Planning a trip to Cape Town in 2025? You’re in for a treat. This city is alive with events that showcase its culture, energy, and sense of community. Whether you’re into music, sports, fashion, or just looking for something different to do, Cape Town’s calendar is packed with exciting experiences to choose from.
Here are five events you’ll want to keep on your radar as you plan your visit to the Mother City.
1. Cape Town Street Parade
Date: 4 January 2025
Start your year on a high note with the Cape Town Street Parade, or as locals affectionately call it, the Kaapse Klopse. This vibrant celebration is a long-standing Cape Town tradition, bringing together minstrel troupes in colorful outfits to parade through the city. With upbeat music, choreographed dance routines, and joyous energy radiating from every corner, it’s hard not to get swept up in the excitement.
The parade begins at Sir Lowry Road and Darling Street and winds its way through Cape Town, finishing in the historic Bo-Kaap neighborhood. It’s not just a fun day out—it’s a cultural spectacle rooted in the city’s rich history, with deep ties to the Cape’s slave heritage.
Beyond the music and dancing, the event creates a sense of togetherness as locals and visitors line the streets to cheer on the performers. If you’re looking for a way to experience Cape Town’s spirit and energy, this is it. Just be sure to arrive early for a good spot!
2. Sanlam Cape Town Marathon
Date: 18 October 2025
As the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon gears up to join the prestigious Abbott World Marathon Majors in 2026, it’s already cementing its reputation as one of Africa’s top marathons. Whether you’re a serious runner or a supportive spectator, this event offers something special.
The route is a highlight in itself, taking participants through Cape Town’s most iconic landmarks, including Table Mountain, the V&A Waterfront, and Sea Point Promenade. It’s a scenic journey that showcases both the city’s natural and urban beauty.
For runners, it’s a chance to be part of a world-class event while enjoying Cape Town’s incredible surroundings. For spectators, it’s an inspiring day filled with community spirit as locals come out to cheer, wave flags, and celebrate the runners’ determination.
Even if you’re not running, you’ll feel the buzz of excitement as Cape Town embraces this major event. It’s a fantastic way to experience the city’s lively energy while supporting participants from around the globe
3. Cape Town Carnival
Date: 15 March 2025
The Cape Town Carnival is a parade that celebrates creativity, culture, and community. The city streets come alive with colorful floats, dazzling costumes, and performers from all walks of life. It’s one of those events where Cape Town’s diversity truly shines, with people from various communities coming together to celebrate through music, dance, and storytelling.
The carnival typically takes place in the evening, which adds a magical feel as the floats and costumes are illuminated under the night sky. Whether you’re mesmerized by the larger-than-life displays or dancing along to the infectious beats, the Cape Town Carnival is a feast for the senses.
What’s great about this event is how inclusive it is—it’s perfect for families, groups of friends, or even solo travelers looking to experience the city’s vibrant culture. Bring comfortable shoes, a camera, and your sense of wonder because this is a night you’ll remember long after your trip ends.
4. L’Ormarins King’s Plate
Date: 4 January 2025
For a day that blends sport, style, and socializing, head to the L’Ormarins King’s Plate, one of Cape Town’s most prestigious horse racing events. Held at the Kenilworth Racecourse, this event is as much about the fashion as it is about the racing. Think elegant dresses, bold hats, and sharp suits, it’s the kind of day where everyone brings their A-game.
The races themselves are thrilling, featuring some of South Africa’s top horses and jockeys competing for the coveted King’s Plate title. But even if you’re not into horse racing, there’s plenty to enjoy. The event offers a lively social scene, with bubbly flowing, gourmet food on offer, and a festive atmosphere that’s hard to resist.
It’s a great way to experience Cape Town’s glamorous side while still enjoying a fun day out. Whether you’re cheering on your favorite horse or simply soaking up the ambiance, the L’Ormarins King’s Plate is a unique experience worth adding to your itinerary.
5. Cape Town 10s
Date: 31 January – 1 February 2025
The Cape Town 10s isn’t just for sports fans—it’s for anyone who enjoys a good time. Known as the world’s biggest social sports festival, this two-day event features rugby, netball, dodgeball, and even a few quirky competitions like “beer pong.” But it’s not all about the games. The event also boasts live entertainment, food trucks, and a festival-like atmosphere that attracts thousands of visitors each year.
Whether you’re playing or just watching, the 10s offers plenty to enjoy. Teams from all over the world come to compete, and the matches are filled with laughs, camaraderie, and just the right amount of competitive spirit. Off the field, the vibe is equally lively, with bands and DJs keeping the energy up throughout the day and into the night.
It’s a weekend that combines sports, music, and socializing into one big party. So whether you’re keen to support your favorite team or just soak up the festive atmosphere, the Cape Town 10s is an event you won’t want to miss.
Conclusion
Cape Town’s 2025 event calendar offers a little bit of everything: cultural celebrations that capture the city’s rich heritage, high-energy sports festivals that bring people together, and elegant gatherings that showcase Cape Town’s stylish side. Whether you’re cheering on the minstrel troupes at the Cape Town Street Parade, marveling at the creative spectacle of the Cape Town Carnival, or soaking up the festive atmosphere at the Cape Town 10s, this small sample of the available experiences are sure to leave you with incredible memories.So why wait? Mark your calendar, book your stay, and let these unforgettable events—and the comfort of O’Two Hotel—make your trip one for the books. Cape Town knows how to put on a show, and you won’t want to miss it!
