What's on in Cape Town

What's on in Cape Town The Quick Reference Guide to the Best Events & Experiences in Cape Town

Sink into something saucy and experience world-class adult entertainment Mavericks Cape Town, one of the city’s most ico...
29/05/2026

Sink into something saucy and experience world-class adult entertainment Mavericks Cape Town, one of the city’s most iconic after-dark destinations.

From steamy performances and late-night dining to DJs, cocktails and unforgettable party energy, Mavericks R***e Bar is perfect for a wild bachelor party, a night out with friends, or simply looking for somewhere that keeps the music, drinks and kitchen going long after midnight.

And this June, things get even more playful with the Naughty Alice party experience on Friday & Saturday, 5 & 6 June 2026. The party is a provocative late-night twist on Alice in Wonderland featuring mischievous bunnies, twisted tea parties and seductive surprises around every corner.

If you’re looking for a night out that combines entertainment, dining, drinks and nonstop atmosphere all under one roof, this is where the city comes alive after dark.

More details in the link below.
https://whatsonincapetown.com/mavericks-revue-bar/

OBS LATE NIGHT THRIFT - WINTER WARDROBE EDITION IS HERE!Observatory is once again stretching its after hours energy into...
29/05/2026

OBS LATE NIGHT THRIFT - WINTER WARDROBE EDITION IS HERE!
Observatory is once again stretching its after hours energy into something new. This first thursday, 4 June 2026, dig through the rails and find the layers, textures, and cosy staples that Obs’s thrift scene does so well.

From oversized knits and vintage coats to quirky one-off gems, Lower Main Road will be lined with thrift stores, pop-ups, music spots and creative spaces all staying open after hours. Think of it as Obs’s laidback answer to First Thursdays -community-driven, creative, and full of character.

Expect:
🔥 Massive thrift specials and vintage gems
🔥 Glühwein, pancakes and delicious eats
🔥 Drumming circles and open mic sessions
🔥 Vinyl browsing at Revolution Records
🔥 Goth, boho, Y2K, retro and everything in between

Whether you’re hunting for the perfect winter jacket, browsing with friends, or just soaking up Observatory’s unique after-dark atmosphere, this is the perfect midweek outing.

Click the link below for participating stores.
https://whatsonincapetown.com/late-night-thrift-in-observatory/

POWERFUL STORIES HIT THE SCREEN THIS JUNEBe inspired, entertained and educated by some of the world’s most thought-provo...
29/05/2026

POWERFUL STORIES HIT THE SCREEN THIS JUNE
Be inspired, entertained and educated by some of the world’s most thought-provoking documentaries as the Encounters South African International Documentary Festival kicks off next week from 4 to 14 June 2026.

As Africa’s premier documentary festival, Encounters shines a spotlight on urgent global and local issues, exploring themes like social justice, identity, apartheid’s legacy, rural poverty, and human resilience through the lens of visionary filmmakers.

This year’s programme features:
🎥 50+ local and international documentaries
🎥 African homecoming screenings including Tutu and The Eyes of Ghana
🎥 World premieres from South African filmmakers
🎥 Unique short film blocks exploring people, places and powerful ideas
🎥 Insightful panel discussions, filmmaker Q&As and industry masterclasses

Whether you’re a passionate film lover, aspiring filmmaker, or simply curious about the world around you, Encounters offers stories that challenge, inspire and stay with you long after the credits roll.

Screenings take place at L***a Theatre, V&A Waterfront Ster-Kinekor Theatres, berthamoviehouse and Bertha House.

Click the link below for tickets and the schedule.
https://whatsonincapetown.com/encounters-documentary-festival/

CAPE TOWN'S CBD COMES ALIVE THIS WEEKEND!The Mission for Inner City Cape Town is transforming the city centre into a vib...
29/05/2026

CAPE TOWN'S CBD COMES ALIVE THIS WEEKEND!
The Mission for Inner City Cape Town is transforming the city centre into a vibrant playground of food, music, art, culture and community - and everyone’s invited.

From Thibault Square to Bree Street, expect a weekend packed with public activations, local makers, heritage experiences, live performances and people-first spaces designed to reconnect Capetonians with the heart of the city ❤️

Highlights include:
🔥 StreetFeast with incredible local food vendors like Sticky Lips, Ishushu and Herenity
🔥 Live jazz from the Jason Marshall Quartet
🔥 Open Ateliers giving you behind-the-scenes access to Cape Town’s creatives, studios and galleries
🔥 Free heritage walking tours with Cameron Peters
🔥 Bree Street Sundays returns with car-free streets, outdoor dining, markets and eco-friendly urban gardening experiences

Whether you’re looking to explore hidden creative spaces, support local businesses, enjoy amazing food or simply soak up the atmosphere, this is the perfect excuse to get out and experience the Mother City differently.

More details in the link below
https://whatsonincapetown.com/cape-town-cbd-weekend/

ONE NIGHT. ONE STAGE. ENDLESS TALENTThe Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra's much-loved Variety Gala returns on Saturday, ...
29/05/2026

ONE NIGHT. ONE STAGE. ENDLESS TALENT
The Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra's much-loved Variety Gala returns on Saturday, 6 June 2026 at Artscape for an unforgettable evening where crossover hits, cinematic favourites, dance, opera, circus magic and classical masterpieces collide.

Expect powerhouse performances from local stars including Tarryn Lamb, Craig Lucas, Jimmy Nevis, Sasha-Lee Davids, Anna Davel, Amara Voices and many more - all backed by the full Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra under the baton of Brandon Phillips.

From the breathtaking artistry of Cape Town City Ballet, Jazzart Dance and Zip Zap Circus to the heartwarming performances by the Tygerberg Children's Choir and inspiring dancer Cassidy Bailey, this is a celebration of Cape Town’s incredible creative spirit.

Adding sparkle and sass to the evening is drag icon Tollie Parton, while Africa Melane hosts this spectacular showcase.

Don’t miss one of Cape Town’s most iconic nights of entertainment - where community, culture and world-class talent take centre stage.

Tickets in the link below
https://whatsonincapetown.com/cpo-variety-gala/

28/05/2026

⚡FLASH COMPETITION⚡ WIN TICKETS TO THE GOOD LIFE SHOW THIS WEEKEND
The Good Life Show Africa returns to Cape Town THIS WEEKEND, from 29 - 31 May 2026, showcasing innovative food, drink, wellness, and sustainable living experiences.

As Africa’s leading conscious living event, visitors can explore plant-based trends, discover exciting products, enjoy chef and mixology demos, and gain expert health and wellness insights.

We’re giving away tickets to the Good Life Show Africa, Valid for either Saturday (30 May) or Sunday (31 May) at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC).

TO ENTER:
⚡ Like and share this post
⚡ Make sure you're following Good Life Show Africa and What's on in Cape Town
⚡ Tag a friend and comment below and tell us what you’re most looking forward to seeing at the Show!
The competition closes TOMORROW, Friday 29 May 2026 at 10am. Winners will be contacted directly. Good Luck!

Click the link below for info about the show.
https://whatsonincapetown.com/the-good-life-show-cape-town/

BASCULE BAR IS YOUR PERFECT WINTER HIDEOUTTucked away in the Cape Grace Hotel, along the V&A Waterfront marina, this ico...
27/05/2026

BASCULE BAR IS YOUR PERFECT WINTER HIDEOUT
Tucked away in the Cape Grace Hotel, along the V&A Waterfront marina, this iconic whisky and cocktail bar is the kind of place where time slows down.

Sink into deep leather sofas, settle into softly lit corners, and let the winter chill fade away as conversations flow as easily as the cocktails. Whether you’re meeting old friends, celebrating something special, or simply in search of a warm, welcoming escape - Bascule Bar always feels just right.

With over 600 whiskies to explore, from rare Scottish single malts to bold American bourbons, every visit is a journey of discovery.

Enjoy guided tastings, expertly crafted cocktails, and live jazz sessions on weekends that bring Cape Town’s nightlife to life. And for something truly exceptional, don’t miss the Glenlivet Prestige Tasting THIS THURSDAY, 28 May 2028 - a luxury whisky experience featuring aged expressions including the 18, 21, and 25-year single malts.

Warm lighting, waterfront views, curated African art, and world-class service come together to create something unforgettable. This winter, don’t just go out — linger beautifully at Bascule.

Click the link below for more.
https://whatsonincapetown.com/bascule-bar-and-lounge/

OPERA'S FIERCEST FEMME FATALE NOW ON STAGECape Town Opera's Carmen is dazzling audiences with its powerful story, unforg...
27/05/2026

OPERA'S FIERCEST FEMME FATALE NOW ON STAGE
Cape Town Opera's Carmen is dazzling audiences with its powerful story, unforgettable music, set design and striking costumes.

Catch the last week of the show at the Artscape as Carmen pulses with some of opera’s most unforgettable music, building inexorably toward its devastating finale.

The cast bringing this iconic production to life features a standout lineup of South African opera talent. Nonhlanhla Yende (Carmen), Lukhanyo Moyake (Don José), Conroy Scott (Escamillo), and Brittany Smith (Frasquita) are all acclaimed performers with strong international and local careers, including major roles in leading operas, awards recognition, and performances on prominent global stages.

Don't miss your chance to see story of passion, freedom and destructive jealousy.

Click the link below for tickets.
https://whatsonincapetown.com/cape-town-opera-carmen/

27/05/2026

Zeitz MOCAA partners with the L***a Theatre for a a powerful monthly film experience celebrating African storytelling on the big screen.

This month's screening features Ancestral Visions of the Future by acclaimed Lesotho-born filmmaker Lemohang Jeremiah Mosese, showing at the L***a Theatre on Friday, 29 May 2026.

The film (trailer below) is visually poetic exploration of displacement, belonging, and the search for return, the film blends myth, memory, and autobiography into a deeply immersive cinematic journey.

After the screening, stay for a guided, open conversation led by Zeitz MOCAA’s curatorial team - a space to reflect, question, and connect through film.

Tickets cost R50, which supports the BMW Centre for Art Education, helping bring art education, workshops, and cultural experiences to children from underserved communities.

Click the link below to get your ticket.
https://whatsonincapetown.com/zeitz-mocaa/

EXCITING INDOOR WINTER ACTIVITIES IN CAPE TOWNTemperatures may drop but the fun doesn't have to stop! From creative esca...
27/05/2026

EXCITING INDOOR WINTER ACTIVITIES IN CAPE TOWN
Temperatures may drop but the fun doesn't have to stop! From creative escapes and adrenaline rushes to warm food spots, live shows, art, and indoor adventures, the Mother City is packed with ways to stay entertained, inspired, and toasty all season long.

If you're looking for a chilled day of exploration, visit the iconic Two Oceans Aquarium or be inspired by striking art at Norval Foundation and Zeitz MOCAA.

Get creative at Clay Café In The City, enjoy a classic movie night at L***a Theatre or warm up with a yummy hot chocolate tasting at Revved Up Cafe.

For a bit of thrilling entertainment challenge your friend at Extreme Go-Karting in Tyger Valley Centre, test your climbing skills at Total Ninja Black River Park or blow off some steam at RageRoom SA.

Wether you're a foodie, brainiac or explorer, there's something for everyone! Let us know your favourite winter activity in the comments.

Click the link below for the full list of indoor activities in Cape Town.
https://whatsonincapetown.com/winter-activities-in-cape-town/

YOU SAID YES, NOW FIND THE PERFECT DRESS!The FAB Bridal Expo is back with an exclusive Winter Wedding Sale THIS SATURDAY...
27/05/2026

YOU SAID YES, NOW FIND THE PERFECT DRESS!
The FAB Bridal Expo is back with an exclusive Winter Wedding Sale THIS SATURDAY, 30 May 2026 at D'Aria Winery - your ultimate one-stop destination for wedding gowns, matric farewell dresses, and formal wear at unbeatable prices.

Top designers are bringing their most sought-after pieces to the floor, with stunning gowns and outfits from favourites like Valencia Harrison and Robyn Roberts available at heavily discounted, limited-time prices.

Plus, explore everything you need for your big day, from photographers and venues to jewellers, all under one roof for an effortless planning experience.

Make a day of it and treat yourself at D’Aria’s restaurant with delicious tapas, sushi, mains, and a fine selection of wines.

Entry cost R50 per person. Click the link to get your tickets.
https://whatsonincapetown.com/fab-bridal-expo/

Address

Cape Town

Website

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when What's on in Cape Town posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Contact The Establishment

Send a message to What's on in Cape Town:

Shortcuts

Share

Category

//iconSize: [32, 32], //html: '' }) .bindTooltip(name, { //permanent: true, direction: 'bottom', //offset: L.point(12, 25), //opacity: 0.88, interactive: true }) .bindPopup(name); markersLayer.addLayer(marker); } function getMore() { if (gettingMore) { return; } gettingMore = true; var center = map.getCenter(); $.ajax({ url: "/vicinitysearch", data: { lat: center.lat, lng: center.lng, country: "SOUTH AFRICA" } }) .done(function(data) { var added = 0; data.forEach(function(loc) { if (!locationIds.includes(loc.id)) { var mapLoc = {id:loc.id,lat:loc.latitude,lng:loc.longitude,title:trunc20(loc.name),popupHtml:loc.popupHtml,urlPath:loc.urlPath,pictureUrl:loc.pictureUrl}; locations.push(mapLoc); locationIds.push(loc.id); map._addMarker(mapLoc); added++; } }); }) .always(function() { gettingMore = false; }); } map._clearMarkers = function() { markersLayer.clearLayers(); } }); }, 4000); });