This weekend in Cape Town promises a variety of events, from the return of the Galileo Open Air Cinema to the first Nelson Mandela Marathon and much more. This guide is continually updated throughout the week, so check back to see everything happening this weekend and our October guide for events throughout the month.
Galileo Open Air Theatre
Picnics, comfort watches and starlit skies return with The Galileo’s 15th season, bringing exciting events to the Galileo. Dog-friendly shows, themed nights, exclusive Royale experiences, and scenic new venues are back on the calendar, alongside the fan-favourite films that make the Galileo a perfect summer activity.
Viewers can once again look forward to an extensive selection of films appealing to all tastes, from classic movies to contemporary hits across genres such as romance, comedy, drama, animation, musicals, and thrillers.
The opening weekend includes screenings of fan favourites, including How to Lose A Guy in 10 Days and Mamma Mia. The full lineup is available on the website.
Cost: R155 per person for entry only (take your own blanket); R170pp for entry, backrest and blanket. See all the ticket options at Webtickets.
When: Multiple dates each week, running until May 2027 | Doors open at 5pm or 6pm, films start from 7.30pm
Where: Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden, Rhodes Dr, Newlands, Cape Town | Various venues
Sinful IV
The latest party being thrown by Incognito Events, Sinful IV sees Cape Town’s ravers and nightlife fiends take to Paarden Eiland for a night of scandalous outfits, Halloween-themed décor, and heart-thumping DJ sets.
The night is soundtracked by a mix of techno, psytrance, industrial, and melodic dance music played by some of Incognito’s most beloved DJs, including Archy, Zsa Zsa, Stephy Longueira, Das Kapital, and Pup Sketch. The main headliners are even more enticing, with Roxy Louw and a mystery DJ taking over the sound system throughout the night.
Far from a music-only experience, Sinful goes above and beyond with interludes of immersive theatre, performance art, and aerial burlesque dancers that bring a seductive energy to the night’s proceedings. The entire SPECTRA warehouse is transformed to fit the theme, using lavish décor, lights, and projections to immerse dancers in the atmosphere.
Cost: From R550 per person (general) | R1500 (VIP). Book now on Quicket.
When: Saturday, 17 October 2026 | 8pm – 4am
Where: SPECTRA, 5 Perfecta Rd, Paarden Eiland, Cape Town
Ne-Yo
As part of his globe-trotting Nights Like This 2026 tour, three-time Grammy Award-winning hitmaker Ne-Yo makes a highly anticipated stop in the Mother City.
Ne-Yo’s illustrious music catalogue includes a collection of global hits that every South African should know, including So Sick, Miss Independent and his collaborations with pop legend Pitbull: Give Me Everything and Time of Our Lives.
Over the span of his career, Ne-Yo has generated a combined total of 23 billion streams worldwide and a strong South African fan base that is in for the show of a lifetime this October.
Cost: From R990 per person. Book now on Webtickets.
When: Friday, 17 October 2026 | From 6pm
Where: GrandWest Grand Arena, 1 Jakes Gerwel Dr, Acacia Park, Cape Town
The President Hotel: Healing Earth Wellness Escape
Presented in collaboration with luxury wellness brand Healing Earth, this monthly wellness escape at the President Hotel starts with a refreshing dip at Saunders Rock just below the hotel, before warming up with a steamy sauna session. Then join a guided yoga session at the five-star-rated studio House of Yoga, followed by brunch at the health-conscious restaurant Wildsprout.
Next is Healing Earth’s Beauty Kitchen experience, where participants make their very own body scrub to take home, while learning more about ingredients, scents, and how these products are made.
Those who want to extend the experience can stay at the President Hotel overnight for an indulgent, restorative staycation. The package includes breakfast, welcome herbal tea, a Healing Earth gift, the full Wellness Retreat and brunch, dinner and a 60-minute holistic full-body massage.
Cost: R890 per person (Wellness Escape) | From R4590 (Wellness Staycation). Book via [email protected] or the website.
When: Saturday, 17 October 2026 | 9am – 2pm
Where: The Cove Wellness Spa, The President Hotel, 4 Alexander Road, Bantry Bay
The Cape Orchid Spring Show
Join the Cape Orchid Society for an extraordinary weekend to celebrate the season of new beginnings at the Spring Splendour Orchid Show. Set against the iconic silhouette of Devil’s Peak, this floral showcase in the ‘burbs promises breathtaking orchids, friendly experts, and a social day of connecting over fragrant flowers.
The Cape Orchid Society Spring Show is one of the society’s two flagship annual events that celebrate orchids in all their glory. For one special weekend only, society members and private growers display their finest orchids, offering visitors a rare chance to see these extraordinary flowers up close.
A wide variety of orchids and gardening supplies are available for purchase at the show, allowing anyone to start their very own orchid garden. Many expert vendors are on hand to sell orchids and companion plants, offer trusted advice, and provide everything needed to keep these new treasures thriving at home. The R20 raffle is also not to be missed, giving one lucky winner a collection of high-quality, vibrant orchids.
Cost: Free entrance
When: Saturday & Sunday, 17 & 18 October 2026 | 9am – 4pm (Saturday) | 9am – 3pm (Sunday)
Where: 6th Rondebosch Scout Group Hall, Chess Road, Rondebosch (The venue is wheelchair accessible)
Madame JoJo’s at Mavericks
The latest addition to Cape Town’s drag scene is here to stay. Every Thursday until December, Mavericks plays host to drag kings, queens, and in-betweens in a variety show where anything goes.
The night starts with half-priced cocktails from 7pm, followed by a mix of cabaret noir, sensual burlesque, surprise acts, and, of course, shows from many of the Mother City’s drag performers. After-dark is where the night kicks into gear, with DJs, go-go dancers, and a whole host of antics and mystery performances throughout the rest of the show – all hosted by Madame JoJo herself.
Cost: R200 per person. Book now on Quicket.
When: Every Thursday, until 4 December 2026 | 7pm – 4am | 8pm – 10.30pm (show starts) | From 10.30pm (After Dark)
Where: Mavericks Revue Bar, 72 Barrack St, Cape Town City Centre
Nelson Mandela Marathon
The inaugural Nelson Mandela Marathon brings 20,000 runners and walkers through a 42km route across Cape Town in honour of Nelson Mandela’s enduring legacy.
Organised by international sports company Golazo in partnership with the Nelson Mandela Foundation, the event donates all profits directly to the Foundation, which was established by Mandela after his retirement from public life to advance justice, dignity, equality and freedom through programmes in education, rural development and HIV/AIDS.
The marathon route begins on Strand Street and passes through the Atlantic seaboard, the Foreshore, and Milnerton before finishing on the historic Grand Parade, with Robben Island visible on the horizon. Final route details will be confirmed at the end of June 2026. Four ambassadors have been named: Dr Paul Tergat, five-time World Cross Country Champion and IOC member; Catherine Ndereba, two-time World Marathon Champion and four-time Boston Marathon champion; Hendrick Ramaala, former New York City Marathon champion; and Prudence Sekgodiso, women’s 800m world champion at the 2025 World Athletics Indoor Championships.
Joining the weekend is the Slave Route Challenge, a historically significant Cape Town race established in 2011 by Itheko Sport Athletic Club, offered in 21km, 10km, and 5km distances. The Slave Route Challenge routes pass landmarks including the Castle of Good Hope, Company’s Garden, Bo-Kaap, and District Six.
Cost: R700 (42km) | R260 (21km) | R190 (10km Run) | R150 (10km Walk) | R80 (5km). Entries open on the website.
When: Sunday, 18 October 2026
Where: Strand Street, Cape Town | Finish: Grand Parade, Cape Town
Garden Day at Norval Foundation
Enjoy a relaxed day in the sun in Norval Foundation’s iconic Sculpture Garden, as the museum opens its doors for Garden Day. Each ticket includes access to both the Sculpture Garden and the museum, so guests can explore the garden’s beauty and the eye-opening exhibitions inside.
A wide range of entertaining activities runs throughout the day, including flower crown workshops, face painting, a balloon artist, live music, food trucks, picnics, and creative workshops for kids. The main attraction is undoubtedly a live performance from Jungle Theatre, a beloved local theatre company that tells indigenous stories through music, dance, and puppetry. Adults can try three acclaimed Simonsig wines with a special, complimentary tasting experience.
Everyone is encouraged to bring a picnic blanket, soak up the spring atmosphere, and enjoy a day of relaxation, creativity, and connection in the Norval Foundation’s lush gardens.
Cost: R250 per person. Book now via Webtickets.
When: Sunday, 18 October 2026 | 10am – 4pm
Cape Town Craft Club
The Cape Town Craft Club circle brings creative people in the city together to make stuff in a laid-back, fun, judgement-free space. Everyone is welcome, from seasoned makers to absolute beginners.
Attendees are encouraged to bring their embroidery kit, clay toolbox, Copic markers, sewing machine, or whatever creative project they’re working on, and to join the club at Bree Street Community Hall. Craft circles are hosted by Andie Reeves, teacher, textile artist, and founder of Cape Town Craft Club.
Craft Club is an ideal activity for individuals and friend groups who want to meet like-minded people who make stuff, commit to making time for creativity, need guidance or input on a creative project, would like to work among those who inspire them, or simply crave a creative outlet.
Cost: R150 per person. Tickets can be bought on Quicket.
When: Thursday, 15 October 2026 | 6pm – 9pm
Where: Bree Street Community Hall (behind Clarke’s), 133 Bree St, Cape Town City Centre
Make new friends at these Cape Town social clubs
Junior Chef Fiesta Cooking Class
François Ferreira Academy hosts a hands-on children’s cooking class built around a Mexican-inspired menu, held in the school’s professional teaching kitchen on the Garden Route. Participants prepare their own Big Mac burritos and apple and cinnamon empanadas under the guidance of the academy’s chefs, working through each recipe from start to finish.
François Ferreira Academy is an accredited culinary arts and hospitality training institute, established in 2004 and based at Mount View Resort in George. Its kids’ cooking classes give younger learners exposure to a working chef training kitchen normally used for the academy’s professional diploma and certificate courses.
The class runs as a single morning session with limited seating, positioned as a hands-on activity rather than a demonstration-only format, with children actively involved in each stage of preparation.
Cost: R480 | Booking available on Quicket.
When: Saturday, 17 October 2026 | 9am to 12pm
Where: François Ferreira Academy, Farm 208, R102 Airport Road, George
African School of Coffee Open Day
Caffeine lovers can learn more about their favourite hot drink at the African School of Coffee’s Open Day. Five workshops run throughout the day, from learning the basics of roasting and making simple latte art to espresso extraction and manual brewing.
Alongside these short courses, visitors can taste different coffee blends alongside fellow enthusiasts and even join a live latte art showdown. All activities are free to join, but must be booked online.
Cost: Free. RSVP via Quicket.
When: Friday, 16 October 2026 | 10am – 3pm
Where: 36 Buitenkant St, Cape Town City Centre
Visit the Two Oceans Aquarium
The Two Oceans Aquarium is the heart and soul of Cape Town’s recreational relationship with the ocean. Since it opened in 1995, this unique and fascinating world of water creatures has offered us an insight into the ‘other home’ on our doorstep – a home of which many of us have very little knowledge.
The Two Oceans Aquarium provides a safe home for a variety of sharks, penguins, turtles, and several species of octopuses, moray eels, crabs and jellyfish. There are plenty of ways to see, meet and interact with all these creatures – ask one of the friendly aquarium staff members or learn more about which animals you can see here.
Cost: General entry allows you to see the animals. R280 (adults), R210 (pensioners, students, and children age 14-18), R130 (children 4 – 13 years). FREE for children aged 3 and under. Book general entry here.
When: Monday – Sunday | 9am – 6pm
Where: Two Oceans Aquarium, Dock Rd, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town
Deadly Dozen
Deadly Dozen brings its hybrid fitness race format to Green Point Athletic Stadium, combining twelve 400m runs with twelve strength-based stations on the inner field. The format includes movements such as farmers carries, deadlifts, lunges, snatches, burpee broad jumps and devil presses, completed back-to-back across the full course.
The race is open to all fitness levels, with no qualification required, and can be entered as a solo effort, in doubles sharing the labour stations, or as part of a relay team. Organisers describe the format as standardised and accessible while still demanding enough to challenge experienced athletes.
Beyond the race itself, the day includes a spectator vendor village, a kids’ play area, recovery zones and a beer garden, positioning the event as a broader community day out for racers and supporters alike. All entries include finisher photography and a finisher’s patch.
The event forms part of a wider Deadly Dozen series, with further 2026 editions also held in Durban and Pretoria.
Price: R100 per spectator | R1980 per participant entry. Book now on Webtickets.
Date: Saturday, 17 October 2026 | From 9am
Where: Green Point Athletic Stadium, Vlei Road, Green Point, Cape Town
ICA Live Arts Festival
Hosted by the Institute for Creative Arts (part of UCT), this festival brings 30 free, live art performances and exhibitions to various venues across the Mother City. From panel discussions on ethnomusicological art books and musical performances to locally produced dance pieces and experimental storytelling, audiences experience theatrical productions deeply rooted in important sociopolitical themes.
Much of the work is ‘site-specific’, meaning the pieces are created in response to the communities and spaces around them. Eight routes connect various sites, including Hiddingh Campus, the Company’s Garden, the Iziko Amphitheatre, Station Forecourt, St’ Georges Mall, the Castle, 16 on Lerotholi Gallery, and Guga S’thebe.
In addition to many local artists and performers, this year’s festival adds Swedish live artist Mauritz Tistelo to the lineup, while South African dancer Lorin Sookool takes his talents to Sweden. Every single performance is free to attend, with New York-based writer-critic Aruna D’Souza delivering 2026’s keynote speech on building solidarity through art.
The full programme is available on Facebook and Instagram.
Cost: Free. RSVP for selected events via Quicket.
When: Wednesday – Sunday, 14 – 18 October 2026
Where: Various locations across Cape Town
Luh’Ra Live at Athletic Club & Social
This three-storey bar is a sophisticated wine-and-jazz venue with a Mediterranean menu, cocktails, and a hidden basement bar. Throughout the week, the downstairs basement turns into a classic old-school jazz bar, with intimate seating, dim lights, and a true focus on the music.
Luh’ra brings her Cleo Sol-esque indie soul vocals and her own (literal) golden guitar playing to the club with an array of soft-spoken, elegant unreleased tracks, supported by her old band: Daniel Williams, Zwide Ndwandwe, and Keno Carelse.
Cost: R217 per person. Book tickets now on Fixr.
When: Saturday, 17 October 2026 | From 8pm
Where: The Athletic Club & Social, 35 Buitengracht Street, Cape Town City Centre
Our Bodies Remember by Jazzart
Jazzart Dance Theatre is once again giving talented artists a platform to bring their stories to Cape Town audiences, with Our Bodies Remember premiering this spring.
The show, featuring new works from members of Jazzart’s Artistic Residency programme, explores the question: what do our bodies remember, and what happens when we wake up to who we really are?
The first performance, Ancient Souls, choreographed by Lihle Mfene, constructs a reality where people gather in the afterlife to unpack identity and life itself.
The second part of the double bill is Chesney Stanfield’s Unveil, a deeply reflective piece about awakening, created with Jazzart alumnus Emile Petersen. Together, the duo form the performance group Gain Collective, which performs shows across the country.
Cost: R150 per person. Book now on Webtickets.
When: Thursday – Saturday, 15 – 17 October 2026 | 7.30pm – 8.40pm | 2pm – 3.10pm (Sat)
Where: Artscape Theatre Centre, D.F. Malan St, Foreshore, Cape Town
Affordable Activities: V&A Harbour & Seal Cruise
The Waterfront Harbour Cruise is a short boat trip through the V&A Waterfront’s working harbour, departing from the jetty near the Two Oceans Aquarium. Operated by City Sightseeing, the open-air cruise runs daily and lasts approximately 25 to 30 minutes.
Passengers travel through South Africa’s oldest working harbour, passing the SAS Somerset, the last remaining boom defence vessel of its kind still afloat, built in 1941 and now moored as a museum ship. The route also passes the Bascule Bridge, a pedestrian swing bridge and the largest synchro-lift in the southern hemisphere, along with the historic Clock Tower, built in 1882 as the original Port Captain’s office.
Cost: R85 adult | R50 child. Book now on the website.
When: Daily (ongoing, weather dependent) | 9am to 5pm, departs every 30 minutes
Where: V&A Waterfront, Bus Stop 1, Dock Road, below the Two Oceans Aquarium
Affordable activities & cheap outings in Cape Town
The Craving
An immersive theatre experience that puts audiences in the middle of a psychological thriller unfolding within a fictional restaurant, The Craving is the latest of The Outlore Base’s series of unsettling and experimental stage shows. What seems like a passionate chef preparing an avant-garde seven-course meal gives way to her twisted experiments on staff and guests in the pursuit of culinary perfection.
As she gets closer and closer to her goals, she uncovers a truth that begs the question: who is creating who?
There are three types of tickets available throughout the run. The “Watcher” is given a phone and tasked with recording the troubling events as they unfold, showing what is happening through their own eyes. “Tasting” tickets allow guests to reserve a seat for the seven-course dining experience, although what exactly they eat is up to the chef (fussy eaters are encouraged to save their stomachs). Finally, general access allows viewers to experience the night as it dives further into madness.
Cost: R180 per person (general access) | R150 per person (Watcher) | R750 per person (Tasting Ticket). Book now on Quicket.
When: Thursdays – Saturdays, 11 September – 17 October 2026 | 8pm – 10.30pm
Where: The Outlore Base, 80 Hout St, Cape Town City Centre
Digger
Directed by the Oscar-winning visionary Alejandro G. Iñárritu, best known for Birdman and The Revenant, this latest film is a comedy of “catastrophic proportions” starring Tom Cruise. Beyond that, we don’t know much.
The most powerful man in the world races to prove he is humanity’s saviour before the disaster he unleashed destroys everything.
The cast is filled with some fan favourites, including Jesse Plemons, Sandra Hüller, Riz Ahmed, John Goodman, and Emma D’Arcy. The movie’s very strange and intriguing “teaser trailer” (which, for some reason, features clips from most of Cruise’s previous films) is out now on YouTube.
When: Opens in theatres on 2 October 2026
Where to watch: Set for release at Ster-Kinekor cinemas nationwide
Hotels: The President Hotel
Perfectly positioned in one of the only windless areas in Cape Town, the President Hotel in Bantry Bay offers visitors one-of-a-kind views of Table Mountain and the Atlantic Ocean, making for a suitable summer escape that isn’t far from City Centre.
Each of the 349 rooms at The President Hotel comes with high-speed, secure WiFi, smart technology, and spacious lodging. Guests can make the most of the hotel’s premium location by choosing between mountain-facing, ocean-facing, or classic urban environments.
The hotel offers five dining spots, one for every occasion, plus a Cove Wellness Spa that welcomes guests with natural products and professional treatments.
Learn more about staying at The President Hotel on the website.
Where: The President Hotel, 4 Alexander Rd, Bantry Bay, Cape Town
The Rocky Horror Show
The legendary cult musical The Rocky Horror Show, presented by Pieter Toerien Productions in association with the Luitingh Alexander Musical Theatre Academy (LAMTA), is back in Cape Town after its successful run earlier this year. This electrifying staging by director Steven Stead promises to unleash all the wild energy, wicked humour and rock ’n’ roll rebellion that has made the show a global phenomenon for over 50 years.
The show stars an award-winning South African cast led by Craig Urbani (We Will Rock You), who reprises his role as Frank-N-Furter, with Léa Blerk (Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat) as Janet, and Robert Everson (Noises Off) as Brad.
Cost: R295 – R495. Tickets available on Webtickets.
When: 28 August – 18 October 2026 | 8pm | 4pm & 8pm (Saturdays) | 2pm (Sundays)
Where: Theatre on the Bay, Link St, Camps Bay, Cape Town
One&Only Restoration Ritual
Available throughout spring, One&Only’s Restoration Ritual gives guests a one-of-a-kind spa treatment and a Nobu dinner to help them get in the right headspace for the busy summer ahead.
The exclusive offer begins with a 90-minute treatment at the One&Only Spa, tailored to meet guests’ specific needs regarding relaxation, hydration, and recovery. The opportunity continues with a curated four-course dining experience in One&Only’s luxurious Nobu location, allowing guests to indulge in Chef Nobuyuki Matsuhisa’s culinary vision.
Even the menu focuses on health and wellness, with each dish carefully considered for its value beyond just flavour. From the protein boost of edamame beans and the gut-health benefits of miso soup to the antioxidants in Nobu’s field greens and the Omega glow of steamed salmon dry miso (or a salmon & avocado cut roll), each bite complements the extensive spa treatment – making for a comprehensive Restoration Ritual to start the new season.
Cost: R3500 per person. To find out more, visit the website.
When: Restoration Ritual is exclusively available 1 September – 31 October 2026
Where: Dock Rd, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront
Public Stargazing Event
Anyone can join this experience to learn how to use a telescope, listen to professional astronomy talks, and discover the celestial objects in our night sky. Visitors can bring their own telescopes or just join for the stargazing by themselves.
When: Saturday, 17 October 2026 | 7pm – 9pm
Where: Clock Tower District, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront
Jean-Philippe Sylvestre
Acclaimed Canadian pianist Jean-Philippe Sylvestre performs at Youngblood Africa this weekend, bringing classical compositions and sharp technique to Cape Town. With various national Canadian awards, including the CBC National Competition for Young Performers and the sought-after Virginia Parker Prize, Sylvestre has performed as a soloist alongside the Quebec Symphony Orchestra and Montreal Symphony Orchestra.
The concert is presented by music promoter Slow Life.
Cost: R250 per person (general) | R150 for students & pensioners. Book now on Quicket.
When: Friday, 16 October 2026 | 7pm – 8.15pm
Where: Youngblood Africa, 70 Bree St, Cape Town City Centre
Quirky Coffee Shops: Our Local
More popular than ever after Dua Lipa was spotted at the Kloof Street cafe, Our Local is a trendy spot known for their biophilic interior design, with lots of plants and thrifty vintage furniture.
They have one of the most extensive food menus among the city’s popular cafes, with dedicated breakfast, brunch, and lunch options. Their 2-for-R200 burger special on Wednesday evenings is a local favourite, with regular beef, pregos, and a falafel veggie burger, all suited for dates and catch-ups. Their hot drink selection is on the traditional side, with plunger coffee, tonic espresso, and orange espresso.
When: Monday – Sunday | 8am – 11pm | 8am – 3.30pm (Sun & Mon)
Where: 117 Kloof St, Gardens, Cape Town
Find your new favourite coffee spot to keep warm this spring
Photography & Filmmaking Workshop at The Studio
The Mother City’s amateur photographers and videographers are invited to this professional workshop all about the craft behind the camera. The Studio’s Aidan Tøbias explores how different kinds of lighting can affect a frame, while award-winning independent cinematographer Sacha Specker shares more about his work in fine art ocean landscapes, action adventure sports, and nature conservation documentaries.
Each ticket includes entry to the evening’s session, two drinks, and half a pizza from The Woodlands Eatery, an acclaimed authentic Italian restaurant in the area. Tickets can be upgraded to include one hour of studio time.
Cost: R150 per person (workshop) | R650 (workshop + studio time). Book now on Quicket.
When: Friday, 16 October 2026 | 6.30pm – 9.30pm
Where: The Studio, 12 Ravenscraig Rd, Woodstock, Cape Town
Rockefeller Hotel: City Lights, More Nights
To make each stay even more special, The Rockefeller is giving guests a special deal to enjoy their urban getaway at an even better price. Ideal for a weekend spent eating, staying, and playing in the Mother City, guests get up to 20% off the Best Available Rate if they stay for three nights or longer – valid throughout spring and early summer.
The offer includes the option to add complimentary breakfast each night, so guests can save money while enjoying The Rockefeller’s acclaimed breakfast offering. Bookings can be made using the website or by emailing [email protected].
When: Valid until 20 December 2026
Where: The Rockefeller Hotel, 12 Christiaan Barnard St, Foreshore, Cape Town
The Social Reckoning
The much-anticipated sequel to the Facebook origin story The Social Network follows the true story of Facebook engineer Frances Haugen (Mikey Madison), who blows the whistle on the trillion-dollar corporation’s darker secrets. The cast also includes Jeremy Allen White as a Wall Street Journal reporter and an older Mark Zuckerberg, now played by Jeremy Strong.
Aaron Sorkin, the writer of the original film (which won three Academy Awards), returns as the film’s writer-director. After The Social Network uncovered many of the scandals that plagued Facebook’s formative years, The Social Reckoning dives even deeper into the terrifying true story of what the company has become over the years.
The film’s trailer is out now on YouTube.
When: Opens in theatres on 9 October 2026
Where to watch: Likely to be released at Ster-Kinekor cinemas nationwide
Emo Nights: Karaoke & Quiz
One of Cape Town’s favourite nightlife collectives is moving beyond the party for this completely free event. Teams can have up to 6 members, and everyone competes for a mystery prize using their knowledge of iconic punk bands, emo albums, and more. P.S. The quiz master is always right.
After the showdown is over, the night’s best (and worst) singers take to the stage for emo karaoke. Expect big personalities, emo outfits, a crowd singing along to every word, and dramatic performances from the biggest theatre kids. A Safety Team is on hand to keep the night from getting out of hand.
When: Saturday, 17 October 2026 | 5pm – late | Karaoke from 8pm
Where: Roxy Woodstock, 354 Albert Rd, Woodstock, Cape Town
Forgotten Island
Forgotten Island is an original animated fantasy adventure from DreamWorks Animation, directed by Joel Crawford and Januel Mercado and marking the studio’s 50th animated feature. Set in the 1990s, the story follows lifelong best friends Jo and Raissa, voiced by H.E.R. and Liza Soberano, who stumble through a portal on their last night together before high school graduation sends them down separate paths.
The portal leads to Nakali, a magical island rooted in Philippine mythology and populated by shapeshifters, demons and witches drawn from Filipino folklore. The film also features Dave Franco as a well-meaning weredog named Raww and Tony winner Lea Salonga as the Manananggal, one of the island’s most feared creatures.
Crawford and Mercado, longtime collaborators at DreamWorks since Kung Fu Panda 2, based the project partly on their own friendship, and it marks Mercado’s directorial debut. Jo and Raissa discover that returning home may cost them the memories of their entire friendship, raising the emotional stakes beyond a typical animated adventure.
The film’s official trailer is out now on YouTube.
When: Forgotten Island is scheduled to release on 25 September 2026
Where to watch: Bookings are almost open on Ster-Kinekor
East City: Mamacitas
One of the few places in Cape Town where diners can try Mexican, LA-based cuisine, Mamacitas is a bright, loud night-time dining spot on Harrington Street. The Cal-Mex menu includes street-food staples like wings, nachos, tacos, and burgers, while their signature cocktails are colourful and highly customisable. One of the biggest attractions is undoubtedly their daily specials, which range from affordable Thursday date nights to kids eating free on Sundays and their famous Taco Tuesdays.
Guests can opt to sit in the bustling interior or eat outside for the true Los Angeles street food experience. Tables can be booked online.
When: Monday – Sunday | 11am – late
Where: 75 Harrington St, District Six, East City, Cape Town
Where to eat, drink & party in the East City
Stay at the One&Only Hotel
One&Only Cape Town offers multiple luxury accommodation options. At the heart of the vibrant Victoria & Alfred Waterfront and framed by the majesty of Table Mountain, the hotel offers an urban escape surrounded by private waterways. The rooms and suites are some of the largest in Cape Town and offer a unique experience of the city.
Open to One&Only visitors, Nobu offers a glamorous dining experience headed by global Michelin-starred chef Nobu Matsuhisa. It is the only Nobu location in Southern Africa offers an unforgettable journey of gourmet excellence and masterful Japanese-Peruvian cuisine.
In a beautiful blend of art and design, One&Only Cape Town’s spa has been relaunched with a celestial theme, offering unparalleled experiences of sanctuary and serenity. Drawing on the timeless beauty of the southern skies and the travel-inspired Southern Cross constellation, visible year-round in Cape Town, the spa creates an environment of relaxation and restoration.
Where: ROOI, One & Only Cape Town, Dock Rd, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, Cape Town
Cape Wheel
The Cape Wheel offers a spectacular 360 panoramic view of Cape Town from the vibrant V&A Waterfront precinct. With 30 fully enclosed, air-conditioned cabins, the Wheel takes you 40m above the ground in safety and comfort on the four-revolution ride.
A trip on the Cape Wheel allows you to see the postcard-like views of the Mother City from a bird’s-eye view, letting you take in the beauty of Cape Town from all angles.
Even better, with the sun going down earlier in the winter months, it’s even easier to have a picturesque sunset ride during this time – seeing the entire city lit up in golden hour, with plenty of time to spend in the Waterfront before it gets too late. Additionally, the comfortable, fully-enclosed cabins offer a cosy retreat from the cold weather outside.
Cost: R180 (SA adults) | R275 (non-SA adults) | R95 (children – aged 4-17) | Free (children under 3)
When: Monday – Sunday | 11am – 9pm (Mon – Thu) | 10am – 10pm (Fri, Sat & public holidays) | 10am – 9pm (Sun)
Where: Cape Wheel, The Lawns, Breakwater Boulevard, V&A Waterfront
Resident Evil
The latest film adaptation of the fan-favourite video game franchise, acclaimed writer-director Zach Cregger (Barbarian, Weapons) continues his run of quality horror films with Resident Evil. The film stars many emerging Hollywood talents in Austin Abrams (Euphoria, Weapons), Zach Cherry (Severance), and Kali Reis (True Detective: Night Country).
Bryan, a medical courier, is in the process of making a delivery to Raccoon City General Hospital when an outbreak forces him to fight for survival.
The film follows a version of the events of Resident Evil 2, one of the most beloved games in the series, albeit with an entirely new story. The 2026 horror movie is the latest addition to the recent renaissance of video game adaptations in film and television, following in the footsteps of The Last of Us, Five Nights at Freddy’s, and Fallout. The creepy trailer is available now on YouTube.
When: Resident Evil is scheduled to release on 25 September 2026
Where to watch: Bookings are almost open on Ster-Kinekor
Hout Bay & Constantia: Cecilia Forest
Nature lovers will enjoy Cecilia Forest’s winding hiking trails and beautiful Table Mountain views. The area hosts the rich biodiversity of the Cape Floral Kingdom, with colourful proteas and towering evergreen trees among the fynbos. The trail is a moderate, 4-kilometre hike: not the easiest stroll, but still manageable for families and active pets.
The main attraction is undoubtedly Cecilia Waterfall, which offers a tranquil resting spot for hikers and is ideal for a mid-day picnic under the shaded trees. Those needing a cool-off can stand under the rushing water while the rest of the group sets up camp for snacks.
When: Open 24/7; recommended to hike during the daytime
Where: Main entrance at cnr of Rhodes Dr & Southern Cross Dr, Constantia, Cape Town
Attractions & activities around Constantia and Hout Bay
Zeitz MOCAA
The Zeitz Museum of Contemporary African Art (MOCAA) is one of Cape Town’s leading art galleries dedicated to contemporary art from Africa and its diaspora. Housed in the now-iconic Silo Building at the V&A Waterfront, the gallery boasts both a permanent exhibition and temporary, rotating exhibitions, all contributing to the preservation and promotion of African artists.
Tickets and memberships for the Zeitz MOCAA can be purchased on Webtickets or at the door of the museum.
When: Daily | 10am – 6pm
Where: Zeitz MOCAA, S Arm Rd, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, Cape Town
Bo-Kaap Market
One of the most famous neighbourhoods in Cape Town, the Bo-Kaap has recently opened its doors every weekend for people to come & enjoy the food, culture and music of the area. With live performances and a variety of local goods, the city of Cape Town’s setup aims to expand tourism’s positive impact on one of the oldest living cultural communities in the city.
Enjoy classic Cape Malay dishes and snacks, memorabilia and local goods for sale, and a lively atmosphere, make sure to stop by the new Bo-Kaap market for a taste of culture.
Where: Corner of Pentz Street and Yusuf Drive, Bo-Kaap, Cape Town
When: Saturday & Sunday | 10am – 7pm
Spend the day at the biggest weekend markets in Cape Town
Fairmont Spa at Cape Grace
For guests and visitors alike, the Fairmont Spa offers a relaxing experience with three treatment rooms, each designed to maximise comfort. In addition, there are premium wellness facilities: a Halotherapy salt room, a sauna, a steam room, and a heated outdoor pool.
Cape Grace’s personalised spa menu includes everything from customisable massages and facial treatments to skin therapies and manicure & pedicure services. Each therapy draws from indigenous botanicals, delivering fynbos-inspired spa treatments.
Non-residents who book a 60-minute treatment or longer enjoy complimentary access to the premium wellness facilities, including the salt room, sauna, steam room, and heated outdoor pool. Guests can even purchase a curated spa journey, with two hours of personalised treatments followed by a Mediterranean-inspired lunch served on the Pool Terrace.
Cost: From R990 for a signature facial skincare treatment | From R740 for a 30-minute massage | All treatments & experiences are available in the brochure.
When: Spa open from 8am – 8pm daily.
Where: Fairmont Spa, Cape Grace Hotel, W Quay Rd, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront
