There is so much going on in South Africa’s Mother City this weekend and everyone is invited to join the fun. Whether you wish to enjoy a multi-day racing event, see an awesome live music show, or attend a festive community event, there is something for everyone. Without further ado, here is my guide to the best events in Cape Town this weekend.
1 Cape Town Jazzathon (January 9-12)
Celebrating its 23rd birthday, the Cape Town Jazzathon is one of the most anticipated music events in Cape Town this January. The festival is taking place at the beautiful V&A Waterfront and features 4 days of live music. The line-up includes names like Jonathan Rubain, Cameron Ward, Judith Sephuma, Selaelo Selota, Allou April, FreshlyGround, Jimmy Dludlu, Mark Fransman, and many others. The entrance to this fabulous festival is free of charge.
Venue: V&A Waterfront, Breakwater Blvd, Cape Town
2 Cape Town Lantern Parade (January 11)
Welcome to the first edition of the Cape Town Lantern Parade which starts at the Sea Point Pavilion Swimming Pool on Lower Beach Road and ends at Mouille Point Beach on Beach Road. Get ready to snap some cool photos of the promenade which will be illuminated with a variety of handcrafted lanterns.
Venue: Sea Point Pavilion Swimming Pool, Lower Beach Rd, Sea Point; to Mouille Point Beach, Beach Rd
3 Mi Casa: Kirstenbosch Summer Sunset Concert (January 12)
If you wish to listen to a rocking band this weekend, we have just the right event for you. A band with 8 sold-out shows at the previous Kirstenbosch Summer Concerts doesn’t need much of an introduction. Head out to the Kirstenbosch Gardens this Sunday to see the popular South African trio, Mi Casa. The band is known for their deep soulful grooves and outstanding live music performance.
Venue: Kirstenbosch Gardens, Rhodes Dr, Newlands, Cape Town
4 L’Ormarins Queen’s Plate Racing Festival
If you are looking for unique things to do in Cape Town this January, I recommend paying a visit to the Kenilworth Racecourse where you can try tasty food and wine and enjoy horse racing. This year’s dress code is blue and white and L’Ormarins decided to give a grand prize of a trip for two to the Qatar Glorious Goodwood Racing Festival Saturday’s Best Dressed couple. If you are visiting on Friday, the best-dressed lady and gentleman award includes Cartier spoils.
Venue: Kenilworth Racecourse, 105 Rosmead Ave, Kenilworth, Cape Town
Recommended Accommodation
5 How to End Racism Chester Missing (January 11-18)
Conrad Koch and his puppet Chester present their How to End Racism show at the Courtyard Playhouse. Watch Chester asking Conrad Koch a bunch of uncomfortable questions regarding his white privilege. For those who don’t know, Koch was named South African Entertainer of the Year back in 2010 and his puppet Chester Missing has also received numerous awards. Their shows are a regular feature of many comedy festivals and this is definitely one of my favorite events in Cape Town this January.
Venue: Courtyard Playhouse, 76 Strand St, Cape Town
Looking for more things to do in Cape Town this weekend? You can check out a range of tours packages you can enjoy. Be sure to follow us on Facebook or check out our blog, which has a huge range of ideas on what to see and do, where to stay and how to put every moment of your weekend to good use. If you’re planning a longer stay, be sure to get in touch. We will help you find the perfect place to stay in Cape Town this weekend or any other weekend you plan to visit.