How To Celebrate Women’s Day in Cape Town

One of the most important public holidays of the year, National Women’s Day brings everyone from across the country together to celebrate the important women in our lives. From high teas to wellness talks and special live concerts, these are our recommendations for the most exciting events happening in celebration of Women’s Day.

Rose Mandala Breath Experience

This Women’s Day, conscious awareness organisation Manifest Productions invites 100 women to attend an intimate, guided breathwork class to relax and restore their minds on a celebratory day.

Designed to honour all kinds of women — leaders, mothers, creatives, and more — the Breath Experience starts with each woman contributing a single rose to the Rose Mandala altar, building a communal symbol in the heart of the room. Everyone is split into pairs, fostering a deeper sense of connection among the women as the event progresses throughout the morning.

The conscious exercise follows the stages of Soften, Release, and Integration & Return, with each breath helping regulate the nervous system and reduce stress. The journey is designed to take participants “beyond the thinking mind and into the deeper wisdom of the body”, while simultaneously pairing this with relational practices to build intimacy and safety within the group.

The event is primarily complimentary and offered by invitation, with only 100 women participating. A limited number of public tickets will be made available.

Women interested in attending can register their interest and join the waitlist on Quicket before the deadline on 3 August.

When: 9 August 2026 | 10.30am – 1.30pm | Doors open from 10am
Where: Rooftop on Bree, 170 Bree St, Cape Town City Centre

Totalsports Women’s Race

This annual Women’s Day celebration sees a sea of pink shirts run or walk either a 5km or 10km in solidarity with all women: mothers, aunts, sisters, and daughters alike. In line with its inclusive message and atmosphere, runners can enter in groups and go at their preferred pace.

The route begins in Darling Street in District 6 and ends at the Grand Parade Centre near the middle of town. Normal entries have closed; only those with valid vouchers can still register to join the country’s largest Nationwide Women’s Day Celebration.

Cost: R155 (10km) | R120 (5km) | R60 (Temp License). Normal entries are now closed, only those with a voucher code can still sign up. Registrations via Onreg.

When: 9 August 2026 | 8am (10km) | 8.30am (5km)
Where: Darling Street, District 6

Feastival Women’s Day Celebration

Feastival is back with their annual Women’s Day edition, hosted at the refined Cabo Beach Club with its oceanic views and tropical atmosphere.

Guests can experience Feastival’s most diverse event yet, including DJs, karaoke, sip & paint, gaming, cinema, award-winning chefs, a casino room, a secret dance floor, and more. Once again, Mi Casa are the musical headliners, bringing their array of hits like Jika and Turn You On, while the vibrant and social food truck market is one of the main attractions for those wanting to enjoy local food.

Cost: From R400 per person | R5000 (5 tickets + VIP table). Tickets available on Howler.

When: Saturday, 8 August 2026 | 6pm – 2am
Where: Cabo Beach Club, 12 S Arm Rd, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town

Simon’s Bay Mile – Women’s Day Swim

Returning for its sixth year, the Simon’s Bay Mile is an annual women-only swim that brings together women, young and old, to share their love of open water swimming and the ocean on Women’s Day. Swimmers start at Long Beach for a one-mile looped course of Simon’s Bay against the scenic backdrop of mountains and South African Navy ships. Along the way, the kelp forests of Simon’s Bay offer swimmers brief glimpses of marine life beneath the water, and swimmers are encouraged by friends and family on the beach.

Swimmers can compete in either a swimming costume or a wetsuit and must wear a brightly coloured swim cap of either pink, yellow, green, red, or orange. Each swimmer receives a surprise gift at registration, while participants under 18 and over 65 receive an extra little reward. The top five overall swimmers receive cash prizes, while there are additional categories for those in skins, wetsuits, and more.

Swimmers under 13 may only enter if they have, at minimum, a Lifesaving South Africa Level 2 Nipper Award.

Cost: R320 per person. Book via Entryninja.

When: Sunday, 9 August 2026 | 8.40am (u18) | 9am (Open)
Where: Starts and finishes at Simon’s Town Waterfront, False Bay

WILD! Women’s Day Burlesque Show

WILD! is a sensual, theatrical celebration of femininity, empowerment, and the art of burlesque this Women’s Day. After selling out in 2025, the sensual show is back, with a talented lineup of burlesque performers who entice, subvert expectations, and express themselves through bold performances that take up space in every way.

With the trendy Our Local as the backdrop, guests can enjoy one of the most extensive menus among the city’s popular cafes before the show starts, with dedicated breakfast, brunch, and lunch options. The performance is for everyone, regardless of gender or orientation, and no racism, sexism, ableism, xenophobia, homophobia or transphobia is tolerated.

Cost: From R280. Tickets available on Quicket.

When: Sunday, 9 August 2026 | 7pm – 10pm
Where: Our Local, 117 Kloof St, Gardens, 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

Carmién Tea Interactive Lunch Experience

The all-in-one tea brand is hosting a special Women’s Day event, combining health and wellness with fine dining for an early celebration of Women’s Day. With rooibos as the special focus, MasterChef South Africa winner Kamini Pather and former food editor for Huisgenoot and You are serving a set of acclaimed dishes and drinks, while simultaneously tackling important women’s health issues.

They are joined by Dr Ledivia Strauss, a health practitioner with a special interest in hormonal health, gut health, and wellbeing, leading the way on all-inclusive discussions of balancing hormones and nutrition to perimenopause. Every guest gets to ask pivotal health and wellness questions and spend time with dedicated professionals, all while enjoying welcome drinks and good food along the way.

Cost: From R500 per person. Book now on Quicket.

When: Saturday, 1 August 2026 | 11am – 2.30pm
Where: Food Jams, 45 Yew St, Salt River, Cape Town

The Hilarious Deep Amazing Comedy Show

South African comedy star Gilli Apter finally brings her internationally touring stand-up show to Cape Town, after selling out in Johannesburg for over two years. The show keeps up with the times, as Apter discusses everything from AI and Botox to ADHD and local politics, all in one limited run in the Mother City.

Starting out at open mics in her native Johannesburg, Gilli Apter has become one of the most influential voices in South African comedy, with The Hilarious Deep Amazing Comedy Show playing to sold-out rooms in some of the biggest cities in the world, including London, Sydney, Amsterdam, Madrid, and more. Those who want a glimpse at her relatable stories can find her stand-up special, Only Jokes Allowed, available on Netflix, and her appearance on Trevor Noah’s Nationwild, to see her work before going to the live show.

The special Women’s Day show features Apter alongside other local comics for an evening of celebrating life as a woman in your forties. The lineup is TBD.

Cost: From R240 per person. Book now on Quicket.

When: 7 – 9 August 2026 | 8pm – 9.30pm | 6pm – 7.30pm (Sun only)
Where: Homecoming Centre (Avalon Auditorium), 15 Buitenkant St, District Six, Cape Town

TLC Women’s Day Brunch

Women of all ages can join this variety event meant to connect women from across generations, under the theme “Still Becoming”. Attendees can expect inspiring speeches from multiple guest speakers, auction and raffle prizes, a Silent Disco activation, an elegant brunch experience, and the opportunity to make new friends and hear their stories in an inclusive space overlooking the ocean.

For the women who want to discuss important women’s topics, enjoy some food, and stand a chance to win exciting prizes, the TLC Women’s Day Brunch is dedicated to creating a warm and inviting platform.

Cost: R395 per person. Book now on Quicket.

When: Saturday, 8 August 2026 | 9am – 12pm
Where: Blaauwberg Beach Hotel, 106 Beach Blvd, Bloubergstrand, Cape Town

Pretty Loud Presents Women’s Day

To celebrate the women in Cape Town’s thriving music scene, Pretty Loud is bringing together some of the most dynamic up-and-coming musicians to perform a varied live show at an intimate acoustic venue known for platforming emerging talent.

The event’s headliners include powerful singer-songwriter Keely Crocker, award-winning and genre-defying guitarist Grace De La Hunt, SAMA-nominated punk musician Mila Smith, and Amy Tjasink, known for her recent #1 single, Feels Like Mzansi.

Pretty Loud is one of South Africa’s fastest-growing music communities, led by and dedicated to creating opportunities for women by organising events, helping young artists with networking, and developing them into the next generation of popular musicians in the country.

Cost: R180 per person. Book now on Quicket.

When: Saturday, 8 August 2026 | 6pm – 9.30pm
Where: Cafe Roux, Chapmans Peak Dr, Noordhoek, Cape Town

Iziko Museums of South Africa

In honour of Women’s Day, Iziko is hosting a full-day festival with a range of activities and experiences for women to enjoy. The day starts with a Women’s Wellness Experience guided by yoga instructor Meghan Pietersen, with guests participating in self-care in the calming Company Gardens. Registration is free.

The afternoon activity sees a panel of inspiring women, including social justice advocate Professor Thuli Madonsela, feminist entrepreneur Babalwa Mbuku, RSG radio producer Martelize Brink, Good Hope FM’s Leigh-Anne Williams, and television personality Thembisa Mdoda-Nxumalo, discuss important women’s topics in an extensive long table dialogue. The conversation focuses on leadership and innovation, and how women can shape South Africa’s future. Tickets are R350 per person on Webtickets.

Finally, the night ends with a Musical Tribute to Women, with soul and jazz musicians taking over the Iziko Town House in Greenmarket Square. The evening is headlined by award-winning soul artist Brian Themba, alongside Qaqamba, Sama Yoyo and the Nala Collective Jazz Ensemble, acting as the final celebration of womanhood on the historic day. Tickets are R350 per person on Webtickets.

Cost: R700 per person (full-day admission, all-inclusive). Book now on Webtickets.

When: Saturday, 8 August 2026 | 9am – 10.30am (Women’s Wellness) | 12pm – 3pm (Long Table Dialogue) | 6pm – 9pm (Musical Tribute)
Where: The Company’s Garden Lawn, 12 Government Ave, Cape Town City Centre (Women’s Wellness) | Iziko South African Museum, 25 Queen Victoria St, Gardens, Cape Town (Long Table Dialogue) | Old Town House, 149 Longmarket St, Cape Town City Centre (Musical Tribute)

Erinvale High Tea

With picturesque views of the Helderberg, Erinvale is offering women the opportunity to indulge in a thoughtfully curated high tea experience that goes above and beyond regular dining. Guests are welcomed into a special Pamper Lounge and treated to a complimentary hand or shoulder massage before tucking into sweet and savoury treats, fine teas, and freshly brewed coffee.

Menu highlights include smoked trout roulades, BLT oopsies and chicken liver parfait, freshly baked scones, and peppermint crisp macarons, while professional violinist Karel Landman gives the afternoon a calming soundtrack. The meal is complemented by a specially curated Ginologist pairing, with alcohol-free alternatives available for those who don’t drink.

Finally, every attendee receives a surprise gift courtesy of Erinvale Spa.

Cost: R550 per person (all-inclusive). Reservations can be made by contacting [email protected] or calling +27 21 847 1160.

When: Sunday, 9 August 2026 | 11am – 3pm
Where: Bloom Restaurant, 1 Erinvale Ave, Somerset West, Cape Town

Zeitz Women’s Day Workshop

Inspired by the work of Cauleen Smith, creator of the Afflict the Comfortable, Comfort the Afflicted exhibition, Zeitz MOCAA invites women to join for an afternoon of art, tea, and bubbles. The main attraction is an ikebana experience, a Japanese technique of flower arranging that focuses on minimalism, asymmetry, and calming the artist.

More details are soon to follow.

When: Saturday, 8 August 2026 | 10am – 6pm
Where: Zeitz MOCAA, S Arm Rd, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, Cape Town

Maxwell

Multi-award-winning American R&B and neo-soul icon Maxwell brings his sultry, smooth vocals to GrandWest on the Women’s Day long weekend, 30 years after his debut album.

Known for beloved ballads like This Woman’s Work, Pretty Wings, and Sumthin’, Sumthin‘, Maxwell has won 3 Grammy Awards, 6 Soul Train Awards, and 2 NAACP awards – putting him firmly in legendary status as part of R&B and soul history.

Listeners are set to be treated to his signature smooth vocals, energetic stage presence, and a crowd fully in sync with every note.

Cost: From R1250 per person. Book via Webtickets or at Pick’n Pay stores nationwide.

When: Tuesday, 11 August 2026 | From 4pm
Where: GrandWest, Grand Arena, 1 Jakes Gerwel Dr, Acacia Park, Cape Town

Afternoon Tea at the Nellie

Arguably the Mount Nelson’s most sought-after service, their Afternoon Tea is a favourite for birthdays, post-graduation ceremonies, and any other big event that deserves an indulgent, luxury celebration. It offers over 60 fine, loose-leaf teas for those wanting an authentic experience, single-origin coffee from Ethiopia and Rwanda for the more adventurous, and sweet treats made by their acclaimed, dedicated pastry chef.

The food includes fine cakes and finger sandwiches, delicately arranged in tiers, with live piano music further enhancing the laid-back afternoon atmosphere. The savoury menus change seasonally, although there are dedicated options for vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free guests. Nellie, the hotel house cat, is also known to make appearances during this time, particularly when the sun is out.

To book a spot at Afternoon Tea, please contact via email ([email protected]) or book via Dineplan.
When: Monday – Sunday | 11am – 3pm

Book a spot at one of these lavish High Tea experiences

TANG Women’s Day

This refined annual event brings together fine-dining, contemporary fashion, and luxury drinks into one all-encompassing evening. At this year’s edition, acclaimed South African designer Elrico Zarr is debuting his Women’s Month collection, inspired by and dedicated to his wife, Ritza Bellingan.

Professional models show off the new line, as guests indulge in a classic TANG Izakaya-style lunch that takes a modern approach to Japanese seafood dining. Guests are welcomed with a glass of Moët & Chandon, and the day also features a limited-time NARS beauty activation alongside luxury fragrance gifts for each guest from Issey Miyake and Narciso Rodriguez.

Cost: R900 per person. Reservations can be made on Dineplan or via +27 76 652 8972 or [email protected]

When: Monday, 10 August 2026 | 12pm – 4pm
Where: TANG (V&A Waterfront), 19 Breakwater Blvd, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, 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: 15 August 2026 | 9am – 6pm
Where: Premier Hotel Cape Town, 1 Marais Rd, Sea Point, Cape Town

Wathint’ Abafazi

This femme-dominated all-day music festival brings together a day market, bring-and-braai, and live acoustic music to Trenchtown. Attendees can expect acoustic performances from some of the city’s up-and-coming artists, including Day Creature, Mbali Rose, and Kelsey Maggott, among others. In the evening, the energy switches to Cape Town’s underground bands, with performances from Fake Blonde Mom, Cistamatic, and more.

The event is open to families throughout the afternoon, but becomes strictly 18+ from 7pm onwards. All profits raised go to Rape Crisis Cape Town to help combat gender-based violence and femicide and support survivors in their recovery.

Cost: From R150 per adult | R50 per kid (ages 5-12). Book now on Quicket.

When: Saturday, 8 August 2026 | 1pm – 12am
Where: Trenchtown, 143 Lower Main Rd, Observatory, Cape Town