Things to Do This Weekend in Cape Town (10 – 12 May)

From breakdancing to beauty classes, cooking Indian style to spicy cabaret, the list of things to do this weekend in Cape Town is heating up. Plus, we’ve got a special Mother’s Day section for you this week, with lots of ideas on how you can focus fully on that wonderful woman in your life. Whether you’re looking for activities for friends, family, or a partner or if you’re flying solo, you’ll find some cool events to look forward to this weekend in Cape Town.

Mother’s Day is on Sunday. If you’re still brainstorming ideas, take a look at our carefully curated Mother’s Day Guide which features a wide range of ideas for Saturday and Sunday. Explore glamorous brunches, motorcycle rides, art classes, Lippizaner stallions dancing to Mamma Mia and much more.

If you’re looking to let loose a little this weekend in Cape Town, the naughty cabaret, Tips and Titbits at Alice Restaurant is the perfect place to start. Packed with laughs and fabulous singalong hit tunes, the show is sure to help loosen inhibitions. The intriguing dinner theatre also presents guests with a delicious meal put together by a highly acclaimed chef. This is a feast for all senses.

Cost: R960 per person, including a 3-course dinner and show. Book through Dineplan

When: From 2 May 2024, every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday
Where: Alice Restaurant at The Grand Daddy Hotel, 38 Long St, Cape Town City Centre

FLASHED Tattoo Day at Radisson RED is the hotel’s third annual tattoo day – and pushes back against outdated stigmas around tattoos and those who wear them. Pop in and browse some designs, enjoy drinks and light snacks, and get your first tattoo or a new addition.

Cost: Free entrance. Tattoos at various costs. Food and drink for your own account

When: Saturday, 11 May from 10am to 5pm
Where: Radisson RED Cape Town, No. 6, Silo, Silo Square, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, Cape Town

Learn how to create an authentic three-course Indian-style meal with the guidance of professional chefs. The menu includes culinary delights such as Mango Chutney and Mini Pappadums, Chicken Tikka Masala, and Gulab Jamun. All proceeds go to student tuition at the Culinary Academy South Africa (CASA), a non-profit organisation providing mentorship and opportunities to marginalised and previously disadvantaged communities.

Cost: R450. Book through Quicket

When: Fri May 10, 6.30pm – 10pm
Where: Studio Jade, 45 Yew St, Salt River

The historical observatory hosts regular talks and viewings through modern and old telescopes, including the 1894 Maclean telescope. SAAO Open Nights, on the second and fourth Saturday of every month, include stargazing through the telescope (if the weather is clear), a presentation on topics of astronomy or physics, and an introduction to the observatory museum, and the library.

Cost: Free. Book here

When: Sat 11 May 8pm – 10pm 
Where: 1 Observatory Rd, Observatory

The Galileo Open Air Cinema has extended its season, and with its blankets, hot drinks, delicious food and VIP experiences, it’s still a winner of a way to spend an evening. This weekend, catch Encanto (Friday) at the gorgeous Kirstenbosch Gardens and The Greatest Showman (Saturday) at the enthralling Spier Wine Farm (Stellenbosch Waldorf School grounds).

Cost: R130 (students and pensioners) – R800 (VIP Double Ticket). Book here

When: Encanto: Fri 10 May |  The Greatest Showman: Sat 11 May. Doors open 5.30pm; movie starts 7.30pm
Where: Encanto: Kirstenbosch Gardens, Rhodes Dr, Newlands | The Greatest Showman: Spier Wine Estate, Stellenbosch Walforf School, R310 Baden Powell Dr, Stellenbosch

The Solo Pro Africa Breakdance Championship is a mesmerizing one-on-one breakdance spectacle orchestrated by The Vouks Foundation. This captivating performance at the V&A Amphitheatre is free and offers a gateway to the breakdance realm, where aspiring Olympians can etch their legend in the stars.

Cost: Free

When: Sat 11 May, 12pm – 6pm
Where: V&A Amphitheatre, Dock Rd, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront

Dive into a realm of beauty brilliance with a free, exclusive makeup masterclass, led by the ingenious artisans of Bobbi Brown, at Cavendish Square Shopping Centre. The experience includes a rejuvenating hand massage by Jo Malone, while Woolworths Beauty unveils personalized secrets to amplify radiance.

Catch highly esteemed sultry jazz and soul singer/songwriter Maya Spector at the Time Out Market. with Andre Webb on bass and Angelo Syster on guitar. The V&A’s relatively new market offers an enticing diversity of cuisine from South Africa and beyond. Numerous bars provide superb brews, wines, spirits, and coffee, and there’s plenty to choose from for the kids, too.