J and B Met: January
This horse-racing event is truly one of Cape Town’s extravaganzas. Each year, there is dress code, this year being “black, white and bling” and there are only a number of entrance tickets available.
Design Indaba Expo: February
For the tenth year running, this internationally acclaimed design conference is the platform for many would be designers, national and international.
Cape Argus Cycle Tour: March
Since 1978, this internationally known Cycle race has gained in popularity and prestige. It is hailed as one of the world’s finest races due to its amazing views and changes in gradients. Both skilled and unskilled riders can partake in the fun, but a certain level of fitness is required. The Argus Cycle Tour begins at one end of the Cape Peninsula and ends at the other.
Cape Town Jazz Festival: March
First established in 1999, this international festival is a meeting point of jazz musicians from all over the world. Within the Cape Town based venue are five stages, 40 international and African artists, all lining up to perform for two solid days.
Two Oceans Marathon: April
Without fail, this race takes place every 2nd weekend in April, over the Easter weekend, in Cape Town.
Grahamstown Festival: June/ July
The Grahamstown Festival is considered to be the second biggest festival in the world. During this time, the streets become a hive of creative activity as people, from all over the world, flock to be apart of the excitement. Grahamstown is also the home to Rhodes University, which also has one of the best drama schools in South Africa. During June/July, every available venue is booked solid with hundreds of plays, musicals, dance and all other types of thespian occupation.
Durban July: July
This horse race is South Africa’s equivalent to Britain’s Royal Ascot, where food, wine and dress are the main attractions of the day.
Knysna Oyster Festival: July
Beginning on the first Friday of every July, this festival runs for ten straight days. It began in 1983 and since then it has been jam-packed with activities and adventures for the whole family. The festival is a great favourite with holiday-makers and honeymooners.
Hermanus Whale Festival: September
Hermanus is considered to have the best land-based whale watching sites in the world. During a three week period, this small fishing village comes alive with theatre and other fascinating tourist activities.
Festival: Rocking the Daisies: October
An annual Cape Town Rock Festival held at the Cloof Wine Estate in Darling with a green message: 'Party hard, tread lightly'!
http://www.rockingthedaisies.com/
International Cinema Festival: November
During this festival, Over 130 films from more that 25 countries are viewed at 7 theatres in Cape Town.
The Volvo Ocean Race Cape Town Stopover: November
The Volvo Ocean Race, is the embodiment of a lifestyle and a showcase of cutting edge technology racing through the most hostile oceans on the planet.
http://www.volvooceanracecapetown.co.ca
The South African Golf Open Championships: December
This golfing tournament is the second oldest in the world. Championships are hosted by the Humewood Gofl Club in Port Elizabeth – on the Garden Route.
Franschhoek ‘Magic of Bubbles’ Cap Classique and Champagne Festival: December
The Franschhoek ‘Magic of Bubbles’ Cap Classique and Champagne Festival will be welcoming visitors from around the country to this annual social calendar highlight.