Capetonians are generally keen outdoors and sports enthusiasts. There are a several annual sport, music, food and wine events that have become extremely popular and an important part of the Cape Town calendar.
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Sports Events
Cape Town Cycle Tour held annually in March is arguably one of the biggest sporting events on the Cape Town calendar, the cycle tour has become increasingly popular over the years and now sees around 30 000 cyclists taking part in the one of the most scenic cycle tours in the world. The event attracts both competitive and casual cyclists alike and includes various events for the whole family during the week leading up to the cycle.
Two Oceans Marathon - Since humble beginnings in 1970, this marathon following a beautiful 56km scenic route around the Cape Peninsula and now attracts over 12 000 entrants, including competitors from overseas. Spectators line the course to cheer participants along and the race ends at the University of Cape Town with a carnival for the whole family. This event takes place in April every year.
The Cape Town Marathon which made history in May 2026 as it is the first Abbott World Marathon Majors race to be held in Africa. There were 45000+ participants including 8 500 international runners.
Music & Entertainment Events
Cape Town International Jazz Festival - Held in the city centre, this event offers a full weekend of jazz showcasing artists from South Africa, Africa and abroad. This event takes place in Cape Town International Comedy Festival - An international comedy festival showcasing both local talent as well as well-known American and British comedians. This event takes place early September every year.
Food & Wine Festivals
There are so many food and wine festivals, there are almost too many to mention. Here are just a few: The Cape Gourmet Festival held at the Cape Town International Convention Centre, The Pick n Pay Wine and Food Festival held annually in Spring at the Claremont Cricket Club, The Cape Town wine & Food Festival, The South African Cheese Festival, held in Stellenbosch and the Swartland Olive Festival held in Riebeek Kasteel annually!
Fashion, Decor & Lifestyle
Design Indaba Expo - A variety of exclusive architects, decorators and designers showcase their cutting-edge creations. Also on offer are fashion shows, films and other performances. This event takes place 27 Feb – 1 March every year.
Hermanus Whale Festival – The Hermanus Whale festival runs for 4 days at the end of September every year and is organised to coincide with the arrival of the whales in Walker Bay. Just over an hour from Cape Town, the seaside town of Hermanus comes alive for the very popular Whale festival. The cliffs surrounding the bay offer you spectacular views of the whales. This Cape Town event is very popular because apart from whale watching, there are a host of other activities for the whole family. Jazz, blues, cabaret, comedy, food stalls, art, markets… you are spoiled for choice. The whales are around for about four months so if you miss the festival, you still have a very good chance of seeing whales at this time of year.
Kirstenbosch Concerts – The Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden in Cape Town provides a unique, natural setting for summer concerts in Cape Town. Take a picnic basket and enjoy the sounds of many artists who play at the gardens. Christmas time is very popular for carols by candlelight and New Year often attracts an international artist. Summer weather is perfect for evening Concerts at Kirstenbosch.
Mother City Queer Projects (MCQP) party – This has become one of Cape Town’s biggest and best annual parties. Gays, lesbians and friends- dressed in elaborate, sexy, dazzling costumes- party the night away in a fun-filled fantasy land. Leave all inhibitions at home! This event is normally held in December.
