As the sun begins to shine longer and the flowers start to bloom, take your pick from a wide variety of incredible things to do this month of September, to usher in the new season in style! From music performances and dance showcases to unique retreats and festivals, there’s something for everyone this month.
This article is updated throughout the month, so make sure to come back throughout September to see what’s unfolding.
New at Norval Foundation: Umkhangu/Birthmark by Sthenjwa Luthuli
Norval Foundation has announced the display of the exhibition Umkhangu/Birthmark, featuring the work of South African artist Sthenjwa Luthuli, in his first institutional solo exhibition. The exhibition is set to open on 11 September 2025, and explores themes of memory, cultural identity, and African spiritualism through meticulous printmaking.
The title of the exhibition, Umkhangu – translated from isiZulu as “birthmark” – evokes both physical and metaphysical meanings. Within African cosmologies, a birthmark may signal ancestral presence, a spiritual guide, or a unique destiny. Luthuli reclaims this symbolism as a powerful metaphor for belonging, legacy, and inner transformation.
Sthenjwa Luthuli is hosting a public walkabout of the exhibition on 13 September at 11am, for those that wish to fully grasp the themes and inspirations behind the work.
When: Running from 11 September 2025 – 10 January 2026 | Wed to Sat 10am to 5pm, Sun 10am to 4pm | Closed on Mon & Tues
Where: Norval Foundation, 4 Steenberg Road, Tokai, Cape Town
The Details of Umkhangu/Birthmark
Misty Cliffs at Cafe Roux
Born from the eclectic synergy of early 2020, The Misty Cliffs trio – Nick Turner, Nick Catto, and Matt Catto – are veterans of the vibrant Cape Town music landscape, renowned for their impeccable synergy.
The evening promises a showcase of the trio’s intricate artistry, reflective of life’s tumultuous yet beautiful nature. Audiences can experience a fusion of soul-stirring melodies and thought-provoking lyrics, all while being immersed in the band’s hallmark – expressive guitar melodies, rhythmic bass grooves, and deep-pocket drumming.
Cost: R150. Tickets available on Quicket.
When: 28 September 2025 | 6pm – 9.30pm
Where: Cafe Roux, Noordhoek Village, Chapmans Peak Dr, Noordhoek
After Dark Concert Series: Dirty Skirts & Wren Hinds [SOLD OUT]
The After Dark concert series takes place in the otherworldly, watery setting of the Two Oceans Aquarium, lending a blue glow to the atmosphere and welcoming some unlikely audience members.
The Dirty Skirts are an indie rock band from Cape Town who recorded and toured between 2004 and 2012. Their career highlights include being nominated for Best Rock Album SAMA for their album ‘Daddy Don’t Disco’ (2008), and winning Best Alternative Album SAMA (2011) for their album ‘Lost in the Fall’.
Wren Hinds delivers a lush, acoustically driven production which overlaps the boundaries of alternative folk, country, and world music while staying true to his own style as an original singer-songwriter. The harmonic resonance of voice, guitar and harmonica together with a reflective and honest lyrical sensibility, communicates deep profundity bringing meaning and nourishment to an art that has been somewhat neglected in recent times.
Cost: R395. Tickets available here.
When: 23 September 2025 | 6.30pm
Where: Two Ocean’s Aquarium, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town
The Cardinal
The Outlore has unveiled The Cardinal — a daring new immersive theatre experience where audiences are not just spectators, but members of a shadowy world of power, desire, and secrets.
Taking place at The Outlore Base, the city’s new home for underground and fringe experiences, The Cardinal invites guests to step inside a world of red shadows, whispered deals, and intoxicating rituals. Each audience member’s choices determine how far into the story they will go… and what they’ll discover.
Cost: From R250. Tickets available on Quicket.
When: 21 August – 20 September 2025 | Thursday – Saturday at 8pm
Where: The Outlore Base, 80 Hout St, Cape Town City Centre
Cape Town Baroque Festival
The annual Cape Town Baroque Festival celebrates the early periods of music, and the 2025 edition is no different. This year’s theme is ‘The Miniature and the Monumental’, featuring various programmes that juxtapose works for large-scale forces with smaller, and often domestic, genres, while exploring the spaces in between.
The exciting line-up of ensembles includes the Cape Town Baroque Orchestra, the Cape Town Baroque Trio, Lutesong Consort, and True Voices. The festival also welcome two international visiting baroque specialists: Erik Bosgraaf (recorder and chalumeau) from the Netherlands and Zefira Valova (baroque violin) from Bulgaria.
This year, there is a strong focus on the expressive music of Georg Philipp Telemann (1681– 1767), with both a small-scale duo programme and a large-scale orchestral programme dedicated to his output.
Cost: R800 (full festival pass) | R200 – R300 per event. Tickets available on Quicket.
When: 20 – 27 September 2025
Where: St Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, De Waterkant, Cape Town | Rust en Vreugd (Iziko Museum), 78 Buitenkant Street, Cape Town | UCT Irma Stern Museum, Rosebank
Soul Expression Retreat at Temenos
Join Celeste du Toit for a nurturing and transformational retreat, which will guide you to release outdated patterns, unresolved trauma, and limiting beliefs — making space for clarity, joy, and a renewed sense of purpose. Through the timeless wisdom of the Greek Goddess Archetypes, you’ll uncover new parts of yourself and awaken to your soul’s highest calling.
Escape to Temenos, a sanctuary of serenity and simplicity, where warm hospitality invites you to reconnect with your body, mind, and heart. Discover tranquil gardens and private spaces designed to inspire relaxation and renewal.
Cost: R6850pp | R4000 (non-residential option). Enquire via email ([email protected])
When: 25 – 28 September 2025
Where: Temenos Retreat, Cnr Of Bree And Voortrekker Streets, McGregor
Late Night Barcade: Ozzy Osbourne Tribute
Enjoy a night of pure rock ’n roll at Barcadia to honour the legendary Ozzy Osbourne! Expect all your favourite Black Sabbath classics along with timeless solo hits from the Prince of Darkness himself.
Cape Town’s own theatrical alt rock band MARENE are performing a wide range of Ozzy’s hits. Plus, some of Cape Town’s finest guest vocalists will be stepping up to bring the magic to life.
Cost: R100. Tickets available via Quicket.
When: 20 September 2025 | 6pm – 11pm
Where: Barcadia, 62 Hout St, Cape Town City Centre
Two Oceans Aquarium Trash Bash
The Trash Bash is an initiative dedicated to tackling plastic pollution and raising awareness about the harmful effects it has on marine ecosystems. By rolling up your sleeves and participating, you’re making a real difference for the environment while enjoying a morning at the beach.
Make sure to bring weather-appropriate clothing, a bucket or bag for colleting trash, and your desire to make a difference!
Cost: Free
When: Saturday, 20 September from 9 am to 11 am
Where: Sunrise Beach, Milnerton
Cape Town Opera: The Magic Flute
Cape Town Opera’s newest opera is specifically targeted to younger audiences, with a delightful adaptation of Mozart’s classic, The Magic Flute. With targeted performances for primary and high school students, as well as all-age performances, the show promises to be a fun way to introduce children to the magic of opera.
The Magic Flute is a fantastical opera that follows Prince Tamino on a quest to rescue Princess Pamina, facing trials of love, wisdom, and virtue. Guided by a magic flute and joined by the delightful bird-catcher Papageno, he uncovers a deeper journey toward enlightenment and harmony.
Cost: R80. Book tickets on Webtickets.
When: 16 – 20 September 2025 | 10am (primary school performance) | 1pm (high school performance)
Where: Joseph Stone Auditorium, Protea St & Klipfontein Rd, Athlone, Cape Town
Why Kids Will Love The Magic Flute
Meet the Makers at Grub & Vine
Grub & Vine’s beloved Meet the Makers series is back. This is more than just a wine pairing dinner – it’s a chance to meet the people behind the labels; the passionate winemakers who shape some of South Africa’s best wines. Each evening in the series features a different wine farm and their winemaker, paired with a specially crafted multi-course menu by Chef Matt Manning and his team.
Expect great conversation, exceptional food, and insights into the stories, philosophies and craftsmanship behind every bottle. From vineyard tales to cellar secrets, Meet the Makers is your backstage pass into the world behind each wine featured throughout the evening.
Various winemakers are featured at each event, keep an eye on the website to see who’s coming up.
Cost: TBC. Find out more on the website.
When: 16 September 2025 | 6.30pm
Where: Grub and Vine, 103 Bree St, Cape Town City Centre
Mendelssohn’s Elijah
The Philharmonia Choir of Cape Town and the Symphony Choir of Johannesburg are proud to present Mendelssohn’s Elijah. This marks the fifth collaborative concert for the two choirs, and the final oratorio work that Richard Cock will conduct as director of the Symphony Choir.
The exceptional line up of soloists joining the choirs are Andiswa Makana (soprano), Conroy Scott (bass), Minette du Toit-Pearce (alto), and Lukhanyo Moyake (tenor). Meanwhile the choirmasters Richard Cock and Richard Haigh are preparing the choirs for this exciting performance.
Cost: R275 – R400. Tickets available on Quicket.
When: 28 September 2025 | 3pm – 6pm
Where: Cape Town City Hall, Darling St, Cape Town
CPO Spring Symphonies
The Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra is back with their Spring Symphony concert series, to usher in the new season with some delightful pieces.
The 4 September concert sees Daniel Raiskin conduct Beethoven “Prometheus Overture”, Wieniawski “Violin Concerto No.1 in F sharp minor, Op.14” and Shostakovich “Symphony No.6 in B minor, Op.54”. The soloist for this concert is German violinist Tassilo Probst, who will be playing the Wieniawki piece.
The 11 September concert sees Martin Panteleev conduct De Falla “The Three Cornered Hat, Suite No. 2”, Rodrigo “Concierto de Aranjuez” and Tchaikovsky “Symphony No. 4 in F minor, Op. 36”. Spanish guitarist Alvaro Toscana, a specialist in modern music, will give his interpretation of the Concierto de Aranjuez by Rodrigo.
The 18 September concert sees Panteleev returns to conduct Dukas “The Sorcerer’s Apprentice”, Grant McLachlan “The Silence of the Day” (in its world premiere) and Berlioz “Symphonie Fantastique”. Baritone William Berger will perform “The Silence of the Day” in its debut, and The Cape Town Philharmonic Youth Wind Ensemble will open the concert with a curtainraiser with its conductor Charlene Verster.
Cost: R190 – R450
When: All concerts begin at 7.30pm
Where: Cape Town City Hall, Darling St, Cape Town
Moffie
Following its critically acclaimed London run, the compelling drama and hit one-man show Moffie returns home for its South African premiere.
Based on the novel by André Carl van der Merwe, the stage adaptation has been brought to life by a South African team, in a powerful sharing of this story about love, survival, and identity under apartheid.
Directed and produced by Greg Karvellas (Dear Evan Hansen; former Artistic Director of The Fugard Theatre), the book has been reimagined for the stage by award-winningz playwright Philip Rademeyer (Stinkhout; Niggies). Esteemed, award-winning actor David Viviers (The Tempest; Binnelanders) performs the role of Nicholas van der Swart, the closeted conscript whose harrowing journey lies at the heart of this tale.
Cost: R240pp. Tickets available on Webtickets.
When: 2 – 27 September 2025 | 7.30pm | Wednesday matinee at 3pm | Saturday matinee at 3.30pm
Where: Baxter Theatre, Main Rd, Rondebosch
Chicago: The Musical
Owing to popular demand, Chicago: The Musical is coming back to South African stages, and it’s even sexier than ever before.
The award-winning Broadway and West End musical is taking Cape Town by storm once again after receiving rave reviews and nightly standing ovations throughout all previous sold-out seasons in both the mother city and Johannesburg.
Chicago tells the story of a nightclub singer, a double-murderess, a smooth-talking lawyer and a cell block of sin, unfolding to show-stopping songs including ‘All that Jazz’, ‘Cell Block Tango’ and ‘Mister Cellophane’. Award-winning South African musical director, Kevin Kraak (The Lion King, Chicago, My Fair Lady) leads an 11-piece orchestra for the South African production.
Cost: From R200pp. Tickets available on Ticketmaster.
When: 27 August to 28 September 2025 | Tues to Fri at 7.30pm | Sat at 3pm and 7.30pm | Sun at 2pm and 6pm (5pm on 31 Aug)
Where: Artscape Theatre Centre, D.F. Malan St, Foreshore, Cape Town
Flavour of Our Roots Special at ROOI Grillroom
Each week in September in honour of Heritage Month, ROOI is unveiling one signature dish, available for that week only. All dishes celebrate South African tradition with bold flavour and refined flare. Celebrate Heritage Month and taste the stories that shaped our South African experiences, past and present.
When: 1 – 30 September 2025 | 6.30pm – 10pm
Where: ROOI, One & Only Cape Town, Dock Rd, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, Cape Town
All the Dishes in the Flavour of Our Roots Special
Marc Eugene Lottering
Comedy veteran, Marc Lottering presents his wildly successful new comedy special for multiple shows at the Baxter Theatre.
In his latest show, the comedian hilariously dissects ideas around family and origin by sharing his findings about his very colourful family tree. This critically acclaimed show has already enjoyed a sell-out season in Joburg and Cape Town, with many fans claiming that this is the best Lottering offering yet.
Lottering is one of South Africa’s top comedians, having written 20 one-man shows and three smash hit musicals. He has also been nominated for and received several prestigious theatre awards along the way, even being inducted into the Comics Choice Hall of Fame.
Cost: R180 – R220pp. Tickets available on Webtickets.
When: 23 September – 11 October 2025 | 7.30pm | Sat matinee at 4.30pm
Where: Baxter Theatre Centre, Main Rd, Rondebosch, Cape Town
Visit Clos Malverne
Clos Malverne Wine Estate offers guests an unforgettable wine estate experience, featuring award-winning wines, excellent food, luxury accommodation options, and relaxing spa facilities.
Clos Malverne is renowned for creating an unforgettable wine farm experience, where prize-winning wines, exceptional food, luxury accommodation, and an indulgent spa intertwine, to create a place where memories are made to last a lifetime. The wines are classic in style, handcrafted using the traditional basket press method. Made to pair beautifully with food, they embody both elegance and authenticity.
When: Farm: Mon-Fri, 9am – 5pm, and Sat-Sun, 12 noon – 3pm | Restaurant: Wed – Sun, 9am – 5pm
Where: Clos Malverne, Devon Valley Rd, Stellenbosch
More About Clos Malverne
The Routes Of Sound at Spier
‘The Routes of Sound’ is a new, late-winter, bite-sized music event at Spier Wine Farm in Stellenbosch. Each evening groups of 30 people will rotate amongst a series of cosy, atmospheric venues on the farm sampling the music of a range of talented local artists performing acoustically.
The event title ‘The Routes of Sound’ refers to the two routes along which audience groups will travel, each group visiting three out of six acts. The two routes merge for the final celebratory performance.
Participating musicians include Giuliette Price, Taleswapper, Ntokozo Zwane, Odwa Bongo, and Jak Thomas.
Cost: R300 (includes wine tasting). Tickets can be booked on Webtickets.
When: 26 – 28 September 2025 | 26th and 27th: 7.30pm | 28th: 3pm
Where: Spier Wine Farm, R310 Baden Powell Dr, Stellenbosch
Everything About the Routes of Sound
Visit the Hotel Sky
Hotel Sky, the home of style, indulgence and unforgettable views, is an iconic figure in the Cape Town skyline. Perfectly located for both personal and business travelers, the hotel is so much more than just a place to rest your head – it offers world-class restaurants, exquisite bars and lavish facilities, for an experience like no other.
If you’re a thrill seeker, make sure to take on the Sky-Hi Ride, an epic free fall that hits speeds of up to 100 km/h. You can also experience the thrill of the Sky-Hi Ride with the buy one, get one free special every Friday. This makes the experience just R250 for 2 riders, and it includes the video to prove your courage.
When: Every Friday from 16 May to 26 September 2025. Book on Webtickets.
Enjoy Specials at Silver Forest
Silver Forest offers soothing spa experiences, delectable dining and luxurious accommodation, with curated offerings that are designed to pamper, uplift, and empower. The boutique Somerset West hotel has something for everyone – make sure to take a weekend to experience all that they have to offer.
Where: Silver Forest, C/O Parel Vallei Road and Silverboomkloof Road, Somerset West
All the Specials at Silver Forest
Radisson Red Winter Series: Craig Lucas
This winter, the iconic Radisson RED Winter Playlist is back, bringing a dynamic live music series heating up the city every month with two unmissable nights of sound and style.
The 27 September event features South African music icon Craig Lucas, known for his distinct alternative pop hits. He is joined by supporting acts Sarah-Jane Thomas and DJ Garth B, with the event being hosted by Chad Saaiman.
Cost: R250. Tickets available on Quicket.
When: 27 September 2025 | doors open 6pm | music starts 7pm
Where: Radisson RED, No. 6, Silo, Silo Square, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, Cape Town
Catch Chickenhare and the Secret of the Groundhog in Cinemas
The exciting sequel to the 2022-released animation comedy, Chickenhare and the Hamster of Darkness, will be showing in cinemas across South Africa starting 19 September 2025.
In Chickenhare and the Secret of the Groundhog, Chickenhare and his friends embark on an epic quest in search of a mysterious groundhog with the power to reverse time and save his species. His adventure takes a dangerous turn when his group discover they are not the only ones searching for this ancient power.
Chickenhare and the Secret of the Groundhog opens at various Ster-Kinekor cinemas across the country, and Minimax and Roadhouse cinemas in the Western Cape from 19 September 2025.
All About The Film
VUUR x Mertia Heritage Day Collaboration
This Heritage Day, food lovers are invited to experience an unforgettable celebration of fire, flavour, and South African heritage as VUUR and MERTIA join forces for a one-of-a-kind culinary collaboration at Nieuwe Sion Wine Estate in Stellenbosch.
Acclaimed chefs will showcase their craft through the elemental power of fire. Chefs Matt van den Berg and Shaun Scrooby will present a continuous feast of refined braai-inspired dishes, each one crafted to celebrate flavour, texture and season.
Cost: R1500pp (Includes welcome drink, live entertainment, and food prepared by MERTIA & VUUR). Tickets available via Webtickets.
When: 24 September 2025 | 12 noon
Where: Nieuwe Sion Wine Estate, Watergat Rd, Simondium, Western Cape
Wine Concepts Chardonnay & Pinot Noir Celebration
The Wine Concepts Chardonnay & Pinot Noir Celebration is an exclusive evening celebrating two of the Cape’s most elegant varietals – Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Forty-five of the Cape’s premium wine producers will gather to present an exceptional line-up of more than 100 flagship wines, offering guests the chance to taste, compare and explore these noble Burgundian grapes in all their diversity.
To complement the wines, the chefs of Moyo Restaurant will prepare a delicious selection of snacks designed to enhance the flavour profiles of each style.
Cost: R480pp, including a wine glass, tastings, and snacks. Book via Webtickets
When: 18 September 2025 | 6pm to 9pm
Where: Moyo Restaurant, Kirstenbosch, Cape Town
All About Wine Concepts
Time Out Market Winter Wine
Join Time Out Market Cape Town for the final Winter Wine Series event, themed around the iconic combination of cheese and wine. As spring begins to bloom, this event is the perfect celebration, and promises to be a place where artisanal cheeses meet the sparkle of bubbly, MCCs, and the charm of delicate rosés. Some of the wine brands to be showcased on the day include Van Hunks, Hazendal, Druk my Niet, Vondeling, and Lowerland.
It’s the perfect way to toast the final chapter of the Winter Wine Series, a decadent afternoon of flavour and celebration at the Market. Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or just beginning to discover your palate, the Winter Wine Series is crafted to surprise, educate, and delight across the season.
Cost: R200pp. Tickets available on Howler.
When: 27 September 2025 | 1pm – 5pm
Where: Time Out Market Cape Town, V&A Waterfront
More About the Winter Wine Events
Discovery McGregor Winery
Inspired by the beauty and essence of its surroundings, McGregor Winery crafts wines that embody the spirit of the peaceful McGregor Valley. McGregor Winery offers a wide range of cultivars from Colombar to Cabernet Sauvignon and everything in between for your everyday drinking pleasure.
A visit to McGregor Winery is more than a tasting – it’s an experience. Guests are invited to explore the wines with the warm guidance of Mercia, who leads tastings in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. Local deli items are available for custom platters, perfect for enjoying by the fire in winter or picnicking on the expansive lawn in summer.
When: Monday – Saturday | Mon-Fri: 9am – 5pm | Sat: 9am – 2pm
Where: McGregor Winery, Langverwagten Road, McGregor
Visit McGregor Winery
Fancourt Oktoberfest
Fancourt celebrates Oktoberfest in authentic German style, with specially brewed Fancourt beer amongst many others.
The ticket includes entrance, a commemorative branded Weiss glass, two fine beers to start the fest and a food voucher. This is also an opportunity to dress up in the best Oktoberfest attire and stand a chance to win an epic prize.
Food stalls offer German-inspired dishes for sale including mini eisbein, wiener schnitzel, apple strudel, a selection of wurst, and pretzels. Various craft breweries will present a variety of beer for tasting.
Cost: R295. Tickets available on Quicket.
When: 20 September 2025 | 11am – 6pm
Where: Fancourt, Montagu St, Fancourt, George
Khayelitsha Book Festival
Khayelitsha Book Festival is a vibrant celebration of reading, writing, and storytelling rooted in the heart of one of South Africa’s most dynamic communities. Under the powerful theme “We Read, We Write: A Declaration…”, the festival brings together local authors, poets, educators, and young readers to affirm the importance of literacy as a tool for empowerment, identity, and change.
Through book launches, panel discussions, performances, and workshops, the festival inspires a love for literature and creates space for voices from Khayelitsha and beyond to be heard, shared, and celebrated.
Cost: R200 (weekend pass) | R50 per event. Tickets available on Quicket.
When: 26 – 28 September 2025
Where: Kilombo Village, 1 Joe Modise St, Mandela Park, Khayelitsha, Cape Town
Cape Town Photography Festival
Cape Town becomes a city-wide gallery as the Cape Town Photo Festival is underway with a vibrant, thought-provoking programme that celebrates photography in all its forms. From groundbreaking exhibitions and artist talks to hands-on workshops, music performances, and panel discussions, the festival brings together acclaimed international names, celebrated South African voices, and rising talent to explore the art, craft, and future of photography.
Centered at 6 Spin Street Gallery but spanning venues from Simon’s Town to Bellville, Observatory to Kalk Bay, the festival is a meeting point for photographers, creatives, and curious newcomers alike. With events for everyone, the Cape Town Photo Festival is as accessible as it is inspiring.
Cost: Prices vary per event. Tickets available on Quicket.
When: 3 – 27 September 2025
Where: Main space: 6 Spin Street Gallery, Cape Town
