Your guide to Freedom Day weekend events in Cape Town, Joburg, and Durban
Singer Ella Mai will be performing live at Grand West.
Image: Scott Dudelson / Getty Images via AFP
If you’re sticking around for the Freedom Day long weekend, there’s no shortage of ways to get out and about.
From wine farms and live music to immersive theatre and late-night markets, here’s a quick, no-fuss guide to what’s happening in Cape Town, Joburg and Durban.
Cape Town
Pick n Pay Wine and Food Festival
A laid-back weekend of good wine, great food and live music. Expect over 40 top local producers and plenty to eat, from gourmet bites to comfort classics.
- Date: April 25 – April 26
- Time: 12pm – 6pm
- Cost: From R350
- Where: Constantia Sports Complex, Constantia
Ella Mai live
Grammy-winning R&B star Ella Mai headlines a night packed with local heavyweights and crowd favourites. Think smooth vocals, big hits and a proper sing-along atmosphere.
- Date: April 26
- Time: From 5pm
- Cost: From R790
- Where: Grand Arena, GrandWest, Cape Town
The Bubbly Festival
Sip your way through Cap Classiques, Champagnes and Proseccos while soaking up Winelands views. Add live music and gourmet food stalls, and you’ve got a solid day out.
- Date: April 25 – April 26
- Time: 12pm – 5pm
- Cost: From R350
- Where: Anura Wine Estate, Stellenbosch
Johannesburg
Behind the Crimson Door
A theatrical fashion experience that blends couture, aerial acts and storytelling. It’s bold, dramatic and a little surreal, following a young woman chasing her dreams in the city.
- Date: April 24 – June 14
- Time: Fridays 7pm | Saturdays 7pm | Select Sundays 2pm
- Cost: From R250 (varies by show)
- Where: The Cirk, Cresta Shopping Centre
Deep In The City – Open Air Festival
One of the country’s biggest deep house events returns with a stacked lineup and a full day of music, food and energy.
- Date: April 26
- Time: 12pm – 10pm
- Cost: From R300
- Where: Montecasino, Fourways
Fak’ugesi presents Kancícà and Kwasukasukela
An immersive storytelling and film experience exploring African history and mythology through striking visuals and sound. A thoughtful, slower-paced option for the weekend.
- Date: April 25 – July 26
- Time: Select Saturdays 2pm | Select Sundays 12pm
- Cost: From R45
- Where: Wits Digital Dome, Braamfontein
Wine Forty Four Endless Summer Edition
A relaxed tasting event showcasing new vintages and emerging winemakers. Expect unlimited tastings, good conversation and a chance to discover something new.
- Date: April 26
- Time: 10am – 4pm
- Cost: From R450
- Where: 44 Stanley, Braamfontein Werf
Durban
Museum of Illusions Durban
A brand-new interactive space packed with optical illusions, immersive rooms and mind-bending exhibits. It’s playful, slightly trippy and perfect for all ages.
- Date: From April 24
- Time: Mon–Thu 9am – 8pm | Fri–Sat 9am – 10pm | Sun and public holidays 9am – 7pm
- Cost: From R200 (varies by ticket type)
- Where: Gateway Theatre of Shopping, Umhlanga
The R&B Movement Freedom Day Music Festival
A throwback-heavy R&B session with DJs spinning everything from 90s classics to current hits. Expect a lively crowd and a strong party vibe.
- Date: April 26
- Time: 4pm – late
- Cost: R250
- Where: Cappello, Umhlanga
The Night Market at Westown Square
A casual Friday night out with street food, live music and local crafts. Easy, social and perfect if you’re not in the mood for anything too hectic.
- Date: April 24
- Time: 5pm – 10pm
- Cost: Free
- Where: Westown Square, Durban