Weekend events in Cape Town: Festivals, Performances, and more

The second weekend of July is packed with festivals, theatre, live music and family entertainment.
The second weekend of July is packed with festivals, theatre, live music and family entertainment.Picture: Pexels

There's no shortage of ways to spend the weekend in and around Cape Town. Whether you're after world-class performances, family-friendly entertainment or a winter escape to the Winelands, these are the events worth adding to your calendar. 

Franschhoek Bastille Festival

When: Saturday, July 11 - Sunday, July 12

Cost: From R450 for a day pass

Where: Church Street, Franschhoek  

One of the Western Cape's biggest winter events returns to Franschhoek this weekend. Dress in blue, white and red and enjoy a day of wine tastings, gourmet food, live entertainment, street performances, and the festival's popular best-dressed competition. The event runs from 11am to 5pm on Saturday and 11am to 4pm on Sunday.

Disney On Ice: Mickey's Search Party

When: Ends Sunday, July 19

Cost: From R200 (weekdays) and R295 (weekends)

Where: Grand Arena, GrandWest

Mickey, Minnie, and friends skate into the Grand Arena at GrandWest this weekend for Disney On Ice: Mickey's Search Party. Expect world-class skating, aerial acrobatics and favourite Disney characters from Frozen, Moana, Coco, Toy Story and more. Weekend performances take place at 10am, 2pm and 6pm.

The Pirates of Penzance at Artscape

When: Until Sunday, July 12

Cost: R275–R350

Where: Artscape

It's the last weekend to catch the Cape Town Gilbert & Sullivan Society's production of The Pirates of Penzance at Artscape. Featuring more than 60 performers and accompanied by the newly formed Cape Town Sinfonietta, the comic opera blends pirates, romance, and comedy in a lively, family-friendly production performed in English.

Stellenbosch Chamber Music Festival

When: Until Sunday, July 12

Cost: From R185 via Webtickets

Where: Stellenbosch University 

It's the final weekend of the Stellenbosch Chamber Music Festival, with a packed programme of orchestral concerts, lunchtime recitals and masterclasses. Highlights include Mahler's Symphony No. 1, performed by the Festival Symphony Orchestra under conductor Michael Repper, as well as performances by the newly formed Symphonic Wind Orchestra featuring works by Eric Whitacre and Philip Sparke.

Whether you're a seasoned classical music fan or simply looking to experience something different, it's worth the trip to Stellenbosch.

Lesbian* Prom Night

When: Friday, July 10, from 8pm

Cost: From R100 (early-bird)

Where: The Outlore Base (2nd Floor), 80 Hout St, CBD

Whether you're reliving your matric dance or creating the experience you always wanted, Lesbian* Prom Night promises an evening of music, dancing, and community. Taking place at The Outlore Base on Hout Street, the event celebrates queer joy and self-expression, with guests encouraged to dress however they feel most themselves.

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