There’s something about Cape Town in spring and early summer that makes the city feel electric. The days get longer, the energy ramps up, and the events calendar fills with the kind of festivals that turn weekends into memories. Whether you’re into music, books, beer, or a bit of everything, there’s a festival coming up with your name on it. Here are five worth marking on your calendar.
1. Capegate Craft Beer Festival (19 October 2025)
Cape Town might be famous for its incredible wines, but sometimes… sometimes a beer is all you’re looking for. So if you’re after a more casual, down-to-earth festival, the Capegate Craft Beer Festival is hard to beat.
Taking place at Capegate Shopping Centre in Brackenfell, this event showcases over 25 local breweries and craft cideries. Expect bold IPAs, rich stouts, fruity sours, and even a few creative surprises on tap. There’s also live music, food trucks, and games to keep the vibe light and lively. It’s a great pick for groups, couples, or anyone who just wants a relaxed afternoon tasting the best of the Cape’s craft beer scene. And yes, there’s a lot more than beer. Gin, rum, and even non-alcoholic options are available too.
2. Franschhoek Classic Car Festival (5 October 2025)
Fancy a little nostalgia with your weekend getaway? The Franschhoek Classic Car Festival brings together vintage car enthusiasts from across the country for a day of elegance, history, and gleaming chrome. Set against the stunning backdrop of Franschhoek’s vineyards and mountain views, this isn’t just about engines and bodywork – it’s a full-on experience.
You’ll see everything from beautifully restored 1950s convertibles to rare collector cars that you’ll likely never spot on the open road. It’s a great excuse to take a scenic drive, sip wine between car displays, and soak up a touch of old-world charm. Bonus: Franschhoek’s food scene is just as impressive as its engines, so come hungry.
3.Rocking the Daisies (31 October – 2 November 2025)
“But O’Two,” you say, “what about the music?”
If it’s dancing and live performances you’re after, look no further than Rocking the Daisies. This legendary South African music festival is a rite of passage for many, and it’s back in full swing this year. Held at Cloof Wine Estate, about an hour’s drive from Cape Town, the festival serves up a weekend of massive local and international acts across multiple stages, with genres ranging from hip-hop and indie to house and electronic.
Beyond the music, there’s great food, fashion pop-ups, art installations, and those moments that only happen at festivals, like watching the sun rise over a campsite with strangers who’ve suddenly become friends. If you’re planning to go, book tickets and accommodation early. They go fast.
4. Open Book Festival (4–8 September 2025)
If you’re the type who’d rather spend an afternoon discussing character arcs and poetry than crowd-surfing at a music fest, the Open Book Festival is perfect for you. Held across multiple venues in Cape Town, this literary celebration brings together local and international authors, poets, editors, and readers for a week of thoughtful conversation and storytelling.
Expect panel discussions, live readings, book launches, and even some interactive workshops. It’s the kind of festival where you might grab coffee next to your favourite author, or discover a new one altogether while browsing pop-up bookshops. Whether you’re deep into fiction, politics, memoir, or just curious, Open Book makes the world of words feel accessible and alive.
5. Darling Wildflower Show (19–21 September 2025)
Spring in the Western Cape is all about wildflowers, and no one celebrates them quite like the folks in Darling. The Darling Wildflower Show has been running for over a century and blends conservation, culture, and community in one very photogenic package.
Held at the Darling Golf Club, the festival features floral displays showcasing more than 1,200 species from the area, many of them endemic to the region. You’ll also find guided walks, live music, food stalls, and educational exhibits about local ecosystems. It’s a colourful, family-friendly weekend that combines the charm of a small-town fair with the awe of nature in full bloom. Plus, it’s a great excuse to explore Darling’s local markets, breweries, and cheese farms while you’re there.
Make a Weekend of It
No matter which festival grabs your attention, pairing it with a stay at O’Two is always a good idea. You can head out for a full day of festivities and return to a rooftop pool, spa treatments, and a luxurious bed just minutes from the city’s best spots. Spring and early summer in Cape Town are meant for exploring, celebrating, and finding joy in something new.
So check your calendar, grab some tickets, and make a plan. The season is just getting started!
