The beauty of autumn is here, with winter knocking at its door. Beat the chill in town, where there is a lot on offer.
CONCERTS/THEATRE/SHOWS
CARMEN
Cape Town Opera’s production of Bizet’s 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. Don’t miss it!
Where: Artscape Opera House, D.F. Malan St
When: 20-31 May 2026
www.capetownopera.co.za/carmen/
ORPHEUS IN THE UNDERWORLD
Wit, glamour and charm abound in Cape Town City Ballet’s production of Orpheus in the Underworld. Inspired by Jacques Offenbach’s comic operetta, this production is choreographed by Veronica Paeper with music arranged by Michael Tuffin and original designs by Peter Cazalet. Flapper girls, henchmen, can-can dancers are the order of the day in what has been described as a riotous romp as Eurydice runs off with Pluto much to her husband Orpheus’s delight. But then the gods start meddling and hilarity ensues. It’s timeless, a crowd-pleaser and unforgettable fun.
Where: Artscape, D.F. Malan St
When: 11-21 June 2026
https://www.artscape.co.za/event/event-name-orpheus-in-the-underworld/
ARTSCAPE YOUTH JAZZ SERIES
Experience the exceptional talent of the province’s young jazz musicians at this event, formerly the Youth Jazz Festival. One of Artscape’s key youth programmes, it is designed to nurture promising talent through mentorship and masterclasses and create a platform for emerging artists as they strive for musical excellence. Soloists will showcase their skills on Friday 12 June and the school jazz bands will entertain the audience on Saturday 13 June.
Where: Artscape, D.F. Malan St
When: 12-13 June
https://www.artscape.co.za/event/artscape-youth-jazz-series-2026/
ALFRED ADRIAAN
If you’re in need of a good laugh, catch stand-up comedian Alfred Adriaan’s new show, “Positive Strokes”, at The District Six Homecoming Centre. His comedy has been described as highly relatable and he has a reputation as a storyteller of note, captivating local and international audiences. In fact, “Positive Strokes” is fresh from a run in Australia and New Zealand.
Where: District Six Star Theatre, cnr Buitenkant & Caledon Sts
When: 13-14 May 2026
https://www.homecomingcentre.co.za/events
BLING!
This dazzling production’s storyline centres on the famous Cullinan Diamond which is used to highlight our journey towards democracy. The diamond, the largest rough diamond ever found, was discovered at Premier No. 2 mine in Cullinan in January 1905. It weighed 3 106 carats and was named after Thomas Cullinan, the owner of the mine. It was put up for sale but remained unsold for two years. In 1907, it was bought by the then Transvaal government and Prime Minister Louis Botha presented it to Britain’s Edward VII. It was then cut into several stones of various cuts and sizes. The two largest stones, namely the Great Star of Africa and the Second Star of Africa, are the biggest cut clear-diamonds in the world. Both remain in the United Kingdom and are part of the Crown Jewels – despite calls for their return to South Africa. In this production, the diamond is personified in the character of Phatsima Khullinan, played by Buhle Ngaba, with the aim of raising awareness of our mineral history.
Where: District Six Avalon Auditorium, cnr Buitenkant & Caledon Sts
When: 15-20 May 2026
https://www.homecomingcentre.co.za/events
EXHIBITIONS/EVENTS
2026 ABSA RUN YOUR CITY CAPE TOWN 10K
One of the city’s iconic road races, the Absa RUN YOUR CITY CAPE TOWN 10K, takes place on Mother's Day, and for the first time in its 11-year history, the face will finish on the Grand Parade with Table Mountain as its backdrop. The race starts in Milnerton on Woodbridge Island, with runners then making their way through Paarden Island and into the city centre via the N1 and FW de Klerk Blvd. Once in town, the route diverts at the Coen Steytler Roundabout into Lower Long St via Walter Sisulu Ave. Runners will head up Long St, turn into Wale St and down Adderley St, before turning onto Darling St for a finish in front of the City Hall.
Where: Woodbridge Island, Milnerton (start); Grand Parade (finish)
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/
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/
IZIKO PLANETARIUM & DIGITAL DOME
Catch immersive 360-degree, 3D audio-visual journeys through space and science at the Planetarium. They are perfect for young and old minds. Now, “SEEING! A Photon’s Journey Across Space and Mind” is showing. Check the website for the types of shows and times.
Where: 25 Victoria St
When: Tuesday to Sunday
https://www.iziko.org.za/shows/seeing/
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
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/
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/
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 open-mic event is open to performing artists and 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/
Diptyque Tea Experience
If you’re searching for the ultimate calming and relaxing experience, the elegant Labotessa Luxury Boutique Hotel’s beautiful Diptyque Boutique serves delicious artisanal sweet treats such as delicate finger sandwiches, dainty scones and macarons, luxurious teas and bubbles. Book ahead to enjoy this indulgent experience, enhanced by gorgeous scents.
Where: 5 Church Square
When: Daily, 08h00-20h00
www.labotessa.com/boutique/
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: Labotessa, House of Machines, Cape Craft Club, Decorex, ABSA Run Your City Cape Town 10km