Festivals are more than just events — they’re vibrant celebrations that unite people through culture, art, music, and tradition. These gatherings create memorable experiences that resonate long after they end. In Western Cape this spirit comes alive through a rich and diverse festival calendar.
This October, explore and celebrate 8 exciting events and festivals - each offering a unique window into the Western Cape's landscapes, creativity, and warm-hearted communities.
Hermanus Whale Festival | Hermanus
Celebrate the return of the southern right whales at South Africa’s only eco-marine festival!
3-5 October 2025
📍 Hermanus
What to expect:
World-class whale watching from the cliffs
Live music & street parades
Food & wine stalls
Family-friendly fun
Eco-marine exhibitions & conservation talks
Click here for more information.
Plett Arts Festival | Plettenberg Bay
03 – 12 October 2025
📍 Various venues in and around Plettenberg Bay
Connect in Plett for 10 days of exhibitions, live music, performances, workshops, talks, and more — all set against the breathtaking Tsitsikamma backdrop and the coastal beauty of Plett.
Festival opens with the iconic Twilight Meander on Main Street: musicians on every corner, art installations, and legendary local hospitality.
Don’t miss:
- Plett Land Art Route — thought-provoking nature-based art
- Pop-up performances & surprise venues
Click here for more information.
Porterville Arts Weekend | Porterville, Weskus
3 – 5 October 2025
Ticket: Free entry
Porterville transforms into a walkable, creative showcase with over 40 artists in 11 venues, including historic buildings, private studios, farms and gardens.
What to expect:
- Exhibitions: painting, ceramics, textiles, sculpture & more
- Workshops & art talks
- Food stalls, markets & local produce
Click here for more information.
Porterville Gravel Race | Porterville
4 October 2025
📍 Porterville Show Grounds
A brand-new gravel & trail run event, hosted by Chain Gang Events, as part of the Art For All Festival.
Race Categories:
- 100km – “The Cexy”
- 60km – “The Contender” (e-bikes allowed)
- 35km – “The Flirt”
- 13km trail run
Pasta dinner, registration & festive prize-giving on the day!
Come for the ride, stay for the vibe.
Click here for more information.
Robertson Lenteskou | Robertson Show Grounds, Dirkie Uys Street
7 – 11 October 2025
🎟️ Tickets available on Web tickets (Children under 5 free)
Spring is in full bloom in Robertson! Enjoy 4 days of family fun with a full horse show programme, agricultural displays, food markets, craft stalls, rides, and live music
from local stars:
JAY, Christo en Cobus, Klawer, Liza Struwig, Michael Meiring, Armand Steenkamp
Great for families and wine lovers alike!
Click here for more information.
Garden Route Kite Festival | Sedgefield
12 October 2025
📍
Next to Scarab Village, Sedgefield
The skies above Sedgefield come alive at the annual Garden Route Kite Festival — a day of fresh air, colour, and community.
What’s in the air:
- Kites of every shape & size
- 50+ craft & food stalls
- Live music, kids’ activities & face painting
- Dog agility demos + meet adoptable KAWS puppies!
Click here for more information.
Whether you're a local or road-tripping through the Garden Route, this joyful event is a must.
Voorkamerfest | Darling Brew, 48 Caledon Street
18 – 19 October 2025
🎟️ R350 per route
A one-of-a-kind theatre experience
where locals open their living rooms as performance venues! Three surprise performances on each route, safely transported by local taxis.
What to expect:
- 21 "voorkamers" (front rooms)
- 60+ performers from SA & abroad
- Up-close and immersive theatre
- Max 25 people per venue
Click here for more information.
SAAI Karoo Landboufees | Laingsburg Sports Grounds
24 & 25 October 2025
Celebrate agriculture, innovation & community in the Central Karoo!
Programme Highlights:
- Opening ceremony with Dr. Ivan Meyer
- Expert agriculture panels
- Performances by W.G. Nel, Tino, Wilbur & Jay
- Farm stalls, food trucks, local crafts
- Family fun run
Click here for more information.
For a full list of events taking place in Cape Town and the Western Cape click here.
