This weekend in Cape Town promises a variety of events, from HYROX Cape Town and gaming tournaments to HEAT jazz concerts and much more. This guide is continually updated throughout the week, so make sure to check back to see everything going on this weekend and our August guide for events throughout the month.

Internet Athi & Mishy Kope

The most exciting name in South African jazz, Internet Athi was listed as Apple Music’s latest Up Next SA Artist, with his 2026 album Polymorphism receiving widespread critical acclaim and over a million streams on Spotify. Listeners can expect reimagined versions of fan favourites like his 2024 hit Wena, as well as renditions of album tracks, including Nguwe, Mna, and Undithembisile.

Afro-folk artist Mishy Kope is another quickly emerging star, making emotional piano-backed ballads and traditional Xhosa folk anthems, like her breakout Qongqotha. This performance comes soon after the release of her latest track, Yimpi Engapheliyo (‘It is an unending war’), an upbeat, jazzy celebration that kicks off a new era.

Cost: R200 per person. Book tickets for HEAT now on Quicket.

When: Saturday, 15 August 2026 | 7pm – 10pm
Where: Central Methodist Mission Church, 44 Long St, Cape Town City Centre

Experience the best music, theatre, arts, and more at HEAT Winter Festival

HYROX

The first event of the 26/27 HYROX season is here, with the Mother City’s fittest and most dedicated athletes pushing themselves to the absolute limit this weekend. Participants take part in several 1km runs and a series of tough functional exercises that test all parts of the body, with separate categories for singles, doubles, and relay racers. The most competitive athletes do their best to rank high on the global leaderboards, while most are more than fine with being rewarded a HYROX finishers patch for completing the full circuit.

Those participating in the event have already booked and confirmed their places, but spectators can still get a pass to cheer on and support their loved ones as they work through the tough challenges and push them to the finish line. The full programme with exact categories and times is available on the website.

Cost: R175 per person (Friday or Sunday passes) | Children under 12 are free but require a ticket. Bookings can be made online.

When: Friday – Sunday, 14 – 16 August 2026 | Groups start from 7am
Where: Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC), Convention Square, 1 Lower Street, Cape Town

Women’s Health Expo 2026

The Women’s Health Expo is a social event for women to meet, discuss, and engage with women’s health in a variety of ways. The event is dedicated to all women on their wellness journey, whether complete beginners or already deeply invested in self-care.

Guests enjoy guided classes and experiences, inspiring talks on women’s health and wellness, free health screenings for a variety of issues, and a wellness market with local entrepreneurs and wellness practitioners. There are various fitness exercises, including Pilates, yoga, and HIIT. The speaker list includes Dr Elsa Du Toit, Marissa Brendel, Dr Russell Cooper, and Angela Shurina.

Every attendee receives an R500 shopping voucher to spend either online or in-store with the event’s official fashion partner.

Cost: R150 per person. Book now on Quicket.

When: Saturday, 15 August 2026 | 9am – 6pm
Where: Premier Hotel Cape Town, 1 Marais Rd, Sea Point, Cape Town

Anica Kiana & Mila Smith Live

This Women’s Month celebration sees two of Cape Town’s rising pop stars take to the stage at Springbok Arms for a high-energy live show.

Anica Kiana has quickly been climbing the pop charts, debuting in 2019 and steadily growing while working with Locnville, Nasty C, and The Big Hash. Her 2021 single Gotta Leave has since amassed just under 200,000 streams on Spotify, and her most recent music video, Not The Same, was one of the most viral moments in Cape Town pop music this year.

Mila Smith is a similarly exciting talent, already receiving a SAMA nomination for Best Album for her debut EP You Need Therapy in 2023 – while still being a teenager. She has since grown as an artist, moving beyond the traditional pop aesthetic for one that leans more alternative and punk-influenced, with newer hits like Cake and Wishing on a Daydream receiving tons of attention on social media.

Cost: R100 per person. Book now on Quicket.

When: Friday, 14 August 2026 | 7pm – 11pm
Where: Springbok Arms, 135 Lower Main Rd, Observatory, Cape Town

Prima Facie

How Now Brown Cow presents the South African premiere of Suzie Miller’s award-winning Prima Facie, directed by celebrated theatre maker Neil Coppen, whose previous credits include Isidlamlilo/The Fire Eater, Animal Farm and Tin Bucket Drum.

The production is a one-woman performance that tackles gender-based violence and the challenges survivors face as they navigate the justice system. Danica De La Rey Jones, known for Hunting Jessica Brok, Unseen and For Colored Girls, performs the role of Tessa, a brilliant young barrister who climbs her way up from working-class origins to the top of her profession. Tessa believes in the legal system until a brutal attack turns her world upside down, forcing her to navigate the same system she once championed.

Cost: R250 per person. Book now on Webtickets.

When: 4 – 29 August 2026 | From 8pm (Tue – Sat) | From 3pm (Saturday matinee)
Where: Baxter Studio, Baxter Theatre Centre, Main Road, Rondebosch, Cape Town

Six Michelin Stars Dinner at Amura

The luxurious fine-dining restaurant at the Mount Nelson, Amura, is once again bringing some of the world’s most acclaimed restaurateurs to the kitchen.

The first three nights of this exclusive experience see Chef Alain Roux take over the kitchen, blending his French cooking style with local South African ingredients. On offer is a six-course tasting menu, including Chef Alain’s signature Truffle Croque Monsieur: seared scallop paired with sweetcorn, lime and an aromatic vadouvan sauce. Dessert concludes the flavourful journey with a warm raspberry soufflé, a Waterside Inn classic served for more than half a century.

The main attraction is the final evening, where Chef Ángel joins Chef Alain in a one-of-a-kind, Four Hands collaboration on the African continent. Each chef presents a dish that has become synonymous with their mark on the culinary world: Roux’s fried lobster medallion with ginger-flavoured vegetable julienne and white port sauce, followed by León’s savoury plankton risotto.

Cost: R3500 per person (Alain Roux residency) | R4500 per person (Four Hands). Reserve seats on Dineplan, or by emailing [email protected]

When: 13 – 15 August 2026 (Alain Roux residency) | 16 August 2026 (Four Hands) | Arrival from 7pm | Sit-down from 7.30pm
Where: Mount Nelson Hotel, 76 Orange Street, Gardens, Cape Town

Cape Palooza

This daytime social event invites Cape Town’s young adults to meet and spend time with one another, celebrating the incoming spring weather on The Terrace Rooftop. Guests can expect to groove through the afternoon and evening listening to a mix of Afro-beats, Hip-Hop and RnB.

The event features a tattoo station, food, games, and more activities to partake in throughout the day. Attendees are encouraged to wear swimwear and shades and bask in the weekend sun.

Cost: R150 per person. Book now on Quicket.

When: Saturday, 15 August 2026 | 1pm – 10pm
Where: The Terrace Rooftop, 12 Kremer Rd, Salt River, Cape Town

Yazuke

Inspired by the remarkable true story of Africa’s first samurai, this BABA YAYA dance production brings together African contemporary dance, traditional martial movements, ritual performances, live music, and Japanese avant-garde theatre.

The piece tackles the ever-evolving search for belonging within everyone, inviting audiences to confront fear, embrace diversity, and find solace in the unknown.

Cost: R150 per person. Book now on Quicket.

When: Thursday & Friday, 13 & 14 August 2026 | 6pm – 7pm
Where: Central Methodist Mission, 44 Long St, Cape Town City Centre

Falling Forward by Rachel Kolisi

Falling Forward is a personal documentary following Rachel Kolisi through the defining seasons of her life: identity, loss, healing, motherhood, courage and rediscovery. The Cape Town screening at the Artscape Theatre is part of the second national Falling Forward Roadshow, which follows five sold-out cities and more than 4,500 attendees on the first tour. Each screening event includes a women-led marketplace of female-owned businesses and brands, the full documentary, and a live fireside conversation with Rachel Kolisi following the film.

Rachel Kolisi is a South African speaker, businesswoman, philanthropist and co-founder of the Kolisi Foundation, an organisation focused on social impact in areas including food security, education and gender equality. She published a companion memoir, also titled Falling Forward, in March 2026, written in collaboration with author Zibu Sithole and published by Pan Macmillan South Africa.

The event is presented as part of the Artscape Women’s Humanity Arts Festival 2026.

Cost: R295 per person. Book now on Webtickets.

When: Saturday, 15 August 2026 | First show from 12pm | Second from 5.30pm
Where: Artscape Theatre Centre, D.F. Malan Street, Foreshore, Cape Town

Norval Foundation: Ekphrastic Poetry Evening

Guided by Portia Zvavahera’s Tanda rima exhibition, which tackles dreams, memories and lived experiences in intricate, moving paintings, Norval Foundation welcomes writers of all skill levels to participate in this generative writing workshop.

All participants explore the medium of ekphrastic poetry, a creative technique where writers reflect on and engage with visual art through their work. Equally suited for professional wordsmiths and those simply curious about writing, this workshop invites guests to see art through a new lens and transform their personal thoughts into meaningful poetry.

The workshop is led by writer-teacher Tayla Paige, with all tickets including complimentary wine and full museum access.

Cost: R350 per person. Book now on Webtickets.

When: Thursday, 13 August 2026 | From 7pm
Where: Norval Foundation, 4 Steenberg Road, Tokai

Social Clubs To Try: Queer Surf Meet-Up

With weather improving bit by bit, it’s time for South Africa’s queer surfers to meet up, ride some waves, enjoy the beach, and catch a coffee together once again. The event is open to surfers of all levels, including complete beginners needing some encouragement from experienced riders to catch waves for the first (or 50th) time. Those with their own gear are welcome to bring it along, and those without can rent wetsuits and boards from Lifestyle Surf Shop at no cost.

Surfing usually lasts for about an hour, after which members are encouraged to join the group for a coffee, or even a picnic on the beach (if the weather plays along). R50 donations are welcome but not required to join.

Cost: Free to join. RSVP on Quicket.

When: Sunday, 16 August 2026 | 8.30am – 12pm
Where: Lifestyle Surf Shop (Surfer’s Corner), 21 York Rd, Muizenberg Beach

Make new friends at these Cape Town social clubs

From London With Love – Cape Grace x Savoy Afternoon Tea

This special collaboration between Cape Grace and the Savoy Hotel, London’s first luxury hotel, celebrates the deep tradition of afternoon tea, with a distinct South African twist. The experience is hosted at Heirloom, Cape Grace’s flagship fine-dining establishment, with gorgeous mountain and marina views as guests enjoy a series of curated treats and drinks.

One of the menu’s highlights is a reimagined Peach Melba, in honour of The Savoy’s original head chef, Auguste Escoffier, who is often credited as the father of modern French cuisine – now brought to life with Cape Town ingredients and flair.

Guests can expect filled and flavoured scones from Scoff, The Savoy’s dedicated scone bakery, and a range of seasonal cakes and tarts that make the most of the winter’s produce. On the savoury side, smoked snoek pate, free-range chicken roulade, braised leek tartlet, and a selection of finger sandwiches are available for indulgence. 

Cost: R750 per person, including bubbles or iced tea. Spaces can be booked on Dineplan or by calling 021 410 7100.

When: 17 July – 13 September 2026 | Seatings between 1.30pm and 3pm

Spider-Man: Brand New Day

The start of a brand new trilogy of Sony Pictures’ Spider-Man franchise films finally arrives in cinemas this winter. In Spider-Man: Brand New Day, a college-aged ‘Spider-Man’ (Tom Holland) has to navigate life in a world where Peter Parker no longer exists.

He lives on his own with no family and friends to speak of, working full-time as a superhero. As he tries to reconnect with the friends he once knew as Peter Parker before any trace of him was erased from his world, a strange new pattern of crimes gives rise to one of the most powerful threats Spider-Man has ever faced.

The trailer for the movie is out now on YouTube.

When: Spider-Man: Brand New Day opens in theatres on Friday, 31 July 2026
Where to watch: Set for release at Ster-Kinekor cinemas nationwide

Keep up with the latest movie releases in Cape Town

Vuyo Viwe, Tessi Nandi & Ruby Alix

This concert forms part of HEAT Winter Festival, a multi-cultural celebration of South African art, its creators, and its community, bringing some of the city’s rising stars from different art forms together in one high-quality, connective space.

A standout among Joburg’s thriving jazz scene, Vuyo Viwe is a flautist, vocalist and composer who continues the legacy of orchestral folk that moves between prayer, protest, and poetry. Tessi Nandi of Mbombela is a talented singer-songwriter and guitarist known for her nostalgic R&B and soul-laced sound. Her 2025 single, Embody, became a streaming hit, attracting over 150,000 streams on Spotify.

Cape Town-based Ruby Alix is the final performance of the night, diving deep into themes of grief, love, and heartbreak with her raw and poetic songwriting. HEAT is Alix’s first time performing multiple original works to an audience, including her only released song, Ladder, a slow and methodical ballad with layered, haunting vocals.

Cost: R200 per person. Book tickets for HEAT on Quicket.

When: Thursday, 13 August 2026 | 6.30pm – 10pm
Where: The H.U.B Gallery, 155 Loop St, Gardens, Cape Town

Growthpoint SA Squash Nationals

Bringing together some of the best young talent in South African squash, this free-to-watch tournament offers visitors the chance to watch elite skill and athleticism in an under-discussed sport. With games across age groups and genders, Cape Town’s premier squash event offers a diverse range of play, played in an all-glass court that keeps the viewing tense and entertaining.

Winners of each bracket go on to represent South Africa at international tournaments, making it a high-stakes competition to crown the best local squash talent.

The glass court format allows spectators to watch the match from all four sides, offering a close-up view without obstruction. Entry is free throughout the tournament. The main competition rounds and finals take place from 20 to 22 August.

When: 13 – 22 August 2026
Where: Makers Landing, Pierhead District (The Cruise Terminal), Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, Cape Town

Zeitz MOCAA: Staying with SALA

Inspired by Zeitz’s permanent exhibition, this workshop starts with a guided walkthrough of SALA, led by the museum’s curatorial team, before participants take part in a creative reflection exercise. Drawing on scholar Tina Campt’s invitation to “write to the artwork”, participants create their connection between two artworks with their own point of reference – a song, film, memory, place, personal experience, or another artwork.

Finally, the workshop concludes with an informal group discussion reflecting on Zeitz itself: who is the museum for, how do museums shape the way we see the world, and how can engaging with art influence our futures?

Cost: R287 per person. Book now on Quicket.

When: Wednesday, 12 August 2026 | 5.30pm – 7pm
Where: Zeitz MOCAA, S Arm Rd, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, Cape Town

Date Night: Curiosity Cat Café

A key part of winning over any cat lover is taking them on a date to Curiosity Cat Cafe, which allows guests to enjoy a refreshing cup of coffee or tea and gaze out at the idyllic Noordhoek beach, all while being surrounded by fluffy, cuddly, playful kittens. All cafe cats are hypoallergenic, and guests are encouraged to play with, cuddle, and take pictures of these furry Siberians. There are savoury tarts and sweet pastries for sale, and sessions can be held indoors or outdoors depending on the weather.

Visits are limited to a max capacity of 10, ensuring everyone’s experience is calm and intimate. Guests are encouraged to wear soft-sole shoes or sneakers.

Cost: R390 per person. Bookings are essential & made on the website.

When: Thursday to Saturday | From 10am
Where: Noordhoek, Cape Town | Exact address is given on order confirmation.

Need recommendations for Date Night? Check out our guide

Wren Hinds Band & Francesca Biancoli

Known for his unique vocal quality supported by guitar-heavy indie, folk, and alternative textures, Wren Hinds‘ 2023 album Don’t Die In The Bundu brought South African music to the international stage through its release via Bella Union (home to famous artists Fleet Foxes, Beach House, and Father John Misty). On the night, he performs alongside Jonno Sweetman on drums, Dylan Fine on electric guitar, and Maurice Paliaga on bass.

Recently performing at the Cape Town International Jazz Festival as part of the Jazz Rising programme, Francesca Biancoli is a versatile singer-songwriter who very recently collaborated with famous jazz pianist Nduduzo Makhathini, and has been releasing music for over a decade.

Cost: R200 per person. Book for HEAT now on Quicket.

When: Friday, 14 August 2026 | 7pm – 10pm
Where: The H.U.B Gallery, 155 Loop St, Gardens, Cape Town

Flow Lab Friday

This group wellness exercise goes beyond vinyasa and traditional yoga, anchoring a flow-and-movement experience with calming music. The instructors encourage experimentation and playfulness, allowing every attendee to do what feels right within their own body, before ending with a scented savasana.

Everyone is given a complimentary warm, post-yoga drink to enjoy while socialising with the rest of the group before moving on with their own evening plans. The class is led by Tshiamo Mangwedi, a 500-hour certified vinyasa yoga teacher based in Cape Town.

Cost: R250 per person | R400 for two (Flow with a Friend). Book now on Quicket.

When: Friday, 14 August 2026 | 6pm – 7pm
Where: Habitus Wellness, 61 Loop St, Cape Town City Centre

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

Affordable Activities: Fives Futbol

With the excitement of the World Cup done, there’s no better time for amateurs to try out their skills in social football games on small courts. With matches usually limited to five players per team, Fives Futbol doesn’t require massive groups to kick off, with a social game between friends a great way to have fun while getting some much-needed cardio.

There are Fives Futbol locations all across Cape Town, most notably City Centre, Table View, Pinehurst (near Durbanville), Century City, Athlone, and Strand. Each court comes with its own level of facilities, with some having kickboards, outs, and various net sizes – some even having the option for participants to hire a referee for the session.

Cost: From R40 per person (R400 for full court hire for 1 hour). Book now on the website.

When: Monday – Sunday | 9am – 10pm | 9am – 11pm (weekends) | Time slots vary by location
Where: 35 Keerweder St, Foreshore (Grand Central) | Maynard Mall, Wynberg | Bayside Mall, Table View | cnr Pinehurst Drive & Sirocco Dr, Pinehurst, Cape Town

Affordable activities & cheap outings in Cape Town

Super Disko

27 floors high with panoramic views of the Mother City, this Friday party features three Cape Town DJ crews in a scenic location and one big dance floor for everyone to get down to the disco all night long. With headliners including Johannesburg DJ Sanetran, Private Life, Disco de Moda, and special guest Broaden A New Sound System, the event promises an inviting atmosphere that’s all about the music.

Cost: From R120 (pre-sale). Book now on Quicket.

When: Saturday, 15 August 2026 | 7pm – 2am
Where: Hotel Sky (Floor 27), 9 Lower Long St, Foreshore, Cape Town

The Craft Social

This creative evening invites those of all skill levels to meet, socialise, and create something of their own. Attendees can choose from a variety of craft projects (with materials and guidance included) or bring their own passion project, and each ticket includes a complimentary beverage.

The craft menu includes junk journalling, making button hair clips, painting tote bags, painting candles, decorating book pouches, and making bag charms.

Cost: From R20 per person (entrance only, pick craft on arrival) | R120 (bringing own craft). Book now on Quicket.

When: Saturday, 15 August 2026 | 2pm – 5pm
Where: Moosh Artspace, Buchanan Square, 160 Sir Lowry Rd, Woodstock, Cape Town

Winter Flames: July at ROOI Grillroom

To celebrate the cold-weather season in Cape Town, ROOI is serving up an exclusive experience that continues its tradition of using local ingredients and sustainably sourced seafood. The four-course event starts with a creamy cauliflower soup garnished with toasted granola and parmesan, before moving on to a creative rooikrans-charred butternut barley with pickled butternut and smoked duck breast.

For the main course, guests can choose among three options, catering to meat-lovers, vegans, and pescatarians. The big attraction is a prime rump steak, cooked on a premium Josper grill, fennel-spiced grilled kingklip, or a gourmet charred cabbage dish featuring white bean purée, toasted cashews, harissa dressing, and roasted grape salsa.

Finally, dessert is a sticky date, pecan, and walnut crumble with vanilla bean ice cream and chilli toffee sauce, finishing the night off on a warm, nutty note – a suitable ending for a winter dinner experience.

Cost: R695 per person. Book now by contacting [email protected] or 021 431 5888.

When: Daily | 6pm – 10pm | Offer available until 31 August 2026.
Where: ROOI, One & Only Cape Town, Dock Rd, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, Cape Town

Essay on Dying

In this incredibly intimate piece, acclaimed theatre director Boris Nikitin dives into the death of his father from ALS, the moral quandary of assisted suicide, and his coming out as a gay man 20 years ago.

Nikitin flouts the traditional boundaries of theatre and audience with this utterly personal narrative, asking what it means to make oneself vulnerable, the price one pays, and what can be gained from revealing oneself to others. After the show, audiences are encouraged to speak directly with Nikitin and give their answers to the questions the piece poses.

Cost: R150 per person. Book now on Quicket.

When: Friday & Saturday, 14 & 15 August 2026 | 6pm – 7.15pm | 8pm – 9pm
Where: Waterfront Theatre School, cnr Port Rd & Stanley St, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town

Mavericks Revue Bar: Late-night Dining, Drinks, and Entertainment

Long established as the city’s most iconic adult entertainment experience, Mavericks Revue Bar delivers exciting, world-class performances, great food and a lively buzz for locals and visitors alike. Mavericks serves a full, restaurant-quality menu long after most kitchens in Cape Town have closed.

Guests can enjoy steaks, Wagyu burgers, sushi, and sharing platters—far beyond the usual late-night fast-food options. Top DJs play every night, keeping the energy high from open to close. From cocktails and champagne to whiskey and shooters, the bar menu fits right in with the city’s top nightlife venues. A fully stocked humidor with premium Cuban cigars adds a luxurious touch.

Cost: R100 (general access entry) | R400 (additional for VIP) | R1000 (VVIP entry). Booking ahead of time is recommended, especially for weekends and special events. Reserve via Dineplan.

When: Monday – Saturday | 7pm – 4am
Where: 68 Barrack Street, Cape Town City Centre

The Odyssey

The Odyssey is award-winning director Christopher Nolan’s (Interstellar, The Dark Knight, Oppenheimer) latest blockbuster epic. The movie features an unbelievable A-list cast including Matt Damon, Tom Holland, Zendaya, Robert Pattinson, Elliot Page, Anne Hathaway, Mia Goth, Lupita Nyong’o, Charlize Theron and more.

The film follows the Greek hero Odysseus after the Trojan War, as he faces a dangerous 10-year voyage back to Ithaca, meeting creatures like the cyclops Polyphemus, Sirens, and Circe along the way.

The mythic action epic has been shot around the world using brand-new IMAX film technology. The movie brings Homer’s foundational saga to IMAX film screens for the first time and opens in theatres everywhere.

When: The Odyssey opens in theatres on Friday, 17 July 2026
Where to watch: Set to be released in IMAX & Ster-Kinekor cinemas nationwide

Quirky & Cosy Coffee Shops: Mantra Café

Those who prefer ocean views, even in the winter, should enjoy Mantra Café in Camps Bay. The atmosphere is quieter and the ambience more intimate, making for a more refined dining experience than a more traditional coffee shop.

With a direct line of sight on the setting sun, they’re one of the few cafés that stay open for dinner, making them a good option for an evening bite. During this time, the menu consists of local seafood favourites, including locally sourced linefish, fresh West Coast mussels, and a hake romesco, alongside steaks and aubergine parmigiana. Breakfast is everything from Matcha & almond milk soaked chia bowls to sourdough sandwiches, while their drinks offering includes Nutella hot chocolate and plenty of fresh-pressed juices.

Reservations can be made on the website.

When: Monday – Sunday | 8.30am – 11:30am (breakfast) | 12pm – late (dinner)
Where: 43 Victoria Road, Camps Bay, Cape Town

Find your new favourite coffee spot to keep warm this winter

Comedy in Common

Bringing a sense of levity to the HEAT Festival lineup, the Comedy in Common series gives a platform to many of the Mother City’s most in-demand comic talent. One of two Comedy in Common Shows, the midweek show is headlined by veteran Cape Town comic Stuart Taylor.

Hosted by Cape Town comedy mainstay Yaseen Barnes, he is supported by fellow performers Lindy Johnson, Khanyisile Ngwenya, Zachary Esau, and SQ Mangcu.

Cost: R120 per person. Book now on Quicket.

When: Saturday, 15 August 2026 | 7.30pm – 9.30pm
Where: Union House (Spier Arts), 25 Commercial St, Cape Town City Centre

MTN Shift Gaming (CapeGate)

The MTN SHIFT Gaming Experience is the largest national mall-based gaming tournament ever held in the country, and all ages are welcome to join the competitions and win prizes for free. 

Each in-mall weekend features the extremely competitive EAFC 26™ tournament, daily Fighting Cups (Tekken, Street Fighter & Brawlhalla), a keyboard rebuild race, a rhythmic MTN Beat Saber challenge, and a Shift Fastest Lap tournament in F1 26. The winners of each competition can get up to R1000 in shopping centre gift cards. More information is available on the website.

When: 14 – 16 August 2026 | From 3pm (Fri) | From 9.30am (Sat & Sun)
Where: CapeGate Shopping Centre (Centre Court), cnr Okavango Rd & De Bron Rd, Brackenfell, Cape Town

Canopy by Hilton

Canopy by Hilton Cape Town is located in one of Cape Town’s biggest cultural hubs, just off Kloof Street. The hotel features over 150 rooms, swapping the usual monochrome flatlet for ones with vibrant artworks and big windows for natural light, reflecting the city’s creative energy. The furniture and design throughout the hotel proudly support local makers and culture, with Cape Town’s talented artisans working on many of the sculptures, installations, and prints found in each room.

Book a stay using the website.

Where: Canopy by Hilton Cape Town Longkloof, Park Rd, Gardens, Cape Town

Emerging Artists Showcase

Curated by KAYA is once again using their platform to give Cape Town’s rising stars and up-and-coming talent the ability to perform and show what they’re made of. An intimate evening with a diverse group of artists, all of whom started getting recognition through KAYA’s Open Mic Nights, it’s a rare opportunity for everyone involved to prove that they’re ready for the next step in Cape Town’s live music scene.

The lineup includes soulful singer-songwriter Nakishka, versatile rapper 11Flows, Hip-Hop storyteller Lwande, and folk-rock singer and guitarist Blue.

Cost: R90 per person. Book now on Fixr.

When: Friday, 14 August 2026 | From 7pm
Where: KAYA HQ, 35 Loop St, Cape Town, South Africa

The Ember Table at Siyalima

This August, Siyalima invites guests to gather around The Ember Table for a seasonal three-course dining experience inspired by the bold, smoky flavours of fire cooking and paired with Hazendal’s award-winning wines.

The experience begins with Confit Kingklip, served with chargrilled leeks, marinated peppers, smoked fish velouté and charcoal oil, paired with Bottelary Hills Sauvignon Blanc. The main course includes chargrilled dry-aged Denver steak with a nori crust, parsnip cream, confit shallot, spinach, grilled mushrooms and truffle jus, complemented by Bottelary Hills’ cool and polished Syrah.

Finally, the evening concludes with banana-rum cake, charred pineapple and burned oak ice cream, paired with the Estate Collection White Blend.

Cost: R495 per person. Bookings for August’s Ember Table can be made via Dineplan.

When: Tuesday – Sunday; 12pm – 4pm (lunch) | Tuesday – Saturday; 5.30pm – 8pm (dinner)
Where: Bottelary Road, new entrance from Ronelle Street via Kruis St, Stellenbosch

The Forest

The Forest is an interactive dance performance by Prestige School of Dance, winner of an Ovation Award at the 2025 National Arts Festival. The production is inspired by Forest Song, a 1911 dramatic poem by Ukrainian writer Lesya Ukrainka (1871–1913), one of Ukraine’s most celebrated literary figures. Her work draws on Ukrainian folk mythology and depicts the boundary between the spirit world of the forest and the human world, a tension that structures the dance production’s narrative.

The performance blends Amapiano dance with Ukrainian folk movement traditions and immersive animation, creating a theatrical environment that moves between the natural world of forest spirits and human experience. Children are invited to participate actively or to observe, meaning each performance takes a different shape depending on the audience. Supported by ASSITEJ SA, the South African branch of the International Association of Theatre and Performing Arts for Children and Young People, the production is designed for families and younger audiences.

Cost: R85 – R150 per person. Book now on Webtickets.

When: 31 July – 15 August 2026 | 10.30am | 12pm | 2.30pm
Where: Pam Golding Theatre, Baxter Theatre Centre, Main Road, Rondebosch, Cape Town

The Foreign Familiar at Mount Nelson

This exhibition, co-curated by Thebe Magugu and Julia Buchanan, delves into the history of colonial exchange and how its objects, images, and systems transform over time. With a combination of fine art and fashion, these works examine how forms derived from empire are absorbed and reshaped in a Southern African context.

A collaborative sculpture between Magugu and Mary Sibande merges Victorian silhouettes with Basotho blanket textiles, while Sibande’s accompanying works on paper further explore themes of leisure, imagination and Black interiority.

Other works by Wim Botha distort the visual language of Western art history through fragmented sculptures, while Magugu’s Mafeteng capsule collection is inspired by the iconic Basotho blanket and its layered history of cultural reclamation after colonial exchange.

When: Tuesday – Saturday | 10am – 6pm | On show until 27 August 2026
Where: Mount Nelson, 76 Orange St, Gardens, Cape Town

Bookshops in Cape Town: The Book Lounge

Nestled between District 6 and the bustling City Centre, The Book Lounge is one of the premier bookstores in Cape Town, with massive shelves stacked to the top and a cosy seating area for cracking open a new novel in peace and quiet. They frequently hold talks and panel discussions with local authors, unpacking their works while indulging in glasses from their dedicated wine sponsors. Each staff member’s curated picks and recommendations are readily available on the website, making it easy to find new favourites online.

Their main attraction is their diverse range of South African literature, including brand-new best-sellers from rising authors across various genres. Whether fiction or nonfiction, shoppers can browse a selection of Afrikaans and isiXhosa books. Those wanting a bookstore that champions diversity and progressive politics can find that here, with sections dedicated to LGBTQ+ pride, Palestinian literature, and feminist fiction.

More information is available on the website.

When: Monday – Sunday | 9am – 5pm | 9.30am – 5pm (Sat) | 10am – 5pm (Sun)
Where: cnr Buitenkant & 71 Roeland St, Cape Town City Centre

Find new favourites with these bookstores in and around Cape Town

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.

Where: Two Oceans Aquarium, Dock Rd, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town
Opening times: Monday – Sunday | 9am – 6pm

Ster-Kinekor

Ster-Kinekor has a long list of blockbusters and family-friendly favourites for young ones to catch on the big screen. Toy Story 5, Minions & Monsters, and Moana, all highly anticipated releases, are in cinemas throughout this period.

At select Ster-Kinekor cinemas across the country, including Blue Route Mall, the V&A Waterfront, and Cape Gate Shopping Centre, these sought-after children’s films can be watched in the vibrant Kids’ Cinemas, which are specifically designed to enhance the movie magic for younger audiences. With colourful seats, slides, and a ball pool, the Kids’ Cinemas are good for keeping kids engaged as they watch the latest releases.

For families who like a trip down memory lane, Ster-Kinekor’s Throwback Cinema promotion brings back some classic family favourites to the big screen, with heavily discounted tickets at just R50 per person.

Tickets for all films screening at SK cinemas can be booked using the website.

Watch the winter’s biggest blockbusters at Ster-Kinekor

HYROX After Party

All athletes, supporters, family, and friends can join this groovy post-race celebration with ocean views at Cabo Beach Club. Virgin Active is kicking off the 26/27 HYROX season on Friday, with many of the Mother City’s champion athletes going to commemorate the day with some dancing, lounging, and dining at the Waterfront spot.

The line-up includes some of Cape Town’s biggest DJs, including Dwson, Ryan the DJ, Waggy, Kixi, Gremlin, and Crispian, all making their own mark at the event with a diverse soundscape.

Cost: R300 per person. Book now on Howler.

When: Sunday, 16 August 2026 | 3pm – late
Where: Cabo Beach Club, 12 S Arm Rd, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town

Future Found Sanctuary

Set on a private mountainside estate in Hout Bay, Future Found Sanctuary invites guests to slow down and experience Cape Town differently. Spend your days exploring nearby hiking trails, enjoying seasonal dining, unwinding at the Sensorium Spa or discovering the renowned Constantia Winelands, before returning to beautifully designed accommodation surrounded by nature.

This August, make the most of the South African Residents Stay 2 & Save 10% offer or create unforgettable family memories with the Family Experience Package, featuring a complimentary suite upgrade, a family meal and a cosy movie night.

The offers are available until 31 August 2026, making it the perfect opportunity to discover one of Cape Town’s most exceptional luxury stays. Bookings can be made via the website.

Where: 10 Hunters Way, Hout Bay, Cape Town

Stay, Sip & Settle In

With winter well and truly here, the Rockefeller has a dedicated package for the wine lovers in the city. Guests can upgrade to a city-facing room with a complimentary upgrade (subject to availability) before spending their evenings dining on a specially curated dinner and a glass of Franschhoek Cellars’ award-winning wine.

Cost: From R2300 per night (double occupancy). Book now on the website.

When: Available until 31 August 2026
Where: The Rockefeller Hotel, 12 Christiaan Barnard St, Foreshore, Cape Town

Zanele Muholi Returns to SA

Durban-born multimedia artist and creative Zanele Muholi is bringing an exhibition back home after years of teaching and exhibiting across the globe, making its South African debut at Southern Guild in the V&A Waterfront.

Kanye Nawe was a major attraction while exhibiting overseas, even winning the 2026 Hasselblad Award, widely considered the most prestigious international photography prize. Muholi sees the exhibition as an educational experience that shows the importance of caring for others, regardless of race, gender, or sexuality, and of passing that understanding on to future generations.

After years of their work being exhibited abroad, Kanye Nawe finally gives South Africans the chance to experience Muholi’s boundary-pushing, multimedia artworks that centre black queer experiences, celebrate visibility and intimacy, and confront violence and erasure.

The exhibition is free for all to visit and experience. More information is available on the Southern Guild website.

When: 18 July – 10 September 2026 | 9am – 5.30pm | Closed on Sat & Sun
Where: Southern Guild, Silo 5, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town

Where to watch Banyana Banyana: The Scrumpy Jack

After a disappointing exit to Morocco in the WAFCON, Banyana Banyana have the chance to make fans proud and qualify for the upcoming Women’s World Cup, with the first match against Nigeria this Thursday, 13 August 2026.

For a social watch of the game, truly dedicated football fans are sure to enjoy The Scrumpy Jack’s tangible passion for the beautiful game. The walls are lined with sports jerseys, there are multiple TVs strewn throughout the venue, they sell affordable drinks, and they are open late throughout the week.

With a welcoming atmosphere for newcomers and regulars, and finding itself just off the always-busy Lower Main Road, it’s an ideal spot for watching Banyana Banyana.

More information is available on the website.

When: Monday – Sunday | 10am – 12am
Where: 45 Trill Road, Observatory, Cape Town

Have a drink & watch the biggest games at Cape Town’s sports bars