CAPE TOWN ESSENTIALS
Going out & Festivals
And now for the party animals among us (just like us). Cape Town is not only the perfect place for sun, sea and nature, but also for going out and festivals. Here are some places to go out and the best festivals that are definitely worth it, as long as they fall within your visit period.
Tip: keep an eye on the website www.howler.co.za for the best events!
Festivals
Wolfkop Weekender
Wolfkop Weekender is a glamping festival in the middle of the Cederberg nature and incredibly popular among the Dutch. The festival offers a unique combination of an intimate atmosphere, good techno/house music and beautiful people at the Wolfkop River. During the day everyone enjoys themselves on the water in an inflatable tire with a drink in their hand and in the evening you can party at 3 stages. By the way, a very queer-friendly festival! We thought this was an amazing experience and was definitely one of our highlights during our stay. We definitely hope to be able to go there again.
When:
Wolfkop Weekender usually takes place in the South African summer. We went in January. Check their official website for the exact dates. The festival starts on Thursday and everyone leaves the glamping on Monday morning. It is also possible to buy a separate Sunday ticket, but we would not advise this as it is quite a long drive and the party ends on Sunday at 00:00 (on Saturday at 04:00).
Cost:
Ticket prices vary depending on the experience you choose. For a basic ticket you can expect to pay around R1,500 - R2,000 per person for the weekend, with additional costs for a luxury glamping experience or extra VIP facilities.
Location:
Cederberg, approximately 2-3 hours drive from Cape Town.
Field Of Love
Field of Love is a laid-back festival, organised by the people behind Habitat, focusing on electronic music, house, techno and psytrance. The festival offers a diverse line-up of DJs, a magical location and an intimate atmosphere where you can party like no other. Held in extraordinary locations around Cape Town, the energy is always undeniable.
When:
The festival usually takes place in the summer months (especially January/February), so check their Instagram for the latest updates and dates!
Cost:
Ticket prices for Field of Love vary, but you can expect to pay between R400 - R800 for a standard ticket, with a VIP ticket usually costing between R1,000 - R1,500.
Venue:
The location changes each year, but the festival is often held in natural settings around Cape Town, such as gardens, mountainous areas or unique outdoor locations.
CTEMF
The Cape Town Electronic Music Festival (CTEMF) is one of the largest electronic music festivals in Cape Town and features a stellar line-up of local and international artists. We have never been to this festival ourselves, so we cannot speak from personal experience. The festival focuses mainly on house, techno and bass music, and has undeniably put the city on the world map for decades.
When:
The festival usually takes place in February and attracts thousands of visitors from all over the world.
Cost:
Ticket prices start at R400 for a day ticket, and can go up to R1,000 - R1,500 for VIP tickets.
Venue:
Usually at the City Bowl or another central location in Cape Town, such as the V&A Waterfront.
Rocking the Daisies
Rocking the Daisies is one of the biggest music festivals in South Africa. We’ve never been to it ourselves, but it’s a great choice for anyone who enjoys live music. The festival has a line-up focused on alternative rock, indie and electro bands, and also offers a range of other fun activities, such as art fairs, yoga sessions and workshops. Located in the Ceres Valley, Rocking the Daisies offers a unique festival experience.
When:
Usually held in October, Rocking the Daisies attracts thousands of visitors and is one of the most popular festivals in South Africa.
Cost:
Ticket prices for the weekend range from R1,200 - R2,500 depending on ticket and accommodation choice.
Location:
Ceres Valley, approximately 2 hours drive from Cape Town.
Going Out
The nightlife in Cape Town is fun, but it does require a bit more planning than you might be used to in Europe. In Cape Town, there is no standard nightlife street where you can hop from club to bar. Moreover, it is not safe to just walk around everywhere at night. So find out in advance what the nice places are to go to.
The Athletic Club & Social
A stylish bar and club spread over three floors, with a beautiful art deco style. Here you can enjoy delicious cocktails, live music and a relaxed atmosphere. Perfect for an evening of chic drinks and dancing. Tip: Book a table in advance if you want to dine before the dancing starts!
Location: 35 Buitengracht St, Cape Town.
Modular Club
A great place to go if you like electronic music. Modular is known for its underground vibe. Great place for a night of techno and house in an intimate setting. Please note: your phone camera will be covered upon entry!
Location: 34 Riebeek St, Cape Town.
Fiction
A fun club on Long Street, popular with locals and backpackers. Fiction is known for its great mix of alternative and electronic music. For a relaxed vibe and a diverse crowd, and a nice place to start your night before heading to another club.
Location: 226 Long St, Cape Town
Fiction
A fun club on Long Street, popular with locals and backpackers. Fiction is known for its great mix of alternative and electronic music. For a relaxed vibe and a diverse crowd, and a nice place to start your night before heading to another club.
Location: 226 Long St, Cape Town
Fiction
A fun club on Long Street, popular with locals and backpackers. Fiction is known for its great mix of alternative and electronic music. For a relaxed vibe and a diverse crowd, and a nice place to start your night before heading to another club.
Location: 226 Long St, Cape Town