farm? Specifically Wellington. Quenti Alpaca Farm produces alpaca fleece onsite, and guess what? Friends of Iziko will be visiting them this weekend. Think of it as a school excursion, but after hours. CBD The Echoes of the Cape Doctor: Remembering Robbie Jansen Friday, 21 November, 7:30pm Venue: Artscape Theatre, Cape Town Cost: R180, bookings via Web Tickets When we think about local jazz icons, Robbie Jansen comes to mind. Born in Elsies River, the late Jansen never forgot his roots and paved the way for others after him. The Echoes of the Cape Doctor is a musical tribute honouring his legacy. Webtickets Summer Symphonies At The City Hall Saturday, 22 November, 7:30pm Venue: Cape Town City Hall, Darling St, Cape Town Cost: R190 - R450, bookings via Web Tickets Principal guest conductor Bernhard Gueller takes the reins in Gustav Mahler’s Symphony No.5. Known for its dramatic journey from mourning to triumph, the symphony features the famous opening funeral march. EyeEm Mobile GmbH Don Vino Saxy Vibes - The Festival Saturday, 22 November, 3pm

Greetings in the name of Tyla and the Springboks flying the Mzansi flag. Not Mariah, though. I rebuke you and all things Sephora/Christmas-related. That’s a conversation for another time. On another note, this weekend is jam-packed with events catering to every taste. Mandisi Dyantyis is introducing fans to his new album at the District Six Homecoming Centre. That should be something to look forward to.  Another weekend, another Christmas market. This time it’s the TygerValley Festive Market. One of my personal favourites because there’s such a wide selection of handcrafted goods to choose from, you’re bound to find that one special gift. Oh, and the Gipsy Kings will be performing live at De Grendel Wine Estate. It’s about time the north gets some action. CBD Mandisi Dyantyis Intlambululo Album Launch Friday, 14 November to Sunday, 16 November, 8pm and 6pm Venue: The Star Theatre, District Six Homecoming Centre, Cape Town Cost: R325 to R500, bookings via Web Tickets Afro-soul-jazz artist Mandisi Dyantyis brings his unique sound to the Star Theatre with his seven-piece band. The intimate show will introduce Dyantyis fans to his new album, Intlambululo. The cherry on the cake? Most of the songs have never been performed in front of a live audience before. So you get first dibs. Facebook: Mandisi Dyantyis Fantasia Ft Tuneraider, Ethereal  Saturday, 15 November, 8pm - 4am Venue: Botanik, 54 Queen Victoria St, Cape Town Cost: From R250, bookings via Quicket The first chapter

Celebrated artist Irma Stern made headlines for two distinct reasons last week. Firstly, her 1946 portrait titled ‘Malay’ (Black Headdress) was sold for R21.7 million at a Strauss & Co. auction.  Pioneering modernist expressionist painting in South Africa, Stern was considered one of the country’s most valuable artists. The sale of the rare artwork sets a new African record for a Stern portrait of a female sitter. View this post on Instagram A post shared by YourLuxury Africa (@yourluxury_africa) But as the art world celebrated the rousing legacy of the North-West born doyen, the museum founded in her honour announced its closure on Friday, 31 October 2025.  “For 56 years, the museum has been a cherished cultural landmark, welcoming generations of members of the UCT community as well as local and international visitors from around the world to experience the vibrant artistry of one of South Africa’s most celebrated painters.  “Now, in the spirit of Irma Stern’s own adventurous nature, the collection will be embarking on a new journey,” said an official statement. A vibrant and inclusive space on Cape Town’s art scene, the Irma Stern Museum was Stern’s former home and studio.  Jointly managed and operated by the University of Cape Town (UCT) and the Irma Stern Trust, the museum housed the ‘Irma Stern Trust Collection’, an eclectic assortment of artefacts and furniture she collected over the years.  That collaboration now seems to be in question as bot

If you haven’t noticed by now, it’s beginning to feel a lot like Christmas. Shops are blasting Boney M on repeat, and Michael Bublé is planning his next holiday, compliments of the millions of Spotify streams. Yep, the Mother City is slowly gearing up to welcome tourists with a local festive flourish. Soon, we’ll be knee-deep in tinsel and those fancy crackers that went to private school (Yes, Woolies, we’re looking at you). And you know the second Miss Mariah Carey sings, “It’s time!” the festive season has officially begun. While waiting for Mariah’s whale song, you can indulge in a rusk and cookie tasting at Tannie Evita’s or start your Christmas gift shopping at the Baxter Theatre’s Gift Fair. CBD Confections x Collections Thursday 6 November to Saturday 8 November Venue: Mount Nelson Hotel, Gardens, Cape Town Cost: R995, bookings via Dineplan CONFECTIONS x COLLECTIONS is an annual event spotlighting slow African fashion. Held on the grounds of Mount Nelson, a Belmond Hotel, and curated by sustainability-focused platform, Twyg, the show embraces contemporary African luxury. Described as a bespoke culinary experience, CxC reimagines the hotel’s iconic Afternoon Tea. Photograph: Mount Nelson, a Belmond Hotel Swing With The King Friday, 7 November, 7:30pm Venue: Artscape, Opera House, Cape Town Cost: R250, bookings via Web Tickets A jazz concert with a gospel twist, Swing With The King brings big band fever, Cape Ghoema, and orchestral arrangements to the Artscape stag

Spooky season is here, and while I’m not a fan of Halloween, the kids love it. From playing dress-up to fright night-inspired events, Cape Town is pulling out all the stops. There are ample things to keep the little ones entertained. And when the sun goes down, that’s when the real party begins, exclusively for adults only. Not your vibe? The Red Bull Flugtag is sure to evoke chills of another kind. When homemade flying crafts and epic fails are involved, you know you’re going to have yourself a good time. DON'T MISS: YoungstaCPT to launch Reebok sneaker collab at Canal Walk! CBD Horrorfest Friday, 31 October Venue: Labia Theatre, 68 Orange St, Gardens, Cape Town Cost: From R120 - R750, bookings via Quicket Running at the Labia until November 9, Horrorfest is not for the faint-hearted. And yet, thanks to its cult following, the festival celebrates 21 years of existence this year. Besides the horror element, the event features classic movies and short films. The goody is the Rocky Horror Picture Show 50th anniversary audience participation screening. Labia TheatreGet a ghoulish fright with the South African Horrorfest at Cape Town’s only independent cinema. Cape Town Jazz Greats Homecoming Series Friday, 31 October, 8pm - 10pm Venue: 226 Homecoming Centre, 15 M59, District Six, Cape Town Cost: From R150, bookings via Quicket The Cape Town Jazz Greats Homecoming series is all that jazz. For those who can’t stomach the thought of existential dread when Halloween comes arou

It’s that time of the year when the wind plays havoc with our hair, feelings, and no gazebo is left unattended. That’s why October brings with it the Cape Town International Kite Festival. This year, the annual event moves from Zandvlei to Ottery. More space. More fun.  David Kramer’s Orpheus McAdo makes a welcome return to the Arscape. Based on the true story of the Virginia Jubilee Concert Company, it’s a history lesson reimagined as a musical. CBD Thando Zide Presents Isineke Friday, 24 October, 7pm to midnight Venue: YoungBlood Gallery, 72 Bree Street. Cape Town Cost: From R350, bookings via Quicket Music artist Thando Zide returns to Cape Town with her three-city tour, Isineke (Patience). Using the medium of song to tell stories that evoke the strongest emotions, Zide is not afraid to explore uncomfortable themes of betrayal and anger. Join her for an unforgettable, intimate performance at YoungBlood Gallery. Instagram: youngblood_ct Thursday Rendezvous Saturday, 25 October, 4pm Venue: 226 Long Street, Cape Town Cost: R100 - R150, bookings via Web Tickets Yes, Thursday Rendezvous is on a Saturday. No, it’s not a spelling mistake. I can, however, confirm that the high-energy music event celebrates Afrobeat and House music. So if this is your vibe, get down to Long Street on Saturday night.  Photograph: semenovp Orpheus McAdoo Sunday, 26 October, 2pm Venue: Artscape Theatre, Cape Town Cost: R200 - R550, bookings via Web Tickets A musical like no other, Orpheus Mc

This weekend is an eclectic mix of ballet, techno, and an adventure festival specially for kids. And because we’re nearing the end of the month Salticrax, we’ve thrown in a few free activities for good measure.  Don’t miss Flavours of India at Maker’s Landing; just in time for Diwali. Oh, and there’s Mother of Comedy, a look at social ills like GBV and mental health through the lens of humour. To end off the weekend, go salsa dancing at Mojo Market or listen to the nostalgia sounds of Dozi live at Kapstadt Brauhaus. ALSO READ: The best summer festivals in and around Cape Town CBD Coppélia Friday, 17 October, 7pm Venue: Artscape, Opera House, Cape Town Cost: R200 - R550, bookings via Web Tickets A beautiful introduction to ballet for the little ones, Coppélia is an endearing love story that unfolds in a fairytale world where anything is possible. Centring on three main characters, Franz, his fiancée Swanilda, and the doll maker, Dr Coppelius, the Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra brings the retelling of this classic tale to life on stage. Webtickets Sinful III Saturday, 18 October, 9pm - 2am Venue: Healingone, Paarl Island, Cape Town Cost: From R300, bookings via Quicket The marketing for Sinfull III is quite on-brand. “Seven DJs - Seven Deadly Sins - One Night to Live Your Wildest Desires” is more than enough to hook curious minds. A precursor to Halloween, the party is punted as Cape Town’s premier techno club event where inclusivity, sex positivity and radical self-ex

Just when you thought it was safe to breathe again, you find yourself rushing to get the little ones ready for the last school term. The bright side is that the end of the school holidays spells the start of the festive season. Yes, soon we’ll be jingle bell rocking our way into the Christmas spirit. In the meantime, this weekend is popping. The Cape Town Club is serving the tea on The Big Tea Dance, and Stellies plays host to its annual woordfees. Oh yes, and if you’re in the mood for a party, Woodstock Hub is bringing it with a night of all things Beyoncé. CBD Ladysmith Black Mambazo Live in Concert Friday, 10 October, 7pm Venue: Artscape, Opera House, Cape Town Cost: R250, bookings via Web Tickets Tyla could never! Grammy-winning group Ladysmith Black Mambazo brings their powerful isicathamiya music back to the Artscape stage. Fans can look forward to beloved classics like The Lion Sleeps Tonight and fresh new tunes. Instagram: Ladysmith Black Mambazo 60+ The Big Tea Dance Sunday, 12 October, 3pm - 9pm Venue: Mara Lounge, 18 Queen Victoria St, Cape Town Cost: From R 130, bookings via Quicket Ever heard of The Big Tea Dance? Neither have I, but I’ll admit I’m curious. Billed as the Cape Town Club’s first Tea Dance, it’s all about an afternoon of drinks and catchy tunes. I was told to watch out for surprise performances and even an occasional line dance. So, grab your partner, do-si-do. Facebook: The Cape Town Club ATLANTIC SEABOARD  CTL Queer Family Picnic S

Get ready to throw your name and your dignity away because it’s that time of the year again. Yes, I’m talking about Rocking the Daisies. Bring along your besties, and no serious relationships allowed. Remember, what happens at Daisies, stays at Daisies! Something else to look forward to is the inaugural edition of Open Studios Fish Hoek & Clovelly. Eighteen artists will open their studios to the public. I’m excited. Are you excited? CBD Ntsika presents: A place called Ngoma Friday, 3 October, 6pm Venue: Homecoming Centre, M59, District Six, Cape Town Cost: R250 - R1200, bookings via Web Tickets Ntsika Fana Ngxanga may be part of music group The Soil, but when he’s on his ace, to his fans, he’s simply called Ntsika. Making his return to the stage in Ntsika Presents: A Place Called Ngoma, the critically acclaimed muso pays tribute to his connection with his ancestors. Instagram: Ntsika Fana Ngxanga Duet Endowment Trust Gala Saturday, 4 October, 6pm Venue: Artscape Theatre, Cape Town Cost: R250 - R950, bookings via Web Tickets Showcasing South Africa’s finest talent, the 2025 Duet Endowment Trust’s Gala Concert is headlined by internationally acclaimed soprano Golda Schultz and baritone Jacques Imbrailo, alongside Cape Town Opera’s House soloists, Judith Nielson Young Artists. Adamina / Flickr ATLANTIC SEABOARD  Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat Saturday, 4 October, 2pm, 5pm and 8pm Venue: Theatre On The Bay, Camps Bay Cost: R275 - R525, bookings via Web Tick