Besides being one of the most beautiful cities in the world, the Mother City boasts a thriving music scene. From exciting Cape Town music events, live music venues, jazz bars, music festivals and incredible local musicians, there is something for every music lover to enjoy.
Here are some great ways to experience music in Cape Town and some great Cape Town music events that will have you on your feet and loving life.
1. Kirstenbosch Summer Sunset Concert Series
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The Kirstenbosch Summer Sunset Concert Series has fast become one of the most sought-after Cape Town music events. And definitely one of the most fun and exciting too! November every year marks the start of the Kirstenbosch Summer Sunset Concerts, which takes place every Sunday between November and April. The events have fast become a real summer staple in Cape Town and make for some of the best evenings you can possibly have in the Mother City. It is undoubtedly one of the best ways to experience music in Cape Town as exciting international and local acts take to the stage for a spectacular musical performance you won’t soon forget. Gather your picnic baskets, friends, and family, and enjoy the best music South Africa has to offer in the shade of the magnificent Table Mountain and beautiful Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden surroundings.
2. Stardust Theatrical Dining
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The trendy Cape Town neighbourhood of Woodstock is home to this unique theatrical restaurant. With incredible performances by singing, dancing waiters and delicious Mediterranean dishes you are in for the mother of all treats. A visit to Stardust is undoubtedly one of the best ways to experience music in Cape Town. Not only is it a fun night out, you get to enjoy the sweet sounds of some exceptionally talented local musicians. This is one Cape Town music event where everyone in attendance is encouraged to join in on the musical fun and games. So, don’t be afraid to stand up, dance it out, sing along and cheer on your newly discovered favourite musicians to your heart’s content.
3. Visit the vibrant V&A Waterfront
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Situated right in the heart of the Mother City, the V&A Waterfront is a vibrant hub of art, culture, history and adventure. Besides being one of the top attractions, it’s also one of the best ways to experience music in Cape Town. The V&A Waterfront has fast become a hotspot for exciting Cape Town music events, live performances, street side buskers, performing art groups and passionate musicians to take to the stage. It showcases the very best of what Cape Town’s music scene has to offer, and everyone is invited to join in on the fun. Plus, the lively everyone-is-welcome atmosphere, stunning waterfront views and energetic vibe will make it a truly memorable experience.
4. The Crypt Jazz Bar & Restaurant
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Widely known as one of the coolest Jazz spots in town, a visit to the Crypt is an absolute must for any jazz lover. Situated under St Georges Cathedral, this venue offers live Jazz music five nights a week. The fact that it never has the same line-up two nights running keeps things fresh and exciting all the way through. This cool Cape Town live music venue welcomes Jazz enthusiasts from all walks of life. Whether you enjoy the soothing jazzy sounds of traditional Jazz bands or consider yourself a fan of the up-and-coming rising stars of the Cape Jazz scene, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Although the Crypt is first and foremost a Jazz bar, it does offer a variety of food options and snacks to accompany performances.
5. Cape Town music festivals
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Cape Town truly is any music lover’s dream come true. With a variety of exciting and unique music festivals happening right throughout the year, there is something incredible for everyone to enjoy. From outdoor trance festivals, Rocking the Daisies, Up the Creek Music Festival, RAMfest, the Cape Town Jazz Festival, Earthdance, Wolfkop Weekender, Franschhoek Classical Music Festival, Synergy Live and so much more, there is no shortage of incredible Cape Town music events and festivals to choose from.
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6. The Mother City’s vibrant markets
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Besides being an exciting hub of art, culture and food, the Mother City market scene also boasts a vibrant musical line-up. Featuring an exciting selection of local and international artists, cool local bands and authentic jazz performances, it’s one of the best ways to experience music in Cape Town. The Bay Harbour Market, MOJO Market, the Old Biscuit Mill and Root 44 Market are just some of the markets where you can enjoy some incredible Cape Town music events, local acts and performances.
7. Live Music venues
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With a variety of hip hangouts, trendy rooftop bars, cool restaurants, decadent nightclubs and authentic local spots, the Mother City is home to a thriving and thrilling live music scene. From Jazz, pop, rock and more, there is something for every live music lover at heart. Café Roux, Mercury Live, the Piano Bar, the Waiting Room, Alexander Bar, House of Machines, the Nameless Pub and Mama Africa are just some of the top spots where you can experience great live music in Cape Town.
With so many great ways to experience music in Cape Town, there is no reason why you shouldn’t get out there and share in all the musical magic the Mother City has to offer. Whether you’re looking for something laid-back & jazzy, vibrant and cool or keen to rock out to a live music performance or soak up all the Cape Town music festival bliss, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
What are your top picks for the best Cape Town music events? Share your thoughts below and let us know. If you’re looking for places to stay or things to do in Cape Town, please let us know. We offer a wide range of places to stay and tour activities at the best prices. Contact us today and let us help you plan the perfect holiday that allows you to discover the best nightlife destinations and everything else the city has to offer.
