Cape Minstrels Carnival, 2 January
What to expect: Each year on the 2nd of January, also known as 'Tweede Nuwe Jaar', the Bo Kaap throws a big street party, in the centre of Cape Town city centre. Dressed in colourful, shiny suits, hats and sun umbrellas, the spirit of the Cape Minstrels continues to fascinate both tourists and locals alike. Make sure you get down to the city to see the minstrels in action!
Website: www.capetown-minstrels.co.za
L’Ormarins Queen’s Plate
What to expect: Having quickly become the place to be seen in the Mother City, the L’Ormarins Queen’s Plate is a smaller and more exclusive event than the J&B Met and is held two to three weeks before the big race every year. Dress code is smart / elegant and must adhere to the white and blue of the event.
Website: https://lqp.co.za/
Fairview Attakwas Extreme MTB Challenge
What to expect: Not for the faint of heart, this mountain bike race lives up to the extreme in its name, a 121-km route through the Attakwas in Oudtshoorn, with almost 3000m of climbing, making it one of the toughest races in the country. For those less hardy souls, you can line up for the ‘mini’ 52km route and join the extreme cyclists for the last 15km.
Website: http://www.atta.co.za/
Up the Creek Music Festival, 25-28 January
What to expect: Pack your bikinis, board shorts, and make sure you’re prepared to get wet – it’s time for the Up the Creek Music Festival! The festival has three stages – the Main Stage, River Stage and Late-night Stage – to ensure you are entertained throughout the day, and night, and while Rock n Roll is the festival’s music of choice, there will be pop, indie folk, DJs and even the odd violin solo to keep you on your toes! Plenty of food, entertainment and more to keep you parting right through the weekend.
Website: https://www.upthecreek.co.za/
Delheim Harvest Festival, 27 January
What to expect: The first wine festival of the year, the Delheim Wine Festival returns for one day only in 2018. There are only 120 seats available – so book now! – with one long harvest table creaking with sumptuous harvest fare. Tickets include a seat at the long table; a bottle of Delheim wine per couple; as well as grape-stomping action and live music. Kids welcome with a special table set up for the youngsters on the day.
Website: http://www.delheim.com/our-story/29-news-events/events-at-delheim/63-harvest-festival
Sun Met, 27 January
What to expect: Held on the last Saturday of January every year, the Sun Met is the jewel in the Cape horse racing calendar, attracting more than 50 000 spectators, lured by the horses, and of course, the fashion. Held at the Kenilworth Race Track, attending the Sun Met will give you an excuse to break out your most fashionable gear and end the first month of the New Year looking sharp. Just remember the sun block and to drink lots… of water.
Website: http://www.sunmet.co.za/
