TheLooking for things to do this weekend? Here’s a go-to list to help you make the most of Cape Town’s best activities and hangout spots across the Mother City!
We’ve broken it down into each day for you, with a range of opportunities to party, discover new places, get out and about, play with the kids or with friends, date night opportunities, bucket list adventures and chances to indulge yourself. It’s time to unwind after a hectic week.
Rocking The Daisies
The Cape’s music festival season begins
Postponed from its usual spot in October due to the massive storm in the Western Cape, the highly anticipated Rocking The Daisies music festival, returns to kick off the music festival season in style, with a lineup including British rapper Stormzy, Nigerian artist Ayra Starr and The Vamps.
This event is an eco-friendly music and lifestyle festival where quality entertainment, lifestyle exhibitions and food are offered. Attendees have the opportunity to witness the best local and international talent, an incredible main stage, and appearances from all the dynamic activations.
When: 17 – 19 Nov 2023 | Fri 8am to 12am | Sat 8am to 12am | Sun 10am to 2pm
Where: Mamre road off R315, Darling
Cost: Various | Book via Rocking The Daisies Tickets
More info: Rocking The Daisies
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Blue Bird Garage Food & Goods Market
A unique craft, food and artisanal market
The Blue Bird Garage Food & Goods Market in Muizenberg takes place on Thursday and Friday nights in an old postal plane hangar. The market is filled with local artisans such as cooks, bakers, designers and producers under one roof.
Guests can find local and international foods at the many food stalls as well as beautiful handmade ceramics, clothing, jewellery, body products and much more.
When: Thu 4pm -9pm | Fri 4pm – 10pm
Where: 39 Albertyn Rd, Muizenberg, Cape Town
Cost: Various
More info: Blue Bird Garage Food & Goods Market
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Movie night under the stars
Enjoy movies outdoors at the Galileo Open Air Cinema
The Galileo Open Air Cinema is the perfect setting for an evening with family, friends, birthday celebrations, work socials and date nights in some of Cape Town’s most spectacular venues.
The outdoor screenings and special events under the stars that feature a variety of family favourites, musicals and cult classics and blockbuster hits. Vibey music, roaming photo booths and games are all part of the experience. Arrive early to secure your spot on the lawn, hire comfy backrests and warm blankets and spend quality time eating, relaxing and socialising with family and friends.
More Info: The Galileo Open Air Cinema
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Head to a Bar for Happy Hour
Gigi Rooftop Bar
Located on the 6th floor of the Gorgeous George Hotel, this is a place to let your hair down and indulge in late afternoon drinks, sun-filled poolside sessions or partake in one of the bar’s signature events.
Gigi Rooftop is a living room for the neighbourhood and you’re invited. This is where Cape Town comes to play.
When: Mon – Sun from 7:30am to 10.30pm
Where: 6th floor rooftop, Gorgeous George hotel, 118 St George’s Mall, Cape Town
Cost: Various
More info: Gigi Rooftop Bar
SEE ALL CAPE TOWN BARS HERE
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Nurture Yourself: Conscious Living & Wellness
Hot Dog Yoga Studio
Hot Dog Yoga offers a variety of yoga styles and classes in a tranquil, supportive and comfortable space in which to explore and nourish the body, mind and soul.
The studio boasts three window encased yoga rooms with mountain views, as well as floors that are sprung and made of real wood to reduce the pressure on the knees and joints during practice.
More info: Hot Dog Yoga Studio
SEE MORE GUIDES TO WELLNESS HERE
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Splash Out at a Restaurant
Tang: tantalising for any palate
The Tang dynasty revelled in the senses. Practicing an appreciation for creativity and expression they celebrated one thing above all – taste.
Tang is a luxurious take on the Japanese Izakaya-style of eating and drinking.With select, premium ingredients food is prepared and brought to perfection by talented chefs. The Robata grill elevates dining by infusing food with irresistibly smokey flavours which are reminiscent of the ancient art of fireside cooking.
When: Mon – Sun 12pm to 11pm
Where: Shop 153, V&A Waterfront, 19 Breakwater Blvd, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, Cape Town
More info: Tang
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2sand4s With Gabi Motuba
An evening of local poetry and music
Gabi Motuba, the acclaimed South African jazz vocalist, composer, and music educator, performs live as part of the ‘2sand4s’ music video series. The event also features two other acclaimed artists; Reza Khota on guitar and Joshua Nemaire on double bass.
The event is family-friendly, and tickets are free for U12. Those with transport challenges are welcome to arrive earlier: Bertha House offers a warm kitchen, great food and coffee on sale.
When: 18 Nov 2023 | 6.30pm to 7.30pm
Where: Bertha House Activist Cafe, 67 – 69 Main Rd, Mowbray, Cape Town
Cost: R100
More info: 2sand4s With Gabi Motuba
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Verdi Requiem Concert
Classical musical mastery
Conductor Johan de Villiers returned to the concert stage with two performances on 18 and 19 November of the Verdi Requiem as the conclusion of the 2023 Endler Concert Series in Stellenbosch.
He conducts an almost 100-strong group of choristers consisting mostly of former Libertas choir members. Together with the celebrated opera singers Hlengiwe Makhwanazi (soprano), Minette du Toit-Pearce (mezzo-soprano), Luvo Maranti (tenor) and Conroy Scott (baritone).
As well as an orchestra of 50 professional instrumentalists with concertmaster Petri Salonen, with the sounds of the Italian composer Guiseppe Verdi’s Requiem.
When: 18 & 19 November | 4pm
Where: Endler Hall | Stellenbosch Conservatory, Victoria St & Neethling St, Stellenbosch Central, Stellenbosch
Cost: R280
More info: Verdi Requiem Concert
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Volunteer Your Community Spirit
TEARS 2023 Sleepathon
Help raise funds for TEARS animal charity by spending the night cuddling rescue dogs or cats. The biggest Slumber Party of the year is taking place at TEARS Animal Rescue on three consecutive Saturdays in November 2023.
“Snoozers” are required to check-in at the Shelter at 5pm for an evening of face-licking hospitality and a delicious plant-based dinner. Everyone is encouraged to bring sleeping bags and camping gear, as well as snacks and treats to make their sleepover as memorable as possible.
When: 11, 18 & 25 November | Saturday 5pm to Sunday 7am
Where: TEARS Animal Rescue Kennels, 4 Lekkerwater Road, Sunnydale, Cape Town
Cost: R250
More info: TEARS 2023 Sleepathon
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Explore a Market
Neighbourgoods Market at the Old Biscuit Mill
Popular gourmet and fresh produce from organic vegetables to seafood, artisan bread, home-brewed organic ciders and more in a carefully curated and highly popular market. Clothes and crafts also available.
When: Saturdays | 9am to 3pm
Where: Old Biscuit Mill, 373 Albert Rd, Woodstock
More info: Neighbourgoods Market Old Biscuit Mill
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Discover a New Trail
The Savanna Origin of Trails
Affectionately dubbed ‘SA’s MTB Party of the Year’, the Savanna Origin of Trails is an individual 2-Day mountain biking MTB Stage Race that highlights the beauty and splendour of Stellenbosch.
Mountain bikers are treated to a vast network of world-class and exclusive trails while celebrating the origin of SA mountain biking.
When: 18 – 19 Nov 2023 | 8am
Where: start: Stellenbosch University Tennis Courts, Victoria St, Stellenbosch Central, Stellenbosch
Cost: R1900-R2500
More info: The Savanna Origin of Trails
SEE MORE OUTDOOR AND ADVENTURE SPOTS HERE
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Take the Kids Out
An interactive petting zoo for all ages
Imhoff Farm’s Higgeldy Piggeldy Farm Yard is a scenic location, under the old pine trees lover-looking the vineyards that offers kids and parents the opportunity to feed and touch friendly, farmyard animals.
It’s one of Cape Town’s most popular and authentic farm experiences for children of all ages. The animals include ponies, cows, sheeps, goats, pigs, emus, rabbits and a variety of birds and chickens too. The venue also provides rental options for group parties. No restaurant service is available in the farmyard which is self-catering. There is an undercover space for 40 people, and guests may decorate as they please.
When: Mon – Sun | 9am- 4pm
Where: Kommetjie Rd, Kommetjie, Cape Town
Cost: From R20
More info: Higgeldy Piggeldy Farm Yard
SEE MORE KIDS ACTIVITIES HERE—-
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L’Avenir
An exceptional vineyard experience
L’Avenir (meaning ‘the future’) is a leading Stellenbosch boutique winery that specialises in South Africa’s emblematic varietals: Pinotage and Chenin Blanc. It is a destination that combines the heritage of Pinotage with modern winemaking techniques, offering an engaging and eco-conscious wine experience.
A selection of wine tasting and food pairing options are available. Guests can choose between four tastings: the Horizon Tasting (R70), the classic Provenance & MCC Tasting (R100), the Exclusive Single Block Experience (R140) and the Comparative tasting (R120). Nestled in the valley below the Simonsberg Mountains, it’s a fantastic destination to wine and dine casually, have a wedding or host a conference at the venue.
When: Mon to Sat from 10am to 7pm
Where: Off R44, Klapmuts Road, R44, Stellenbosch
More info: L’Avenir
Plan a Getaway
Arabella Hotel and Spa offers a tranquil getaway
A tranquil destination in Hermanus, Arabella Hotel and Spa situated in the heart of the Kogelberg Biosphere, next to the world-famous whale-watching destinations. The hotel invites you to explore a distinctive combination of luxury, dining and convenience.
Stunning nature views rom the rooms are enhanced by the floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors and private balcony or terrace. Expect painterly panoramic vistas of the ocean, lagoon, and surrounding mountain range. Guests can also enjoy locally sourced, farm-to-table dining alongside beloved international favourites, featured at the Jamani Restaurant that serves up finely crafted dishes.
You can also make the most of the tranquillity of the space with a pampering treatment at the hotel’s spa. This wellness centre specialises in award-winning spa indulgence, sauna and hydrotherapy healing, pool relaxing, as well as gym and tennis fitness sessions.
When: Monday to Sunday, from 8am to 7pm. The Spa hydro-pool is open from 8am to 8pm daily
Where: Arabella Country Estate, R44, Kleinmond, Hermanus
More info: Arabella Hotel and Spa
SEE MORE WELLNESS AND SPA SPOTS HERE
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Shop Local
MaXhosa Africa’s Afrofuturist Inspired A.S.T.O Collection
The iconic South African fashion label MaXhosa Africa chose Cape Town to showcase Laduma Ngxokolo’s futuristic collection for Spring/Summer 22/24. The brutalist and steampunk basement level of Zeitz MOCAA served as the runway platform for the showcase.
The South African fashion brand breathes life into a vision of tomorrow, drawing inspiration from African folklore, spirituality, and intertwining it with elements of astrology.
The collection introduced several standout pieces poised to become timeless classics for the brand, including panelled knit dresses and patchwork accents on dresses and suits.
Where to get it: Shop at MaXhosa Africa’s retail store at Shop No. 7233, 19 Dock Rd, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town, or online
More info: MaXhosa Africa’s Afrofuturist Inspired A.S.T.O Collection
Try a New Activity
Get paddling with SUP Cape Town
SUP Cape Town provides introductory lessons in Stand Up Paddleboarding (SUP), as well as board rentals and long-term rentals for holiday trips.
Lessons are an hour long and include water safety, stability, balancing, and paddling strokes. Rentals vary in duration and include all the necessary equipment as well as a short lesson. No experience required.
When: Daily | 9am to 5pm
Where: Battery Park, Alfred Road, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, Cape Town
Cost: R200 (30 min Rental ) | R250 ( 1h Rental) | R550 ( 90 min Rental with Instructor)
More info: SUP Cape Town
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Check Out a New Bar
Culture Wine Bar at Grub & Vine
A delightful fusion of wine, music, and culinary excellence, Culture Wine Bar is a standout destination in the city’s vibrant food and entertainment scene. Helmed by the renowned chef Matt Manning, whose culinary prowess is well-known, the bar boasts a carefully curated selection of wines that cater to both connoisseurs and enthusiasts alike. The ambiance is often enhanced by the soulful tunes of jazz maestro Buddy Wells, creating a harmonious atmosphere for wine enthusiasts and music lovers.
More info: Culture Wine Bar at Grub And Vine
SEE MORE BARS AND LOUNGES HERE
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Treat a Loved One with some Fine Dining
Urchin at Hyatt Regency Cape Town
Nestled in the vibrant Cape Town, URCHIN embodies the art of culinary excellence. Like a beautifully choreographed ballet, the restaurant orchestrates dining excellence where sustainable fish and seafood take centre stage.
Just like its namesake, URCHIN’s menu unveils a symphony of delectable seafood creations that captivate both the palate and the eye. Led by Chef Gerard Van Staden, each dish ignites all five senses, inviting guests on an unforgettable journey of flavours and textures.
The venue hosts special dining events such as Taste the Movie: Harry Potter taking place on the 18th of November. Harry Potter fans will love this fine-dining tribute to the beloved series. URCHIN promises an enchanting homage straight from the magical realm. Fear not, Professor Quirrell is nowhere near – just pure magic and delectable delights. With many more offerings available throughout 2023 running until 2 December.
When: Various
Where: Hyatt Regency Cape Town, 126 Buitengracht St, Cape Town CBD, Cape Town
Cost: Various
More info: Urchin at Hyatt Regency Cape Town
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Piekniek en Musiek – Nederburg Session
A picnic and music celebration
The Cape’s favourite family music festival, Piekniek en Musiek – Nederburg Sessions, returns on 19 November with headliners Kurt Darren, Robbie Wessels and Will Linley. Me and Mr Green as well as The Betsies feature as supporting acts.
These concerts take place at the picturesque Nederburg farm in Paarl, with its beautiful lawns and shady trees making for a sublime afternoon picnic music experience. The venue also has a kids’ play area – perfect for families looking to enjoy an afternoon outdoors.
When: 19 November | Gates open at 11am, performances start at 2pm
Where: Nederburg Wines, Sonstraal Rd, Paarl
Cost: R275 per person, R150 per child under 12 years
More info: Piekniek en Musiek – Nederburg Sessions
Celebrate the best local restaurants and chefs
Eat Out Woolworths Restaurant Awards
The Eat Out Woolworths Restaurant Awards returns, celebrating the best local restaurants and chefs. Taking place at the GrandWest Grand Arena on 19 November, the annual gala event is a culinary highlight where the food served reflects South Africa’s dynamic and ever-evolving dining scene.
This year, Chefs Jackie Cameron, Eleanor Coetzee, Ronel de Jager, Megin Meikle, Motheba Makhetha, Charné Sampson and Carla Schulze showcase their innovation, creativity, expertise and sheer talent at the 2023 Eat Out Woolworths Restaurant Awards.
The menu for the Eat Out Woolworths Restaurant Awards draws inspiration from the rustic textures and flavours of earthy grains. Each meticulously crafted course is a testament to the extraordinary quality of the ingredients, many of which will be supplied by the headline sponsor, Woolworths.
More info: Eat Out Woolworths Restaurant Awards
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Meet Friends for Brunch
Our Local Restaurant
Situated inside an antique store and nursery, Our Local is a food experience that brings people together around one table in a unique environment.
Serving breakfasts and lunch all day, 7 days a week, the menu offers their specialty of open toasts and popular Arnold Bennett, shakshuka, pastries, and other comfort foods.
More info: Our Local Restaurant
Dip a Toe Into a Tidal Pool
Wooley’s Tidal Pool
Woolley’s tidal pool is located between Kalk Bay and Clovelly offering spectacular views across the bay. There are two pools, of which the smaller one is perfect for younger kids to paddle in. The flat rocks offer an ideal perch on which to sit and view whales in season, or simply enjoy the crashing of the waves.
When: Always open
Where: Off Main Rd, Kalk Bay, Cape Town
Cost: Free
More info: Wooley’s Tidal Pool
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Find Culinary Adventure at a Fresh Food Market
Lourensford – more than a market
Situated in the heart of the Helderberg mountains near Somerset West, the scenery makes for a picturesque outing for the family. Lourensford welcomes wine, confectionary, and coffee lovers alike. And the ever-popular weekend market is not to be missed.
Your four-legged friend can join in the fun at their doggie bar. For something a little more intimate, try their Turkish Delight & Wine pairing, while the children are catered for with the Kiddies Tasting option. No day is complete without a visit to the Coffee Roasting Company.
More info: Lourensford Market
Indulge Yourself at an Ice Cream Parlour
Tapi Tapi, for sweet-tooth lovers
Tapi Tapi is a one of a kind ice cream parlour in Observatory, Cape Town. The parlour uses ice cream and frozen treats as a way to tell stories of Africa’s scents, flavours, cultures and history.
Local flavours from South Africa can be enjoyed as well as flavours inspired by cultures, including the Amagwinya ice cream with deep-fried vetkoek dough, the avocado ginger and lime flavoured ice cream, and the Rondo ice cream, which is made with edible clay and vanilla.
Where: 76 Lower Main Rd, Observatory, Cape Town
More info: Tapi Tapi Ice Cream Parlour
SEE MORE ICE CREAM PARLOURS HERE
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Lap Up some Heritage
Cape Heritage Tours sheds light on local surrounds
Cameron Peters leads an ongoing series of walking tours, every Sunday, encompassing the sights and stories of the old Cape at a slow, comfortable pace. The tours include Long Street, Observatory, Rondebosch, CBD, Simon’s Town, Gardens, the Canal District, Muizenberg, Sea Point, Bo Kaap and more.
More info: @capetownheritagetours
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Find Your Next Passion
Hint Hunt introduces the Marble Room
HintHunt – one of the pioneering escape room companies responsible for kicking off the worldwide Escape Game craze, has launched its biggest and best room yet.
The ‘Marble room’ – inspired by Marvel comics – offers a brand new cutting edge series of rooms in which to be locked away and challenged to solve all the clues and puzzles before the 60 minute timer hits zero.
More info: Hint Hunt Escape Rooms
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Sail away with Sunset Cruises in Cape Town
Take the fun out to sea with Waterfront Charters
Waterfront Charters offers some of the best sunset cruises in Cape Town, as well as grand sunset trips, luxury private yacht charters and much more. Expect breathtaking views spanning the Atlantic coastline and Table Mountain on the horizon. There’s a luxury boat trip for two for an unforgettable date night, pre-sunset champagne cruise – The Champagne Cruise is Waterfront Charters’ second last cruise of the day and gives you the golden hour experience.
The Luxury Sunset Catamaran Cruise with Prosecco is ideal for private parties and corporate events. Start with two glasses of complimentary Martini Prosecco to celebrate fine weather and feels as the sun sets
More info: Sunset Cruises in Cape Town
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A Close Encounter with Nature
Experience the beautiful creatures at Alpaca Loom
Alpaca Loom offers an experience with nature, animals and the outdoor beauty that is a real escape from the bustling of the city. Guests can feed and pet the alpacas and take a tour. There is also a coffee shop serving various cakes, coffee and food offerings.
The Alpaca Agility Course is part the Alpaca Walk and is tons of fun. Guests are navigated across a series of obstacles with an alpaca on a lead, suitable for both young and old.
More info: Alpaca Loom
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Family Fun Day Out
Archery Adventures hits the bullseye
After introduction and basic instruction (20-30 minutes), the instructor and guide sets off with the participants along riverside trails on the wine farm, with their bow and arrows slung on their backs, to experience a ‘real life’ Archery Trail, featuring mocked up creatures, some stationery and some moving.
Archery Adventures is great for birthday parties, company outings, team building, year end functions or bachelor/ette parties. Minimum age 8 years. No experience needed.
Where: Lourensford Rd, Somerset West, Cape Town
When: Tues – Sun | 11am to 1pm & 2 to 4pm
Cost: R650pp
More info: Archery Adventures
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Treat Yourself
Take a load off at the luxurious Majeka House Spa
Majeka House Spa is a luxurious wellness retreat located in the heart of Stellenbosch, South Africa. Nestled amidst lush gardens and vineyards, this exquisite spa offers a serene and tranquil environment for guests to indulge in a range of rejuvenating treatments and experiences.
The spa at Majeka House is renowned for its world-class facilities and exceptional service. The spa menu features an extensive selection of treatments, including massages, facials, body wraps, and beauty rituals, all designed to promote relaxation, balance and overall well-being.
When: Mon – Sun | 8am to 5pm
Where: 26 Houtkapper St, Paradyskloof, Stellenbosch
Cost: Various
More info: Majeka House Spa
What are you looking forward to doing this weekend or in the weeks ahead? DM us on Facebook or Instagram, or drop us an email. We love to hear about your favourite things to do!