Expert recommendations of the top events—with tips on how to best experience these celebrations.
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Cape Town Minstrel Carnival
January-February. More than 35 minstrel marching troupes don satin-shiny costumes and parade through the city to celebrate the New Year and compete for trophies. Processions start in front of Old City Hall, end at Green Point Stadium. Big parades held December 31st and January 2nd; smaller ones on Saturday nights in January and early February. www.capetownminstrels.co.za
J&B Met
Last Saturday in January. South Africa’s richest horse race—a nearly $200,000 purse—is the social event of the season. Glamorous spectators, live music, and, yes, a race featuring a field of top-flight thoroughbreds. Held at Kenilworth Race Course. www.jbmet.co.za
Cape Town International Jazz Festival
Late March. Cape Town’s biggest jazz event. Attracts international headliners such as Elvis Costello, Ladysmith Black Mambazo, and Randy Crawford. Concerts held at Cape Town International Convention Centre with a free, open-air performance in Greenmarket Square. www.capetownjazzfest.com
Cape Town Festival
April. Performing arts festival designed to promote cultural diversity showcases Cape Town’s most creative souls. Events range from spoken word performances to extravagant fashion shows, street parties, dance, theater, and all kinds of music. Venues across the city. www.capetownfestival.co.za
Cape Town International Comedy Festival
September. Three weeks of comedy shows held around the city. Venues include the Baxter Theatre and Artscape. Includes street performances and screenings of short film comedies. www.comedyfestival.co.za
