January in Cape Town is a magical time. The city is alive with summer energy, from sun-drenched beaches to world-class music festivals, sports clashes, and vibrant cultural happenings. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or a returning local looking to soak up the season, there’s no shortage of experiences to enjoy. From live concerts in botanical gardens to adrenaline-filled rugby derbies and curated beach volleyball sessions, Cape Town truly comes alive in January.
In this blog we cover…
-
Kirstenbosch Summer Sunset Concerts – Iconic music evenings set against the backdrop of the stunning botanical gardens.
-
Friends Who Volley – Sunset volleyball sessions on Clifton 1st Beach for players of all levels.
-
WAV Festival – A celebration of R&B through an African lens featuring international and local artists.
-
L’Ormarins King’s Plate – Cape Town’s premier horse racing event with fashion, food, and fine wine.
-
Cape Town Jazzathon – A three-day celebration of South African jazz and Afro-fusion music at the V&A Waterfront.
-
Shxtsngigs | Daddy’s Home – International comedy duo bringing a live, chaotic, and hilarious show to Cape Town.
-
WSB Cape Town Met – A stylish, immersive horse racing and lifestyle experience at Kenilworth.
-
BLOND:ISH presents Abracadabra – An energetic music and lifestyle event with summer vibes and signature sound.
-
Milk & Cookies Festival – Hip hop extravaganza headlined by Gunna, bringing international flair to Cape Town.
-
Sport Highlights – Rugby and football fixtures including DHL Stormers matches and Cape Town City FC games.
Entertainment Highlights
Kirstenbosch Summer Sunset Concerts
One of Cape Town’s most iconic summer events, the Kirstenbosch Summer Sunset Concerts combine music, nature, and magical sunsets in one unforgettable experience. Held in the renowned Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, these concerts are perfect for a relaxed evening with friends or family. Pack a picnic, pre-order from the Tea Room or Moyo Restaurant, or grab snacks from food trucks scattered across the garden.
January’s line-up promises excitement: Goldfish on 4 January will bring their infectious blend of house, pop, jazz, and African sounds. On 11 January, Belinda Davids delivers a spine-tingling tribute to Whitney Houston in The Greatest Love of All. Finally, 18 January features Freshlyground and Manana, a cross-generational musical celebration that turns the gardens into a festival of rhythm and harmony.
Cost: R255 – R360 | When: 4, 11 & 18 January 2026 at 17:15 (Gates open at 16:00)
Where: Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, Rhodes Dr, Newlands, Cape Town
Friends Who Volley
If your visit coincides with a Thursday, head to Clifton 1st Beach for Friends Who Volley, a fun, social volleyball initiative held every spring and summer. This open-call event encourages friendly competition, teamwork, and plenty of laughter. Each game requires five players per team, with a simple rotation system keeping the energy high and participation flowing.
This free event also encourages respect for the beach environment, keeping it clean and welcoming for everyone. It’s a fantastic way to meet locals, enjoy the sunset, and experience Cape Town’s summer vibes.
Cost: Free | When: Every Thursday until March 2026
Where: Clifton 1st Beach, Victoria Rd, Clifton, Cape Town
WAV Festival
The debut WAV Festival on 2 January 2026 promises to redefine R&B with a uniquely African twist. Set against Cape Town’s stunning coastal backdrop at Green Point Track, WAV brings together a powerhouse line-up, including Mariah The Scientist, Kelvin Momo, Shekhinah, Manana, Nanette, Kujenga, and Strictly Soul Hour featuring Akio & Yandani.
More than a music festival, WAV is a cultural experience, a celebration of sound, style, and creativity that bridges global R&B with African spirit.
Cost: R1050 (GA) – R1680 (Golden Circle) | When: 2 January 2026
Where: Green Point Track, 11 Fritz Sonnenberg Rd, Green Point, Cape Town
L’Ormarins King’s Plate
For horse racing enthusiasts and lovers of summer glamour, the L’Ormarins King’s Plate on 10 January is a highlight. The event blends elite horse racing, fine wine, culinary experiences, antique car displays, and a lively after-party.
General admission grants access to the Style Lounge Village, complete with a glass of Methode Cap Classique, while VIP guests enjoy Stud Club access, private bars, cocktail seating, and exclusive Anthonij Rupert wine offerings.
Cost: R600 (Style Lounge Village) – R1 800 (Stud Club) | When: 10 January 2026
Where: Hollywoodbets Kenilworth, 109 Rosmead Ave, Kenilworth, Cape Town
Cape Town Jazzathon
Celebrating its 29th anniversary, the Cape Town Jazzathon from 9–11 January at the V&A Waterfront Amphitheatre is a three-day festival showcasing South Africa’s finest jazz, Afro Jazz, Cape Jazz, Hip Hop, and Neo Soul talents. Known as the People’s Festival, it offers free performances and celebrates the country’s rich cultural heritage through music.
Cost: Free | When: 9 – 11 January 2026, 13:00 – 20:00
Where: V&A Waterfront Amphitheatre, Cape Town
Shxtsngigs | Daddy’s Home
James and Fuhad of Shxtsngigs bring their unapologetically hilarious live show to South Africa for the first time on 27 January at the Grand Arena, Grand West. Expect unfiltered storytelling, viral moments, and chaotic energy that makes this event more than just a comedy show; it’s a full-blown experience for fans of the podcast and newcomers alike.
Cost: R350 – R650 | When: 27 January 2026 at 20:00
Where: Grand Arena, Grand West, Cape Town
WSB Cape Town Met
On 31 January, the World Sports Betting Cape Town Met at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth delivers a multisensory spectacle combining horse racing, fashion, music, and immersive entertainment. With the theme Symphony of Style, this event transforms horse racing into a theatrical, elegant experience.
Cost: From R200 | When: 31 January 2026, 11:00 – 00:00
Where: Hollywoodbets Kenilworth, Cape Town
BLOND:ISH presents Abracadabra
Also on 31 January, BLOND:ISH brings Abracadabra to The Ostrich in Cape Town. The event combines music, movement, and summer vibes in an energetic, immersive experience designed to leave attendees feeling uplifted and alive.
Cost: R450 – R1200 | When: 31 January 2026, 14:00 – 02:00
Where: The Ostrich, Cape Town
Milk & Cookies Festival
American rap sensation Gunna headlines the Milk & Cookies Festival on 3 January at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth, supported by DJ Kent and other acts. The festival is a must for hip hop fans seeking international-level performances in Cape Town.
Cost: R550 (GA) – R900 (VIP) | When: 3 January 2026
Where: Hollywoodbets Kenilworth, 109 Rosmead Ave, Kenilworth, Cape Town
Sport
Cape Town’s January calendar isn’t just about music and festivals, the city also offers a thrilling lineup of rugby and football events. With high-stakes matches and local rivalries, sports fans have plenty to look forward to this summer.
DHL Stormers vs Vodacom Bulls
The North-South Derby kicks off on 3 January at DHL Stadium, where the DHL Stormers face the Vodacom Bulls. This iconic fixture blends decades of rivalry with city pride, delivering a match filled with intensity, skill, and unforgettable moments. Fans can expect fast-paced action, spectacular tries, and a stadium atmosphere buzzing with energy.
Cost: R250 – R650 | When: 3 January 2026 at 14:00
Where: DHL Stadium
DHL Stormers vs Hollywoodbets Sharks
On 24 January, the Stormers take on the Hollywoodbets Sharks in the coastal derby, also at DHL Stadium. Former Springboks Siya Kolisi and Bongi Mbonambi return to Cape Town for this fixture, adding extra excitement. With crucial points on the line in the Vodacom United Rugby Championship, the game promises fierce competition, high-quality rugby, and passionate support from the stands.
Cost: R250 – R650 | When: 24 January 2026 at 19:00
Where: DHL Stadium
Cape Town City FC vs University of Pretoria
Football enthusiasts can catch Cape Town City FC hosting the University of Pretoria on 27 January at Athlone Stadium. This Matchday 16 encounter in the Motsepe Foundation Championship marks the first meeting between these sides in Cape Town since Tuks’ relegation in the 2015/16 season. Expect tactical gameplay, lively local support, and a thrilling atmosphere for anyone keen on South African football.
Cost: R150 – R300 | When: 27 January 2026 at 15:30
Where: Athlone Stadium
Final Thoughts
From iconic live music and adrenaline-fuelled sports to sun-drenched outdoor activities, Cape Town in January 2026 is brimming with experiences to remember. Whether you’re visiting for the culture, the tunes, or the energy, there’s always something happening in the Mother City. For those planning to stay nearby and make the most of it, Nox Cape Town offers a selection of premium holiday rentals, perfectly located to enjoy all the city has to offer.
FAQ – Cape Town January 2026 Events & Sport
Q: What are the top events to attend in Cape Town in January 2026?
A: Highlights include the Kirstenbosch Summer Sunset Concerts, WAV Festival, Cape Town Jazzathon, BLOND:ISH Abracadabra, Milk & Cookies Festival, Shxtsngigs | Daddy’s Home, L’Ormarins King’s Plate, and the WSB Cape Town Met.
Q: Are there family-friendly events in Cape Town?
A: Yes! Many concerts and festivals are suitable for families, such as Kirstenbosch Summer Sunset Concerts, the Cape Town Jazzathon, and Friends Who Volley at Clifton 1st Beach.
Q: Do I need tickets for events?
A: Most concerts, festivals, and horse racing events require tickets. Popular events like WAV Festival, BLOND:ISH Abracadabra, and Kirstenbosch Summer Sunset Concerts can sell out quickly. Free options include Friends Who Volley and the Cape Town Jazzathon.
Q: Are sporting events open to tourists?
A: Absolutely. Rugby matches like DHL Stormers vs Vodacom Bulls and DHL Stormers vs Hollywoodbets Sharks, as well as football games with Cape Town City FC, are welcoming to visitors. Stadiums provide safe seating, and match-day atmospheres are lively and exciting.
Q: How do I get to these events?
A: Most venues are easily accessible by car, rideshare, or public transport. Popular venues, such as Kirstenbosch, Hollywoodbets Kenilworth, and DHL Stadium, can get busy, so arriving early is recommended.
Q: Are there VIP or premium experiences available at events?
A: Yes! For horse racing events like L’Ormarins King’s Plate and WSB Cape Town Met, VIP and Stud Club access offer private bars, lounge seating, and exclusive hospitality options. Some music festivals also offer premium ticketing with closer stage access and seating options.
Q: Are these events suitable for international visitors?
A: Definitely. Cape Town’s events attract both locals and international tourists. Most venues provide clear signage, English-language information, and a friendly, welcoming environment.
Q: What should I bring when attending these events?
A: Bring tickets (or confirmation), identification, cash or card for food and drinks, sunscreen, and comfortable clothing. For outdoor events, consider hats, sunglasses, and a light jacket in the evening.
Q: When is the best time to attend these events to avoid crowds?
A: For outdoor concerts and festivals, arrive early to secure good spots and parking. For stadium sporting events, arriving 30–60 minutes early is usually enough to settle in and avoid last-minute queues.
Q: Where can I stay to be close to January events?
A: Nox Cape Town offers premium holiday rentals across key areas like Camps Bay, Sea Point, and Kenilworth, keeping you close to music, festivals, comedy, and sporting action.