Festivals & Events

With so many sites to browse we've saved you time by putting together our own personal recommendations covering travel guides, things to do, eat/drink/dance, further-a-field and recommended accommodation.

Whatever and where-ever you end up we hope you have a great trip!

CAPE MINSTREL CARNIVAL Just after New Year's Day thousands of garishly dressed local musicians, singers and dancers take to the streets in a raucous carnival that dates back to the 19th century. Historically this was the one day slaves had a day off and, in its present form, the different communities compete for the most flamboyant performance, best dressed troupe, the best singer and the best band. early January	Phone: 021 700 1600 J&B MET HORSE RACE Cape Town's socialites gather for one of the major extravaganzas of the year. Some of the country's best horses run this 2000 meter racecourse, and competition on the track can be just as competitive in the stands with designers jostling to to get their clients the best dressed title. late Jan or early Feb
CAPE TOWN PRIDE FESTIVAL Organized by a non-profit organization this festival celebrates cultural awareness and diversity. Colourful street parades, parties, workshops, films and shows. February - March	Phone: 021 809 1100 SPIER SUMMER FESTIVAL At their open air amphitheatre, Spier Wine Estate hosts a Summer Performing Arts Festival showcasing South Africa's top performers in dance, opera, music, theatre and comedy. December to March
Phone: 021 975 4440 SA CHEESE FESTIVAL Over the last ten years plus South Africa has thankfully started to shrug of the bland yellow blocks of rubber and develop a diverse industry producing some amazing varieties of cheese. This event showcases national diaries of all sizes producing interesting tastes and textures. April	CAPE GOURMET FESTIVAL Showcasing South African's premier food and wine it is billed as "a hedonistic fortnight of culinary and gastronomic pleasures". The festival encompasses a host of events from the Good Food and Wine show to cookery demonstrations with top international and local chefs, restaurant promotions and the Table of Unity luncheon at the foot of Table Mountain. May
HERMANUS WHALE FESTIVAL Planned to coincide with the arrival of the Southern Right Whale's return to the waters of Walker Bay the surrounding cliffs offer spectacular views. A week of activities for all the family but if you miss then don't worry, the whales are around for a couple of months. October	CAPE TOWN INTERNATIONAL KITE FESTIVAL Africa's biggest charity kite festival plays host to some of the best known names in kiting. Attracting over 20,000 visitors with kite making, kite flying, stalls and family entertainment. November Cape Town International Kite Festival
Phone: 021 406 2947 CAPE TOWN CARNIVAL Born out of the 2010 World Cup and now attracting over 60,000 spectators this colourful parade showcases and celebrates the diversity of South Africa. Stretching along the Fan Walk between the city and stadium massive floats, dance troupes and lively music make for a fun evening. March Cape Town Carnival