If your weekend calendar is still looking empty, consider this your inspiration, writes Miriam Kimvangu.
Image used for illustrative purposes/Guillaume Grimaud/Unsplash
Whether you are in the mood for live music, browsing a market or discovering a new festival, several events across South Africa offer good reasons to step out of the house this weekend.
South African Tattoo Convention
📍 DHL Stadium, Cape Town
📅 13–15 March
The annual South African Tattoo Convention returns to Cape Town for a weekend celebrating tattoo artistry from around the world. More than a hundred international and local tattooists gather under one roof to showcase their work, with live tattoo sessions taking place throughout the event.
Visitors can also expect art exhibitions, tattoo competitions, merchandise stalls and plenty of opportunities to meet artists behind the ink. Even if you are not planning to get tattooed, it is an interesting window into contemporary tattoo culture and design.
🔗 More info: https://www.worldtattooevents.com/south-african-tattoo-convention/
AJABU Cocktail & Spirits Festival
📍 Various venues, Cape Town
📅 11–15 March
The AJABU Cocktail & Spirits Festival brings together some of the world’s best bartenders, distillers and drinks experts for several days of tastings, guest shifts and cocktail masterclasses. Events take place across bars and restaurants throughout Cape Town.
Expect inventive drinks, collaborations between international and South African bartenders and a programme that celebrates the creativity of Africa’s growing cocktail scene. Some sessions are geared towards industry professionals, while others are designed for curious visitors who simply enjoy a well-made drink.
Kirstenbosch Summer Sunset Concert
📍 Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, Cape Town
📅 Sunday, 15 March
The much-loved Kirstenbosch Summer Sunset Concerts series continues this weekend with a performance by acclaimed South African singer Thandiswa Mazwai.
Concertgoers gather on the lawns of Kirstenbosch with picnic blankets and baskets while music echoes across the slopes of Table Mountain. It is one of Cape Town’s most atmospheric live music settings and a relaxed way to spend a Sunday afternoon outdoors.
🔗 More info: https://www.sanbi.org/event/kirstenbosch-summer-sunset-concerts/
Market in the Park
📍 Cape Town
📅 Saturday, 14 March
If you prefer a slow Saturday morning, Market in the Park offers a laid-back outing with local food, craft stalls and live entertainment.
Browse handmade goods, sample street food and enjoy live music while exploring a rotating selection of vendors and artisans. It is family-friendly and ideal for anyone looking to spend a few relaxed hours outdoors.
🔗 More info: https://www.facebook.com/events/
Purified Cape Town
📍 Cabo Beach Club, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town
📅 Friday, 13 March
Electronic music fans can start the weekend early at Purified Cape Town, a beachfront party featuring international DJs and immersive production.
Held at Cabo Beach Club overlooking the harbour, the event blends sunset views with melodic house and electronic sets that continue late into the night.
🔗 More info: https://www.facebook.com/events/
Zabalaza Theatre Festival
📍 Baxter Theatre Centre, Cape Town
📅 From 14 March
The Zabalaza Theatre Festival is one of South Africa’s most important platforms for emerging theatre talent. Hosted annually at the Baxter Theatre Centre, the festival showcases new plays, experimental productions and short performances by rising playwrights and performers.
Audiences can expect bold storytelling and fresh perspectives, often reflecting contemporary social issues and everyday life in South Africa.
🔗 More info: https://www.baxter.co.za
Magnet Theatre Family Festival
📍 Magnet Theatre, Cape Town
📅 From 13 March
Families looking for creative activities can head to the Magnet Theatre Family Festival. The programme includes puppetry performances, storytelling, interactive workshops and theatre productions designed for children and parents.
It is an engaging introduction to the performing arts for younger audiences and a playful way to spend a morning or afternoon.
🔗 More info: https://magnettheatre.co.za
No matter your interests, chances are there is something happening nearby. A weekend adventure might be closer than you think.
Follow us on social media for more travel news, inspiration, and guides. You can also tag us to be featured.
TikTok | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter
ALSO READ:
Wildlife rehabilitation centres in Southern Africa you can visit responsibly
