Kenya’s President William Ruto takes a photo with drivers after the conclusion of the 2026 Safari Rally Kenya
NAIVASHA, Kenya, 18 March 2026 -/African Media Agency(AMA)/ – The dust settled on another thrilling edition of the legendary Safari Rally Kenya as the third round of the 2026 FIA World Rally Championship (WRC) concluded Sunday amid scenes of celebration across the Rift Valley.
Japan’s Takamoto Katsuta and co-driver Aaron Johnston secured a historic maiden victory in the WRC, conquering the brutal terrain after four days of high drama on the toughest gravel rally in the world. The Toyota Gazoo Racing (TGR) WRT pair inherited the lead during a chaotic Saturday morning when multiple frontrunners retired in the killer Sleeping Warrior stage.
TGR team-mates Oliver Solberg, Sébastien Ogier and Elfyn Evans, ran into trouble on the punishing SS13 section and the demanding transport section that followed.
Katsuta had deliberately adopted a cautious, survival-first approach as his peers bowed out all around him, and his strategy paid ultimate dividends.
After establishing an overnight lead of over a minute and 25 seconds at the end of Day 3, the popular Japanese ace nursed his GR Yaris Rally 1 in Sunday’s four stages to clinch his biggest WRC career win by 27.4s.
M-Sport’s Jon Armstrong leaves a trail of dust behind as fans watch on at the 2026 Safari Rally Kenya
Kenyan President William Ruto attended the closing ceremony in Naivasha, praising the event’s global significance and offering reassurance about the country’s commitment to keeping the iconic event on the world stage.
“The Safari Rally is part of Kenya’s sporting heritage and a global showcase for our country,” said President Ruto.
He added: “The participation of fans from across the East African Community has elevated the Safari Rally into a truly regional event. Your presence shows the power of sport to bring East Africa together.”
From the ceremonial flag-off on Thursday to the dramatic finale at Hell’s Gate National Park, tens of thousands of fans lined the stages across the Great Rift Valley, transforming the rally into a rolling festival of motorsport, colour and culture.
Scores of supporters gathered on rocky hilltops, dusty plains and river crossings to witness the world’s best rally drivers wrestle with the brutal conditions that make the Safari Rally unique.
For drivers, the rally delivered exactly what its reputation promises: adventure, endurance and breathtaking beauty.
Irish Rally Academy Driver Josh McErlean navigates his M-Sport Ford Puma Rally1 through the mud at the 2026 Safari Rally Kenya
Competitors carved through choking clouds of ‘fesh-fesh’ dust, thundered across rocky escarpments and plunged through muddy water crossings as the Rift Valley’s scenic landscapes provided a breathtaking backdrop to the action.
The legendary stages, including the unforgiving plains of Soysambu and the winding roads beneath the Sleeping Warrior delivered mechanical failures and punctures that humbled the world’s best rally machines.
Throw in the unpredictable weather to the mix, sudden rains interchanging with baking sunshine, left competitors to contend with muddy and dusty sections that broke their cars and brought out their best driving skills.
On offer were trophies and points in the WRC1, WRC2 and WRC3 global categories as well as the African national championships.
Behind the WRC contenders, local drivers thrilled home fans who gathered in huge numbers across spectator zones stretching from Naivasha to Elementaita to cheer them on. Rally veteran Carl Tundo, who now serves as the Head of Secretariat for the WRC Safari Rally, praised the scale of support from fans across the region.
“What we have witnessed this week – the crowds, the passion, the atmosphere – shows just how much this rally means to Kenya and to the entire East African region,” he said.
“Our focus now is to build on that momentum and continue raising the standard of the Safari Rally so that it grows even stronger for teams, fans and partners in the years ahead,” added the five-time winner of the WRC Safari Rally.
SportPesa Racing driver Leonardo Varese navigates a rough section of the course during the 2026 Safari Rally Kenya
For title contenders in the WRC, the Safari Rally once again proved why it is widely regarded as the most demanding round of the season.
Toyota, Hyundai Shell Mobis WRT and M-Sport Ford Puma WRT crews were forced to adapt to rapidly changing conditions, where a single puncture or suspension failure ended podium challenges in seconds.
Corporate partners also embraced the carnival atmosphere, with fan zones and entertainment areas set up by sponsors throughout Naivasha.
SportPesa CEO Ronald Karauri hailed the rally’s ability to unite fans across the continent. “The Safari Rally is a celebration of Kenya, of Africa and of the incredible passion our people have for sport,” Karauri said.
He added: “The energy we’ve seen from fans this week shows why this rally deserves to remain a permanent fixture on the global motorsport calendar.”
As engines fell silent in Naivasha, Nakuru County, on Sunday attention now turns to the future of the iconic event.
The current contract to keep the Safari Rally in the WRC ended this year and discussions on a renewal are expected to gather momentum in the coming months.
Many across Kenya and the wider East African region hope the extraordinary turnout has once again demonstrated why the Safari Rally belongs on the global championship calendar.
Cape Town Carnival is back this March, promising a spectacle of colour, culture, and entertainment. This family event attracts hundreds to the Mother City, highlighting Cape Town’s top talent. With the theme “Follow Your HeART,” it celebrates artists, makers, and dreamers driven by passion and creativity.
Here’s what you can look forward to this year:
What to Expect at This Year’s Cape Town Carnival
This year, the organisers are amping up the fun and taking the carnival to new heights. The spotlight falls on 12 “Champions” from Cape Town’s creative community, including Zolani Mahola, Anslin Gysman, DJ Ready D, Suidooster star Natasha van der Merwe, graffiti artist Rizah Potgieter, hip-hop artist Bravo le Roux, designer Stephen van Eeden, make-up influencer Jemma Fourie, performance legend Terry Fortune, activist Nyaniso Tutu-Burris, make-up artist Qhayiya Tyali, and musician Dylan Majavie.
Joining in the excitement are Siv Ngesi on the Triple Threat float and Miss Universe South Africa 2025 Melissa Nayimuli on the Boldly Beautiful float.
The parade also features beloved performers, community groups, and artists giving a live showcase of their craft. And, of course, the ever-popular firefighters and law enforcement officers will be there to turn up the heat!
After the final float passes, the celebration continues at the Carnival Village Afterparty.
Cape Town firefighters light up the Cape Town Carnival, an annual event in the city.
Cape Town Carnival 1KM Fun Run
Runners, carnival enthusiasts, and costume lovers, get ready! The Cape Town Carnival 1KM Fun Run starts on Human Rights Day, 21 March 2026. Participants will dash from the corner of Chiappini Street and Somerset Road, the parade’s official finish point, to the start line outside P12, ending right where the Carnival parade begins later that evening.
Choose your race: Men’s Race, Women’s Race, or the Dress-Up Race. Each race is limited to 100 runners, so secure your spot quickly. Registration is open from 3pm to 4:15pm, with all runners ready at the start line by 4:30pm. Entries cost R100 per person and close on 19 March, or once capacity is reached, whichever comes first.
Event Details
Where: The parade begins at The Green Point Fan Walk on 21 March 2026. Time: Carnival Villages open at 3pm, with the parade starting at 6pm. Arrive early to soak up the vibe! Alcohol Policy: No alcohol is permitted on the public streets, but there are designated villages where you can enjoy a drink responsibly.
Tickets: The event is free to attend, but you can buy limited VIP and seated stand tickets here.
While summer begins to wind down in Cape Town, the events calendar is only heating up, with a lineup of epic events celebrating culture, art, music, and food.
This March, the Mother City is bursting with unforgettable experiences, from a colourful carnival and world-class jazz and music festivals to laugh-out-loud comedy shows and captivating theatre productions.
Here is your ultimate guide to Cape Town in March 2026:
Bree Street Sunday Market
1, 15, 29 March Clarke’s at 133 Bree Street
Enjoy a slow Sunday morning with local creatives at the Bree Street Sunday Market, held alongside the car-free Bree Street Sundays, a pedestrian-friendly activation in Cape Town’s CBD that transforms Bree and Shortmarket Streets into a lively social hub. Gather at Clarke’s from 10am-3pm for great food, browsing, and networking. More information here.
Vegan Goods Market
1 March The Range, Tokai
The Vegan Goods Market brings together over 50 vendors offering delicious plant-based food, refreshing drinks, and cruelty-free home and body products. Add live music from local artists and a relaxed outdoor setting, and you’ve got the perfect Sunday outing for conscious food lovers. More information here.
Boeka on Bree
1 March Between Shortmarket and Castle streets
The second annual Boeka on Bree kicks off at 6:30 pm, honouring the rich history of the Muslim community that has called the inner-city home since the late 1700s. Guests are invited to enjoy soup, dates, and water while taking part in a short prayer service and a historical talk. Bring a mat and something to share. Boeka on Bree is part of Bree St Sundays and is proudly hosted in collaboration with MSA Union, Radio 786, Cape Family Research Forum, AwqafSA, Salt River Heritage Society, Community Chess, Madina Institute, and Young Urbanists. Visit Young Urbanists Instagram page for more information.
Oh So 2000’s Sunday Street Fest
1 March Constitution Street, Harringtons Lounge, District Nightclub
Three venues. One street. Non-stop energy. Oh So 2000’s is taking over the streets for a Sunday daytime party. Think 2000s hip-hop and R&B anthems blasting from every corner — Usher, 50 Cent, Missy Elliott, Ashanti, Nelly, Destiny’s Child, Ja Rule, Beyoncé, Pharrell Williams vibes all day and night. Get your tickets via Quicket.
Kirstenbosch Summer Concerts
1, 8, 15, 22, and 29 March Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden
It’s the grand finale of Summer, and Kirstenbosch Summer Concerts has 5 epic shows featuring some of the country’s top acts. The line-up includes Derek Gripper and The Kyle Sheperd Trio (1 March), Matthew Mole (8th), Thandiswa Mazwai (15th), Will Linley and Ben Rodrigues (22nd), and The Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra and Rob Van Vuuren – Peter and the Wolf (29th). Get your tickets via Webtickets.
Coniston Garden Tour
5-7 March Muizenberg Park
Step into the prize-winning Coniston Garden and experience a beautiful morning immersed in nature, while also discovering the fynbos restoration work taking place in Muizenberg Park. Begin with a gentle 30-minute walk through Muizenberg Park, followed by a one-hour guided tour of the Coniston Garden. The experience concludes with tea and delicious home bakes. The cost is R250 per person (100% of the proceeds go to the Fynbos Restoration Project). To book, WhatsApp John Venn on 067 382 4260 with your preferred date and time.
Spier Light Art
6 March- 6 April Spier Wine Farm
Spier Light Art returns to Spier from 6 March until 6 April 2026. Set among vineyards, the dam, river, and our historic buildings, the exhibition explores how light shapes memory, place, power, and possibility. Walk along winding pathways as artworks emerge from the night in playful, poetic, and provocative ways.
Entry to Spier Light Art is free, but booking is essential. This year, we’ve also introduced additional ticketed food experiences, so you can plan your evening, whether that’s a burger, pizza, picnic, or relaxed sit-down dinner. Book here.
Kingdom of Ubuntu – The Musical in Concert
6-7 March Artscape, Opera House
Experience a powerful Afro-epic musical journey that fuses live orchestra, African choir, dance, ritual, and storytelling. Set in a mythical African kingdom, this extraordinary concert celebrates unity across diverse clans, languages, and rhythms, while exploring timeless themes of love, betrayal, power, and leadership. When an exiled heir returns to claim the throne, the kingdom faces a pivotal choice: destruction or Ubuntu. The Kingdom of Ubuntu features South Africa’s most celebrated artists, including Mbuso Khoza, Ann Masina, Mbulelo Grootboom, Dizu Plaatjies, Bongiwe Nakani, and the Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra. Book via Webtickets.
Spend your Saturday morning exploring the Streetscapes Garden Market, a community hub for fresh produce, unique finds and local creativity. Enjoy fresh seasonal produce and organic compost, discover plants and garden treasures, delicious food and beverages, handmade crafts, home décor and thrift fashion, and plenty of unique, one-of-a-kind finds. Details here.
Kurt Schoonraad presents Funny Side Up
7 March Die Boer Restaurant Durbanville
Everyone’s favourite funny man, Kurt Schoonraad, returns to the stage with his latest one-man show, Funny Side Up. In this laugh-out-loud performance, he takes audiences on a hilarious ride through the quirks and chaos of modern life, from everyday frustrations to finding the lighter side of a fast-changing world.Expect sharp wit, relatable stories, bold observations and plenty of classic Kurt charm. Book your tickets here.
Cape Town Cycle Tour
8 MarchGrand Parade
Recognised as one of the world’s largest timed mass-participation cycling events, the Cape Town Cycle Tour continues to attract cyclists from across the globe to experience the beauty of the Cape on two wheels. The 109 km route takes riders around the Cape Peninsula, passing through Bakoven, Camps Bay, Clifton, and Sea Point.
Tasting Under the Stars
12 March Durbanville Wine Valley
Wine lovers, raise a glass to Harvest 2026 at the much-anticipated Tasting Under the Stars. Rather than a single central festival, this event sees each participating wine farms curate its own harvest-inspired event, forming part of a series of celebrations marking the end of harvest in the region.
Participating cellars include Canto, D’Aria, De Grendel, Diemersdal, Groot Phesantekraal, Klein Roosboom and Maastricht Wines, among others. For more information, visit here.
Nora En Pure presents Purified
13 March Cabo Beach Club
Nora En Pure is bringing her iconic deep house grooves to the Mother City for an unforgettable night of music, sun, and waves. She’ll be joined by Monkey Safari, Chris Luno, Polar Inc, and Cornelius SA for a lineup that will keep you dancing till the stars come out. Grab your tickets and tables now via Howler.
Pretty Woman: The Musical
From 19 March Artscape Opera House
For the very first time, Pretty Woman: The Musical is coming to South Africa! Based on the iconic 1990 film starring Julia Roberts and Richard Gere, this stage adaptation features music by Grammy Award-winner Bryan Adams and direction and choreography by Tony Award-winner Jerry Mitchell. A global smash hit; the show is a dazzling celebration of love, laughter, and nostalgia, guaranteed to captivate audiences of all ages. Don’t miss it, it’s running until 19 April 2026! Book tickets via Ticketmaster.
Image Credit: Matthew Murphy
Cape Town Carnival
21 March Green Point Fanwalk
Cape Town Carnival turns sweet 16 this year, and it’s bigger and better than ever! Themed “Follow your heART”, the Carnival promises a spectacle of hand-crafted floats, intricate costumes, dance groups, and live performances from powerhouse artists like Zolani Mahola, Anslin Gysman, and DJ Ready D. Hundreds of performers, musicians, and community groups, including the ever-popular City of Cape Town Firefighters, will light up the route. More details here.
Corona Sunsets Festival
21 March The Glen Country Club, Clifton
The Corona Sunsets Festival is back in the Mother City this month, from 12pm to 11pm, bringing a full day of music and vibes. Dance to an electrifying lineup featuring Purple Disco Machine, DJ Kent, LiquidDeep, Ndlovu Youth Choir, Sun-EL Musician, Zakes Bantwini, Mila-Rose, Msaki, Roz B2B Housewife, BlaqKongo, and Meek. An event you don’t want to miss! Book your tickets via Howler.
DHL Stormers vs Dragons, Edinburgh
22 and 28 March DHL Stadium
This March, rugby fans are in for a thrill as the DHL Stormers take to the field in two of the month’s most eagerly awaited clashes. On 22 March, they go head-to-head with the Dragons, followed by another epic showdown against Edinburgh on 28 March. Get your tickets
Cape Town International Jazz Festival
27 and 28 March Cape Town International Convention Centre
The Cape Town International Jazz Festival is an annual Cape Town event at the Cape Town International Convention Centre. The event brings together artists and jazz lovers from all over the world. The lineup is a mix of hot, up-and-coming musicians, local flavour, and big international names, including Jacob Collier, Sipho ‘Hotstix’ Mabuse, Nduduzo Makhathini, The Yussef Dayes Experience, and Salomão Soares. For more information, visit here.
Montreux Jazz Festival
27-29 March Huguenot Monument, Franschhoek
The first-ever Montreux Jazz Festival in Franschhoek promises two unforgettable days of music, art, food, and wine. Inspired by the festival on Lake Geneva, this event celebrates music in all its forms. Performances will light up The Arches from lunchtime to midnight and Jazz Village from 3 pm to midnight on Friday and Saturday. On Sunday, the festival slows down with the Sunday Slowdown, featuring intimate music experiences scattered throughout the village along the scenic Montreux Mile. For the full lineup and ticket information, visit Montreux Jazz Festival’s website.
Phola Cape Town
29 March Cabo Beach Club
South Africa’s most premium daytime lifestyle event is back, and this time, PHOLA closes off the summer season with a 10/10 show you don’t want to miss. Expect world-class music in one of Cape Town’s most stunning settings. The line-up includes TKZee, Amaroto, Kentphonik, Kelvin Momo, Morda, Shakes & Les B2B Uncool MC. Get your tickets via Howler.
Social Chess Club
Every Wednesday Fool’s Gold Social Bar
Chess lovers, it’s time to make your move. Every Wednesday from 5–9pm, this Stellenbosch bar transforms into a buzzing social chess club. Your perfect midweek gambit, expect open boards, sharp tactics, and friendly competition as players go head-to-head, testing their strategy from opening move to endgame. More details here.
RABAT, Morocco, 19th January 2026 -/African Media Agency(AMA)/-As the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Morocco 2025 unfolded, TECNO, Official Global Partner of the tournament, was actively extending the matchday experience beyond stadiums and screens through a series of Technology Carnival activations and offline watching parties that took place across multiple African countries.
Launched alongside the tournament and running throughout the AFCON competition period until 18 January 2026, these activations were designed as immersive, fan-first experiences that brought football, technology and entertainment together in public spaces, retail locations and pop-up venues.
Across North Africa, Sub-Saharan Africa and key AFCON markets, fans gathered at TECNO-organized watching parties featuring live match screenings, interactive product displays, AI-powered demonstrations, performance shows, interactive games, lucky draws and temporary pop-up stores. These shared spaces allowed visitors to engage with TECNO’s AI ecosystem while celebrating the collective energy, emotion and passion that defined African football culture.
At each activation, TECNO showcased how AI-driven technology enhanced the way fans experienced the game, from understanding match dynamics to capturing and sharing standout moments. Visitors discovered TECNO smartphones and devices in hands-on environments, exploring features designed to make football moments clearer, smarter and more immersive.
AFCON Retail Events Deployed Throughout the Tournament
Running in parallel with the offline watching parties, TECNO also rolled out a wide range of AFCON-themed retail events, which were active across multiple countries and continued until 18 January, with schedules adapted to local markets.
These in-store activations translated the excitement of AFCON directly into everyday shopping experiences through interactive consumer mechanics, including :
Cashback promotions via lucky draw on selected devices such as POP 10, SPARK 40 and CAMON 40
Points-based rewards through TECNO’s Points Mall
Interactive AFCON TECNO AI Analysis experiences that allowed fans to explore AI-driven insights around ongoing matches
“Rank Your Own AFCON Team” challenges, encouraging fans to build and debate their ideal tournament line-ups
Additional localized games, giveaways and fan engagement activities
By integrating football culture into retail environments, TECNO ensured that fans remained connected to the tournament not only during match time, but throughout their daily routines.
Making AFCON a More Participatory Experience Through AI
These Technology Carnival activations reflected TECNO’s broader ambition to make football more participatory, more interactive and more emotionally engaging. Rather than positioning AI as a distant technology, TECNO presented it as an intuitive companion that enhanced how fans followed matches, relived key moments and expressed their passion throughout the tournament.
As an Official Partner of the Confederation of African Football, TECNO activated across stadiums, fan zones, retail spaces and communities, ensuring that AFCON 2025 was experienced not only as a competition, but as a continent-wide cultural celebration powered by TECNO AI.
As the tournament came to a close and momentum peaked during the final stages, TECNO’s Technology Carnival emerged as a powerful demonstration of how technology, football and community came together, transforming every match, reaction and celebration into a moment worth powering.
The iconic Cape Town Minstrel Carnival returns to the Mother City on 5 January 2026.
Now known as the Hollywoodbets Cape Town Street Parade, this annual event is the longest existing carnival in the city and is an integral part of the city’s cultural heritage. Historically this celebration took place on 2 January aka Tweede Nuwe Jaar and the minstrels were to referred to as the Kaapse Klopse – this celebration the Mother City’s biggest event to usher in the New Year.
What To Expect at the Cape Town Minstrel Carnival
Thousands of minstrels in glittery uniforms from a variety of troupes with face paint, hats and parasols march through the city’s roads, playing their signature “ghoema” music on banjos, trumpets and drums. The troupes are spaced out so that each performance happens separately, allowing onlookers to hear each troupe. There is also a structure to each troupe, with non-instrument playing members called “voorlopertjies” leading the way with extravagant dance moves while the band provides the backing soundtrack.
Among this year’s troupe lineup you will see Original D6 Hanover Minstrels, Mitchells Plain Young Tycoons, Phantoms Community Development, Ashwin Willemse Orient Community Development, Young Wild Comanches, Manenberg Superstars, Carnival Boys Youth Development (also known as Crystal Palace), Wild Apache, Baruch Entertainers, CPT Hawkers, Fabulous Seawind Entertainers, and many more.
Experience The Magic
The parade is set to attract a crowd of 80,000 to 100,000 spectators, eager to experience over 16 minstrel troupes and 20,000 performers.
The parade will begin at the corner of Somerset Rd and Dixon St. The route will follow along Somerset Rd all the way to the DHL Stadium.
Road Closures
To accommodate the parade and ensure public safety, several roads will be closed from 6am on Monday, 5 January to Tuesday, 6 January 2026.
Affected streets include:
Street/Road
Restriction
Between
Closure Time
Opening Time
Main Rd
Full Closure (residential access lane between Upper Portswood Rd & Highfield Rd)
York Rd
Buitengracht Street
06h00
23h59
Prestwich Street
Full Closure
Alfred St Granger
Chiappini Street
06h00
23h59
Somerset Road
East Bound closure
Bay Blvd Granger
Granger Bay Blvd
06h00
23h59
Fritz Sonnenberg
Full Closure
Bay Blvd Granger
Rd Portswood
06h00
23h59
Somerset Road
Full Closure
Bay Blvd
Buitengracht St
06h00
23h59
Ebenezer Road
Full Closure (Hotel Access only)
Prestwich St Javis
RD Somerset
06h00
23h59
De Smit Street
Full Closure
St Napier St Javis
Somerset RD
06h00
23h59
Moreland Terrace
Full Closure
St Schiebe St
Somerset RD
06h00
23h59
Napier Street
Full Closure
Dixon St
Somerset RD
06h00
23h59
Alfred Street
Full Closure
Prestwich St
Somerset RD
06h00
23h59
Dixon Street
Full Closure
Strand St
Javis St
06h00
23h59
Chiappini Street
Full Closure
Prestwich St
Somerset RD
06h00
23h59
Chiappini Street
Full Closure
Napier St Liddle
Somerset RD
06h00
23h59
Alfred Street
Full Closure (Hotel Access only)
St Beach Rd
Schiebe St
06h00
23h59
Prestwich Street
Full Closure
Portswood Rd
St Alfred
06h00
23h59
Cobern St
Full Closure
Granger Bay Blvd
Somerset Rd
06h00
23h59
Granger Bay Blvd
East Bound Carriage Closure
Helen Suzman
Helen Suzman
06h00
23h59
Fort Wynyard St
Full Closure
Blvd
Granger Bay Blvd
12h00
23h59
Fritz Sonnenberg
Full Closure
Beach Rd
Vlei Road
Full Closure
Fritz Sonnenberg Rd
12h00
23h59
Local access and permit holders:
Street/Road
Restriction
Between
Closure Time
Opening Time
Main Road
Permit Holders Only
Granger Bay Blvd
Three Anchor Bay Blvd
06h00
23h59
Granger Bay Blvd
Permit Holders Only
Helen Suzman Blvd
York Rd
06h00
23h59
Ebenezer Road
Permit Holders Only
Port RD
Prestwich St
06h00
23h59
Bennett Street
Permit Holders Only
Port RD
Prestwich St
06h00
23h59
Hudson Street
Permit Holders Only
Waterkant Street
Somerset RD
06h00
23h59
Hudson Street
Local Access Only
Hudson St
Strand St
06h00
23h59
Vos Street
Local Access Only
Vos St
Strand St
06h00
23h59
Rose Street
Local Access Only
Rose St
Strand St
06h00
23h59
Waterkant
Local Access Only
Buitengracht St
Waterkant St
06h00
23h59
Cavalcade Road
Local Access Only
York Rd
Upper Portswood Rd
06h00
23h59
Thornhill Road
Local Access Only
Cavalcade Rd
Upper Portswood Rd
06h00
23h59
Entry
The HollywoodBets Cape Town Street Parade is free for the public. Follow Cape Town Street Parade on Facebook, Instagram, and X, for the latest updates on the start route and other information.
Cape Town welcomes 2026 on a high note – January is peak summer, and the city comes alive with an unbeatable mix of concerts, festivals, sport, culture and outdoor experiences. From iconic events like the Cape Town Minstrels Street Parade and the King’s Plate to international music tours, open-air theatre and cricket at Newlands.
Cats, the Musical
2-11 January 2026 Artscape Theatre, Cape Town
Pieter Toerien and GWB Entertainment in association with Cape Town Opera by arrangement with The Really Useful Group presents CATS. Andrew Lloyd Webber’s world-famous musical Cats brings iconic songs, choreography and theatrical magic to the Artscape stage. Tickets from R180 on Webtickets.
WAV Festival by AfroNation
2 January 2026 Green Point Track, Cape Town
A festival R&B lovers cannot miss! Amapiano’s Kelvin Momo brings his deep, emotional sound to the festival, while Shekinah’s golden voice is set to light up the stage. The lineup also includes Mariah the Scientist, Wale, Langa Mavuso, and Kujenga. Cape Town, get ready for a high-energy stadium showcase featuring the best in R&B. Find ticket information here.
Milk & Cookies Festival
3 January 2026 Kenilworth Racecourse, Cape Town
This multi-genre festival celebrates music, food, and community. From amapiano to R&B, house to hip-hop, Milk and Cookies blends global sounds with local culture for one unforgettable celebration. Vibrant stages, curated food vendors, immersive art installations, and the kind of energy that turns a crowd into a community – it’s a gathering where culture, connection, and creativity meet. For tickets go to Howler’s website and for more information visit the official page here.
BLANCHE – a luxury daytime event
4 January 2026 The Terrace Rooftop, Salt River
Step into the New Year with Blanche; an All-white outdoor celebration, curated by AfroFuture and PVO. This signature experience blends live music, an unmatched atmosphere, and the most vibrant crowd. Presented by Martell, set against Cape Town’s stunning backdrop. Click here for ticket information.
Freshlyground Reunion Concert
4, 11, 18 January 2026 Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden
Freshlyground reunites for a special open-air concert at Kirstenbosch, delivering feel-good hits in one of Cape Town’s most popular outdoor venues. Find more information and ticket information.
Cape Town Minstrels Street Parade
5 January 2026 Somerset Road & Fan Walk, Green Point
The iconic Cape Town Minstrel Carnival returns to the Mother City on 5 January 2026. The annual event fills the streets with colour, music and tradition, continuing into DHL Stadium for the Kaapse Klopse Choral Competition. Tap here for the latest event information.
St Tropez presents: Uncle Waffles – The ultimate day time escape
5 January 2026 Cabo Beach Club, Cape Town
Turn on the glitz and glamour at this epic Cabo Beach experience. Headlined by global sensation Uncle Waffles, expect nothing less than an unforgettable day of pulsating beats, high-energy performances, and pure sophistication. The event promises world-class local DJs spinning infectious sounds that keep the energy flowing from noon until sunset. Get your tickets now.
MI Cape Town vs Joburg Super Kings
6 January 2026 Newlands Cricket Grounds
Catch SA20 cricket action as MI Cape Town face the Joburg Super Kings at the historic Newlands Cricket Ground. For ticket info, email info@ticketpro.co.za or visit the website here.
Cape Town Jazzathon
9-11 January 2026 Amphitheatre, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town
Celebrating its 29th anniversary this year, the Cape Town Jazzathon is South Africa’s longest-running music festival. Often referred to as “The People’s Festival,” the event will feature performances daily, from 12.30pm to 8pm. Enjoy a rich variety of styles including Afro Jazz, Cape Jazz, Hip Hop, R&B, Reggae, Neo Soul, and Straight Ahead packed into three days of non-stop entertainment… and its free!!! Learn more.
L’Ormarins King’s Plate
10 January 2026 Hollywoodbets Kenilworth Racecourse
The Running of the 165th King’s Plate – the L’Ormarins King’s Plate is one of South Africa’s most prestigious horse racing events, combining elite racing, high fashion and a vibrant atmosphere. The King’s Plate is a totally blue and white affair where guests can enjoy some of the country’s best racing, wine, food, antique car displays and renowned after party in the peak of Cape Town’s summer. Tickets start from R600. For more information visit here.
Maynardville Open-Air Festival
From 13 January 2026 Maynardville Park, Wynberg
Cape Town’s premier open-air theatre experience returns, featuring live performances in a magical forest setting. Opening on 13 January, the Shades of Blue Chamber Concert will feature music from composers influenced by the rhythms and harmonies of jazz. Next up is Jazz in the Park (14 to 15 Jan), a new two-day celebration featuring local jazz legends from Cape Town’s rich jazz tradition. From 16 to 17 January, another crowd-favourite Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra returns with a stirring classical programme. See the full festival programme.
Calum Scott – The Avenoir Tour
14 January 2026 Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden
International singer-songwriter Calum Scott performs live at Kirstenbosch as part of his global Avenoir Tour. Gates open at 6pm. Concert starts 7pm. For more information, go to Big Concert’s website.
Sheer City Festival
17-18 January 2026 Harrington Street Precinct
Sheer City is launching its inaugural two-day inner-city festival bringing together Cape Town’s most influential underground nightlife crews with international acts like Horse Meat Disco, Tama Sumo & Lakuti, Make A Dance, Freudenthal, and more. It’s a multi-venue, walkable block party across Harrington Street and the City Bowl fringe, a celebration of Cape Town’s creative pulse, queer culture, music, fashion, performance, and community. Expect six venues, over twenty artists, a full weekend immersion in the city’s next cultural moment.
Sheer Drop at Texas – 2pm to 10pm
Sheer Delight at The Electric – 5pm to 2am
Sheer Disco at Harringtons – 6pm to 4am
Sheer D.O.G at Zer021 Social – 8pm to 4am
Sheer Assembly at District – 8pm to 4am
Sheer Dive at Surfa Rosa – 9pm to 4am
Long, lazy afternoons, cool beats and Cape Town’s most iconic views. Summer at Durbanville Hills is super chilled, and with it, the popular cellar’s much-loved Sundaze Summer Series. DJ Stefanos will be spinning tracks from 2pm to 6pm while you enjoy crisp wines, cocktails, craft beer, wine slushies, and a mouth-watering selection of eats from the Olive Grove Bistro. Set against panoramic vistas of Table Bay and Table Mountain, Sundaze is the perfect way to vibe with friends and family. Tickets cost R100pp and available via Webtickets.
Shxtsngigs: Daddy’s Home – South Africa Tour
27 January 2026 Grand Arena, GrandWest, Cape Town
The viral podcast duo James and Fuhad bring their Daddy’s Home live show to Cape Town, blending comedy, culture and crowd interaction. Whether you’re a die-hard Cult Baby or just discovering the podcast that’s racked up millions of streams and laughs worldwide, this live experience is your chance to see the boys like never before – live, loud, and uncut. Tickets from R440 via Ticketmaster.
DHL Stormers vs Vodacom Blue Bulls
27 January 2026 DHL Stadium, Cape Town
Get ready for a major rugby showdown as the DHL Stormers face the Vodacom Blue Bulls in one of the season’s most anticipated fixtures. Cape Town is set to bring the gees – get your tickets today on the Stormer’s website.
World Sports Betting Cape Town Met
31 January 2026 Hollywoodbets Kenilworth Racecourse
Prepare for the grand return of the World Sports Betting Cape Town Met, where the thrill of elite horse racing converges with a multisensory celebration unlike any other. The 2026 theme Symphony of Style combines fashion, music, and immersive moments. Book your tickets via Computicket.
Lady Gaga gave a free concert in Rio de Janeiro on Saturday night in front of at least a million fans who poured onto Copacabana Beach for the biggest show of her career. The Mother Monster, as she is known, kicked off the show at around 22:10 p.m. local time with her 2011 song “Bloody Mary.” Cries of joy rose from the tightly-packed fans who sang and danced shoulder-to-shoulder on the vast stretch of sand. Lady Gaga performed her classic hits, including “Poker Face” and “Alejandro,” switching between an array of dresses including one with the colours of the Brazilian flag. Madonna also turned Copacabana Beach into a massive dance floor last year.
The large-scale performances are part of an effort led by City Hall to boost economic activity after Carnival and New Years’ Eve festivities and the upcoming month-long Saint John’s Day celebrations in June. Rio’s City Hall said in a recent report that around 1.6 million people were expected to attend Lady Gaga’s concert and that the show should inject at least 600 million reais (some $106 million) into Rio’s economy. Similar concerts are scheduled to take place every year in May at least until 2028. Lady Gaga arrived in Rio in the early hours of Tuesday.
The city has been alive with Gaga-mania since, as it geared up to welcome the pop star for her first show in the country since 2012. Rio’s metro employees danced to Lady Gaga’s 2008 hit song “LoveGame” and gave instructions for Saturday in a video. A free exhibition celebrating her career sold out. While the vast majority of attendees were from Rio, the event also attracted Brazilians from across the country and international visitors.
More than 500,000 tourists poured into the city in the days leading up to the show, more than double the initial forecast, according to data from the local bus station and Tom Jobim airport, Rio’s City Hall said in a statement on Friday. Rio officials have a history of organizing huge concerts on Copacabana Beach. Madonna’s show drew an estimated 1.6 million fans last year, while 4 million people flooded onto the beach for a 1994 New Year’s Eve show by Rod Stewart in 1994.
According to Guinness World Records, that was the biggest free rock concert in history. To ensure fans could hear the songs, sixteen sound towers were spread along the beach. Rio state’s security plan included the presence of 3,300 military and 1,500 police officers, and 400 military firefighters.
At least 14 people have been killed after a vehicle ploughed into crowds watching bikers at a popular carnival in Nigeria.
The incident which occurred in the southern port city of Calabar left 24 others injured. Eyewitnesses said that a speeding driver lost control of the car.
The police said a drunk driver – who has been arrested – had lost control of the car and ploughed into the crowd.
Cross River State Governor Prof Ben Ayade cancelled the rest of the bikers’ parade and called for an immediate investigation.
A statement signed by the Special Adviser on Media and Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Christian Ita, said an immediate investigation and arrest of the motorist who is on the run has been ordered.
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Pictures shared online in the immediate aftermath of the incident show bodies strewn across the street.
The month-long annual carnival, which features several events, has become a big draw since it was launched in 2004.
Dubbed Africa’s biggest street party, it attracts local and foreign tourists throughout December.
Tuesday’s incident took place during the popular bikers’ parade on one of the major carnival routes which had been closed to vehicle traffic.
The event features riders, including celebrities, from across the country, some adorned in colourful costumes, performing stunts.
1, 15, 29 March 
Clarke’s at 133 Bree Street
