We’ve got you covered with everything going on this weekend in the Mother City. Enjoy incredible dance and movie showings, laugh away at some stand-up comedy, and enjoy some games with friends. Plus, celebrate World Museum Day on 18 May, with our guide to the best museums in Cape Town. Here’s everything you need to know ahead of the upcoming weekend.
Celebrate Museum Day at Norval Foundation
On 18 May 2025, celebrate World Museum Day and enjoy a full day of art, architecture, and nature at Norval Foundation, all for 50% off day passes to the museum.
Explore world-class exhibitions, stroll through the Sculpture Garden, and take in the beauty of the Foundation’s unique setting. Make sure to finish off your visit with a meal at Grub and Vine, or purchase one of their delicious picnic baskets to eat on the lawn.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a long-time supporter, there’s something inspiring waiting for you at Norval Foundation.
Cost: R100pp (African nationals ages 25+) | R50pp (students, with valid card) | R150pp (internationals ages 25+). Tickets available on Webtickets, prices only available for 18 May 2025.
When: 18 May 2025 | 10am – 5pm
Where: Norval Foundation, 4 Steenberg Road, Tokai
More about Norval Foundation
Two Oceans Aquarium Trash Bash
The Two Oceans Aquarium is heading to Lagoon Beach to do their part in cleaning up the ocean. The monthly Trash Bash is the perfect opportunity for families to come together and learn about the dangers of plastic pollution and the importance of conservation awareness for biodiversity.
Make sure to bring weather-appropriate clothing, reusable gloves, a bucket or bag for collecting trash, and your desire to make a difference!
Cost: Free
When: 17 May 2025 | 9am – 11am
Where: Lagoon Beach, Milnerton
Everything about Trash Bash
Cape Ballet Africa: Intermezzo
Cape Ballet Africa is bringing its graceful new programme of short works to the charming Drama Factory, following a standout debut at the Artscape Opera House. The programme includes two works that celebrate various artists and poets, all brought to life by the exceptional Cape Ballet Africa dancers.
Celebrating Tchaikovsky showcases beloved ballet music from The Sleeping Beauty, Swan Lake, and The Nutcracker, brought to life by the company’s talented dancers.
The programme also features Desiderata, a moving suite inspired by Max Ehrmann’s famous poem, with stirring narration by acclaimed actor Marcel Meyer and original choreography by leading South African artists.
Cost: R280pp | R260pp (group of 4). Tickets available on the website.
When: 16 – 25 May 2025 | 7.30pm | Sun: 4pm | Sat matinee at 3pm
Where: The Drama Factory, 10 Comprop Sq, Henry Vos Close, Asla Business Park, Strand
Galileo Open Air Cinema
The last weekend of the Galileo Open Air Cinema’s performance programme sees both some romantic classics and action-packed thrillers. Don’t miss this final opportunity to catch a movie under the stars, before the cinema closes during the winter season.
On 15 May, catch the classic science fiction action movie The Matrix at Kirstenbosch Gardens. This is the first instalment in the Matrix film series, starring Keanu Reeves, Laurence Fishburne, Carrie-Anne Moss, Hugo Weaving and Joe Pantoliano, and depicts a dystopian future in which humanity is unknowingly trapped inside the Matrix, a simulated reality that intelligent machines have created to distract humans while using their bodies as an energy source.
For a change of pace, see the romantic drama The Notebook on 16 May at Kirstenbosch Gardens. The film stars Ryan Gosling and Rachel McAdams as a young couple who fall in love in the 1940s.
Finally, sing your heart out at the screening of Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again, on 17 May at Lourensford Wine Estate. The film features an ensemble cast, and is both a prequel and a sequel. The plot is set after the events of the previous film, and is intersected with flashbacks to Donna’s youth in 1979, with some scenes from the two time periods mirroring each other.
Cost: R145pp for entry only (take your own blanket); R165pp for entry, backrest and blanket. See all the ticket options at Webtickets. Special rates for students and pensioners
When: 15 – 17 May 2025 | 15 and 16 May: Doors open 6pm | 17 May: Doors open 5pm.
Where: Kirstenbosch Gardens | Lourensford Wine Estate
All About the Galileo
Athletic Club Wine & Social
Ease into the weekend with Wine and Social at the Athletic Club & Social, a relaxed end-of-week gathering for those who appreciate good wine and great company, in beautiful surroundings.
Held on the terrace, this laid-back experience invites you to learn about and taste a curated selection of wines, all locally made. Each week, a local winemaker will be featured—offering you the chance to discover new flavours, stories, and styles with every visit.
As the sun sets over the city, unwind with colleagues and friends, enjoy insightful sips, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere.
Cost: Free entry. Tickets must be booked on Quicket.
When: 16 May 2025 | 5.30pm – 7.30pm
Where: The Athletic Club & Social, 35 Buitengracht St, Cape Town City Centre
Visit A Museum on Museum Day
18 May is World Museum Day – a day to celebrate the institutions that uphold our culture and share our history to the world. Cape Town hosts a variety of museums that cater to various elements of South African history, culture and art.
From history and geography at the Iziko South African Museum and art at Norval Foundation, to more niche offerings such as the South African Perfume Museum and the Museum of Dogs, there’s sure to be a museum that piques your interest and helps you celebrate Museum Day.
The Best Museums in Cape Town
Marc Eugene Lottering at the Drostdy Theatre
Get ready for a night of unforgettable laughter with MARC EUGENE LOTTERING, the brand-new solo show from South Africa’s beloved comedy icon, Marc Lottering.
In this deeply personal and wildly hilarious performance, Lottering opens up like never before, sharing stories he’s never told on stage. After selling out seasons in both Joburg and Cape Town, critics and fans alike are calling it his best work yet.
Cost: R230pp. Tickets available on Webtickets.
When: 16 and 17 May 2025 | 8.15pm
Where: Drostdy Theatre, Cnr Alexander St &, Bird St, Stellenbosch
Cederberg Observatory Open Night
Visit the Cederberg Observatory for an unforgettable Saturday evening beneath some of the darkest, clearest skies in South Africa, nestled in the majestic mountains of the Cederberg.
This weekly stargazing experience allows attendees to ignite their imaginations, awaken their curiosities, and reconnect with the wonders of the cosmos. The evening begins with a captivating multimedia presentation that transports attendees beyond Earth’s boundaries into the vast, awe-inspiring reaches of the Universe and back through time itself.
Then, venture outdoors for a guided tour of the glittering Southern Skies. Peer through powerful telescopes to witness distant star clusters, glowing nebulae, and faraway galaxies – each a breathtaking glimpse into the mysteries of deep space.
Cost: From R120pp. Tickets available on Quicket
When: Saturdays | 8pm to 10pm
Where: Cederberg Astronomical Observatory, Citrusdal
Yoga at Norval Foundation
Start your morning with movement, breath, and beauty at a revitalising outdoor yoga session at Norval Foundation, in collaboration with Virgin Active Steenberg.
Set in the breathtaking Sculpture Garden, surrounded by art and nature, this energising class offers the perfect balance of serenity and strength. Led by a certified Virgin Active instructor, this all-level session is designed to awaken your senses and leave you feeling refreshed and inspired.
Cost: R250pp. Tickets available on Webtickets.
When: 17 May 2025 | 8am – 9am
Where: Norval Foundation, 4 Steenberg Road, Tokai
Hedda Gabler
Hedda and her successful yet uncomplicated husband, Jurg, have just returned from their honeymoon. She’s already bored with marriage, so when her former flame Lovborg arrives, she sets her life alight. Why? Because she can. In this modern adaptation of “Ibsen’s Hamlet”, Hedda shows one fat middle finger to being nice. She is horrible, and proud of it.
A talented cast includes Rolanda Marais, Albert Pretorius, Martelize Kolver, Ashley de Lange, Ludwig Binge and Stian Bam, with the production being directed and translated by Christiaan Olwagen.
Cost: R150 – R250pp. Tickets available on Webtickets.
When: 12 – 24 May 2025 (English run) | 7.30pm | Saturday matinee at 3.30pm
Where: Baxter Theatre, Main Rd, Rondebosch
World Belly Dance Day
For another year in a row, The Feminine Divine welcome all to celebrate World Belly Dance Day. Share in the magic, beauty and vibrancy that belly dancing brings and witness womxn from all walks of life as they transform from housewives, lawyers, mothers, nurses, police officers and academics, into bejewelled goddesses.
Watch as they embrace their bodies in all their glorious variations, leaving inspiration and self-acceptance in their wake. Expect stunning live belly dance performances from more than 20 studios, featuring dancers ranging from beginner-level through to the Western Cape’s top award-winning queens.
All profits from the day are donated to Rape Crisis, to support victims of sexual assault.
Cost: R110pp | R70pp (dancers and u/12s) | R350 stall fee. Tickets available on Quicket.
When: 17 May 2025 | 11am – 4pm
Where: The Wave Theatre, 44 Long St, Cape Town City Centre
Cape Town Club Jazz Brunch
Get ready for a stylish Sunday as the Cape Town Club hosts its inaugural jazz brunch, open to members and non-members. Enjoy a delicious roast, some brunch favourites, and the option of unlimited wine or MCC – all while soaking up smooth live jazz.
The band will perform two afternoon sets, so grab a drink, relax, and savour the music, food, and vibrant atmosphere.
Cost: R100 entry for non-members | R50 entry for members | R300 for unlimited wine / MCC. Tickets available on Quicket.
When: 18 May 2025 | 12.30 – 3.30pm
Where: 18 Queen Victoria Street, Cape Town City Centre
Pink Room Games Night Extravaganza
Immersive Cape Town is hosting another lively evening packed with fun, games, and plenty of opportunities to meet new people. Hosted by the one and only Mr. Monopoly, the night features a variety of board games, card games, interactive activities, and social games – all in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. There’s no pressure to get involved, just great company and great games.
Expect classics like chess, backgammon, Uno, Twister, and giant Jenga—perfect for sparking conversations and a bit of friendly competition.
A full bar will be open throughout the evening with a range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic options to keep you refreshed, and don’t forget to dress up as your favourite game character—there’s a prize for the best costume.
Cost: R80 online on Quicket | R100 at the door
When: 16 May 2025 | 7pm – 10pm
Where: The Pink Room, Gorgeous George Hotel, 118 St George’s Mall, Cape Town
Watch Juliet & Romeo in Cinemas
Juliet & Romeo, based on the timeless play by William Shakespeare, is bringing a bold, reimagined take on one of literature’s most iconic love stories. Directed by Timothy Scott Bogart, this new adaptation trades Shakespearean verse for an original pop score, breathing new life into the tale of the star-crossed lovers.
This is no ordinary retelling: Juliet & Romeo dives deeper into the origins of the legend, exploring the “real” history that inspired the tragedy and revealing how the lovers’ choices affect the fate of an entire Medieval empire. With a fresh musical approach, stunning visuals, and a powerful cast led by Clara Rugaard and Jamie Ward, this film promises to captivate audiences.
Juliet & Romeo is being screened at various Ster-Kinekor and Nu-Metro branches.
All About Juliet & Romeo
Stand Up Comedy Brunch
Join The Cape Town Comedy Show for a side-splitting afternoon at the Stand-Up Comedy Brunch, featuring a curated line-up of five top local comedians – a mix of familiar favourites and fresh new talent.
Enjoy flavour-packed Cuban food, a welcome drink on arrival, and live magic performances to keep you entertained between sets. It’s the perfect way to relax, laugh, and soak up the best of Cape Town’s comedy scene.
Grab your friends and make a day of it — good food, great laughs, and a little magic await!
Cost: R99pp (includes a welcome drink). Tickets can be booked on Quicket.
When: 17 May 2025 | 11am – 2pm
Where: El Greeyo Coffee Roastery, 9 Brickfield Park, 18 Brickfield Rd, Salt River
