There may be a distinct chill in the air, but Cape Town’s CBD is still hot and happening. Come into town to enjoy what’s on offer.
CONCERTS/THEATRE/SHOWS
CANDLELIGHT CONCERTS
This series of multisensory musical experiences under the glow of candlelight continues into March. First up is a tribute to British rock band Coldplay at 18h30 on 7 March, followed by a Long Live the Rock Legends show featuring music from Queen at 18h30 on 14 March. Film buffs can look forward to two concerts featuring the music of film composer Hans Zimmer, known for his scores to Gladiator, The Lion King and Pirates of the Caribbean, at 20h30 on 7 and 14 March.
Where: District Six Homecoming Theatre, cnr of Buitenkant & Caledon Sts
When: 7 & 14 March
www.homecomingcentre.co.za/events
DRACULA
Cape Town City Ballet is staging its first production of Dracula, based on Bram Stoker’s classic horror novel. First performed in 1999 and choreographed by David Anthony Nixon – former artistic director of the BalletMet in Columbus, Ohio, USA – this dramatic, sensuous ballet is sure to thrill. The plot is centred on a battle between good and evil that unfolds following English lawyer Jonathan Harker’s ill-fated encounter with the vampire Count Dracula. (Note: no under-12s).
Where: Artscape, D.F. Malan St
When: 13-29 March
www.artscape.co.za/event/dracula/
PRETTY WOMAN – THE MUSICAL
The Broadway musical loosely based on the 1990 movie starring Julia Roberts and Richard Gere makes its South African debut with this production. Featuring music by Canadian rockstar Bryan Adams, the show revolves around the romance that develops between a wealthy businessman and the escort he hires for a week to accompany him to social functions. If you’re a fan of Mamma Mia, you’ll enjoy this high-energy show brimming with humour, romance and nostalgia. (Note: no under-13s).
Where: Artscape, D.F. Malan St
When: 19 March-19 April
www.artscape.co.za/event/pretty-woman-the-musical/
CAPE TOWN HIP-HOP FESTIVAL WITH NGQONDO QINA BOPHA
This music festival features various local artists, a workshop and performances of Ngqondo Qina Bopha, a hip-hop theatre piece that explores a man’s psychological turmoil after killing his lover. Trapped between his thoughts and emotions, Buntu’s internal conflict is portrayed though lyrics, movement and rhythm. The workshop offers emerging artists the opportunity to develop their skills, exchange ideas and receive mentorship (Note: no under-16s).
Where: Artscape, D.F. Malan St
When: 19-21 March
www.artscape.co.za/event/ngqondo-qina-bopha/
WEALTH LAB
Interested in building your brand and growing your business? Then Wealth Lab is the event for you, a discussion featuring experts sharing practical advice on how to scale your business idea from the ground up. Stephan Bredell, co-founder of coffee company Platō, and Andriana Cronjé, co-founder of activewear brand Burnt Studios, will be in conversation with Daniele Joubert, CPO of internet service provider Fibertime. The event is limited to 200 guests and will feature an open bar and New York-style bagels.
Where: Rooftop on Bree, 170 Bree St
When: 25 March
www.quicket.co.za/events/360949-wealth-lab/#/
SIFISO NENE – BECAUSE OF SUCCESS
Award-winning stand-up comedian Sifiso Nene brings his new one-man show to Cape Town. Nene is known for finding humour in everyday life and transforming ordinary stories into captivating narratives, earning him a reputation as a fresh and engaging voice on the local comedy scene. This show celebrates growth, struggle and what it means to laugh together. With his signature quick thinking and authentic delivery, Nene is sure to keep you entertained from start to finish. (Note: no under-16s).
Where: District Six Homecoming Theatre, cnr Buitenkant & Caledon Sts
When: 27-28 March 2026
www.homecomingcentre.co.za/events
KRISMIS VAN MAP JACOBS
First published in 1983 and set soon after the forced removals in District Six, this Afrikaans play by celebrated writer Adam Small tells the story of a feared gangster who’s been released from prison just before Christmas after spending seven years behind bars. When Map’s former community gets wind of the news, the question on everyone’s lips is: has he changed or is he still the same old Map?
Where: Artscape, D.F. Malan St
When: 9-24 April
www.artscape.co.za/event/krismis-van-map-jacobs-6/
EVITA OP 90: TEE, TALES & TROUENS
Satirist Pieter-Dirk Uys’ alter ego, socialite Evita Bezuidenhout, turns 90 this year so to celebrate the grand dame will sit down with journalist Mia Spies to look back at her colourful life, spilling the tea on the many celebs she’s known and the sometimes shocking moments she’s witnessed. Don’t miss Uys’ razor-sharp wit as he skewers the South African Establishment both past and present.
Where: Nasdak, Media24, 40 Heerengracht St
When: 1 May
www.webtickets.co.za/v2/event.aspx?itemid=1587770832
CARMEN
Cape Town Opera’s production of Carmen – a story of obsession, betrayal and jealousy – promises to be spectacular. Bizet’s unforgettable music drives this iconic, doomed love story set in Seville, Spain. The opera traces the passionate, ill-fated relationship between a naïve Spanish soldier, Don José, and the tempestuous, free-spirited gypsy woman Carmen, which ultimately ends in tragedy. This is one of the world’s most frequently performed operas. The stellar cast includes Nonhlanhla Yende as Carmen, Lukhanyo Moyake as Don José and Vuvu Mpofu as Micaëla, with the Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra conducted by Tim Murray providing a dramatic, vibrant backdrop. Don’t miss it!
Where: Artscape Opera House, D.F. Malan St
When: 20-31 May
www.capetownopera.co.za/carmen/
EXHIBITIONS/EVENTS
THE SEA AND US
Cape Town and its people are inextricably linked to the ocean, and The Sea and Us illustrates the many different facets of this connection. Come to meet the ocean’s creatures, from its smallest organisms to its giants, and see the museum’s vast two-centuries-old collections, complemented by traditional knowledge from coastal communities. You’ll be reminded of the importance of protecting our oceans and its habitats, reflect on ways to become a champion for the sea – and be inspired.
Where: Iziko South African Museum, 25 Queen Victoria St
When: Ongoing exhibition
www.iziko.org.za/exhibitions/the-sea-and-us/
COMIC CON CAPE TOWN
Get ready to geek out at the fourth annual celebration of all things pop culture and gaming! Modelled on the world-famous San Diego Comic Con, the Cape Town edition keeps getting bigger and better, catering for fans of pop culture in various mediums, from comic books to collectibles, art, and genres, from horror to sci-fi. A festival of self-expression, visitors can look forward to international guests, merch for every media franchise from Harry Potter to Marvel, exclusive comics, and thrilling gaming tournaments. Come dressed up as your favourite character and take part in cos-play competitions on the main stage. There’ll also be a food-truck village, chill zones and a pop culture hall. Book early to avoid disappointment.
Where: CTICC 2, cnr Heerengracht & Rua Bartholomeu Dias
When: 30 April – 3 May 2026
www.comicconafrica.co.za/ccct-home-page/
2026 ABSA RUN YOUR CITY SERIES CAPE TOWN 10K
Launched in 2015, the Absa Run Your City Series comprises five road races in five South African cities, including Cape Town. This is a “mass participation event” that encourages runners of all fitness levels to take part. The 10 km route is deliberately chosen to be flat and fast, highlighting iconic landmarks and scenic views while also featuring live music along the way. Participants will meet up at the Grand Parade, where they will be taken by MyCiTi buses to the start of the race at Woodbridge Island, Milnerton. The route then follows the coastline back to town before finishing in Lower Long St.
Where: Grand Parade
When: 10 May 2026
www.runyourcityseries.com/cape-town-10k/
SANLAM CAPE TOWN MARATHON
This year’s Sanlam Cape Town Marathon is set to take place in May, and elite athletes and social runners are gearing up to take part following the race’s cancellation last year. The event takes place over two days (23-24 May) with the Peace Runs (5 km and 10 km) and the Trail Runs on Saturday and the marathon on Sunday. The Sanlam Cape Town Marathon is Africa’s first Abbott World Marathon Majors Candidate. The 42,2 km route takes participants along a scenic loop showing off some of Cape Town’s most beautiful landmarks, including the Castle of Good Hope, the Cape Town City Hall and the Company’s Garden in town, before ending at Green Point Stadium. While you can no longer enter the main race (the 24 000 tickets have been sold), you can still have fun by being an enthusiastic spectator or attempt the Peace or Trail Runs.
Where: Fritz Sonnenberg Rd, Green Point, & Beach Rd, Mouille Point
When: 24 May 2026
www.capetownmarathon.com/
STEVEN COHEN: LONG LIFE
This is a major retrospective of provocative South African artist Steven Cohen’s work spanning 40 years. Known for his fearless performance art that frequently pushes boundaries, the exhibition gathers installations, performance documentation, objects, artefacts, artworks, films and photos from Cohen’s career which explores themes of sexuality, spirituality, race and freedom. The exhibition is curated by Dr Anthea Buys, postdoctoral research fellow with the SARChI Chair in Art and Visual Culture at the University of Johannesburg, and will be complemented by artist-led workshops, guided tours and discussions. Where: Iziko South African National Gallery, Government Ave
When: Until 30 June 2026
www.iziko.org.za/news/steven-cohen-long-life/
DECOREX
This is one of Africa’s leading decor and design platforms showcasing more than 250 of the most dynamic and creative companies on the continent. Decorex is an opportunity for industry professionals and design enthusiasts to explore the latest trends and innovations in the world of interior design and decoration. The theme for this year is The Soft Life, a design movement that focuses on comfort and joy in a world of overwork, overstimulation and technology fatigue. Highlights include exciting collaborations, talks by international experts and technology designed to enhance your experience.
Where: CTICC 1, 1 Lower Long St
When: 25-28 June
www.decorex.co.za/cape-town/en-gb.html
FESTIVALS
CAPE TOWN INTERNATIONAL JAZZ FESTIVAL
Jazz in all its glory returns to the Cape Town CBD in the form of the 23rd Cape Town International Jazz Festival. With an exciting line-up of international and South African artists, including British music sensation Jacob Collier and pianist and composer Nduduzo Makhathini, festival goers are in for a treat. Expect a range of jazz and jazz-inspired music at this iconic Cape Town musical event.
Where: Cape Town International Convention Centre, 1 Lower Long St
When: 27-28 March
www.capetownjazzfest.com/
SUIDOOSTERFEES
This arts festival is named after Cape Town’s southeastern wind, which “serves as a metaphor to symbolise healing and reconciliation”, the organisation says. The festival celebrates life in Cape Town with the Afrikaans language at its core. This year the programme. includes theatre performance, cooking demonstrations, visual art and panel discussions. One highlight is a tribute to late playwright Adam Small, which takes the form of four 30-minute plays by different writers who were inspired by a quote of them from Small’s work.
Where: Artscape, D.F. Malan St
When: 29 April – 3 May
www.suidoosterfees.com/
REGULAR EVENTS
After Shift Fridays
Every Friday
Just Shift Café, a coffee shop and bakery by day and bar by night, is an extension of Just Shift marketing agency where they host curated themed events throughout the week. On Fridays from 17h00 it’s After Shift Fridays, a way to unwind after the week complete with cocktails, live music by DJs and happy hour from 17h00-20h00 on selected cocktails and beers. Come dance, sip and relax after a hectic week.
Where: Just Shift Café, 54 Shortmarket St
When: 17h00-00h00
Cost: Free
www.instagram.com/justshiftcafe/
Knit & Natter Group
First Sunday of the month
Enthusiastic about knitting and crocheting? Join the members of the Knit & Natter Group, who meet on the first Sunday of every month to share their stories and love for their craft. Women from all walks of life are invited to join and bring yarn and needles, ideas, current projects – and snacks.
Where: Artscape Theatre Centre (Marble Foyer), D.F. Malan St
When: 15h00-17h00
Cost: Free
www.artscape.co.za
Cape Town Craft Club
Twice a month, and special pop-up events
This craft circle, founded by a textile artist and teacher specialising in sewing, embroidery, weaving and crochet, aims to unite creative people with a mutual love of making things in a laid-back, fun space. Everyone is welcome, from seasoned makers to those who haven’t made a thing since childhood. Bring whatever you’re working on and join the circle.
Where: Various venues across Cape Town
When: Check the website for details on upcoming events
www.capetowncraftclub.com/
Sunday Jazz Jam
Every Sunday
Wrap up your weekend with an evening of live jazz, improvisation, good company and fine wine at Openwine’s weekly Sunday Jazz Jam. The vibe is warm and vibrant – get ready to soak in the rhythm.
Where: Openwine, 72 Wale St
When: 17h00
Cost: No cover charge
www.instagram.com/p/DFPhBSaMnDC/
East City Sessions
Every Thursday
Harringtons Cocktail Lounge offers a changing line-up of established jazz acts and up-and-coming experimental acts on Thursday nights, so join the party. While entry is free until 22h00, it’s a good idea to book via bookings@harringtonstreet.co.za.
Where: Harringtons Cocktail Lounge, 61B Harrington St
When: 19h00
Cost: Free until 10pm; R50 thereafter
www.instagram.com/eastcitysessions/
Songwriters’ Showcase at The House of Machines
Every Tuesday
This no-frills event has been taking place for seven years at The House of Machines, nicknamed THoM – a blend of bar, men’s apparel store, motorbike shop and café. Though called “Songwriters’ Showcase”, the event is open to stand-up comedians who are also looking for an opportunity to show off their talents. Even poets have been known to try out their spoken-word pieces.
Where: The House of Machines, 84 Shortmarket St
When: 20h00
Cost: Free
www.thehouseofmachines.com/live-music/list/
Sky-Hi Ride
Ongoing
Adrenaline junkies can experience a bird’s-eye view and massive thrill on the Sky-Hi Ride from the 28th floor of the Hotel Sky, 146 m above the city. Weather permitting, the ride is open to hotel guests and visitors, and you can purchase a ride or observer ticket. The breathtaking drop reaches a free-fall speed of up to 100 km per hour.
Where: Hotel Sky, 9 Lower Long St
When: 12h00-20h00 (Tuesday to Sunday)
Cost: R200 per person via Webtickets
www.sky-hiride.capetown/
Free CBD Walking Tours
Ongoing
If you’re keen to have a fun time exploring the CBD, take in some history and culture, and meet nice people, join a free daily walking tour. Organisers are keen to make Cape Town walkable for everyone and the guides are knowledgeable and ready to entertain and inform. Options include a Historic City and Apartheid to Freedom Tour, Apartheid to Freedom and Bo-Kaap Tour, and the Bo-Kaap and Historic City Tour. For more information, email info@freewalkingtourscapetown.co.za.
Where: Twice a day departing outside Motherland Coffee, St Georges Mall
When: 11h00 & 16h20: Historic City Tour; 11h00 & 14h00: Apartheid to Freedom Tour
Cost: Free
www.freewalkingtourscapetown.co.za/
Third House Poetry
Last Tuesday of the month
Third House is a community and open-mic poetry event where both novice and established poets are supported and inspired, invited to share their work, exercise their creative voice and network with other writers and creatives.
Where: Selective Live, 189 Buitengracht St
When: 19h30
Cost: R50 at the door
www.instagram.com/thirdhousepoetry/
Live jazz at The Athletic Club & Social
Wednesdays to Saturdays
The Athletic Club & Social is a cool venue with food, cocktails and splendid views from its balcony. It also has a great line-up of regular live-music performances in the basement bar, from Cape Town and African jazz to folk music, soul and other genres.
Where: The Athletic Club & Social, 35 Buitengracht St
When: 21h30
www.quicket.co.za/organisers/34189-the-athletic-club-social
The Blue Room at Grub & Vine
Tuesday to Saturday
The intimate Blue Room live music lounge at the Grub & Vine hosts top local and international talent, as well as emerging artists, covering a wide range of genres. Guests can also enjoy delicious food, wine and cocktails during shows, which range from soulful melodies and acoustic sets to electrifying riffs. It’s a good idea to book.
Where: Grub & Vine, 103 Bree St
When: 19h00-10h30
Cost: Cover charge of R200 per person (may differ for some artists)
www.theblueroomza.com/home/
Storytime for children, the Book Lounge
Every Saturday
On Saturday mornings, a Book Lounge staff member reads two or three picture books, followed by a fun activity. These events are suitable for three- to eight-year-olds. Sometimes there are also book launches or special story times.
Where: Book Lounge, 71 Roeland St
When: 11h00
Cost: Free
www.booklounge.co.za
First Thursdays
First Thursday of every month
Where: Cape Town CBD, including inside galleries and restaurants
When: 17h00 till late
Cost: Free
www.first-thursdays.co.za
IMAGES: Comic Con Cape Town, Cape Town Marathon, Artscape, Decorex, Cape Town International Jazz Festival