Cape Town’s Summer Festival of Racing: A celebration of culture, fashion and thrills

Cape Town is once again alive with the thrilling convergence of racing, culture, and fashion as the Summer Festival of Racing kicks off. Running from November 2025 through February 2026, this year’s festival introduces a modern twist on the beloved event, fostering an inclusive atmosphere that calls upon all South Africans - families, fashion aficionados, culinary enthusiasts, and racing fans alike.

The opening weekend set an exhilarating tone with the highly-anticipated Summer Kick-Off featuring the Cape Punters Cup at the Hollywoodbets Kenilworth Racecourse. With a lively crowd of around 2,000 attendees, the atmosphere buzzed with anticipation as the contenders took to the track. Spectacularly, the race concluded with GOOD FOR YOU narrowly claiming victory over RANDOLPH HEARST, amidst a backdrop of cheers and the resolution of a controversial objection by the runner-up.

Apart from the gripping races, the event offered plenty of off-track entertainment. Families delighted in exploring the Trackside Market, where local vendors showcased unique wares, while children enjoyed the vibrant kids’ zone with interactive activities and racing mini-games. The fashionable atmosphere was further amplified by the Best Dressed racegoers competition, with the top contestant taking home a stylish prize of R5,000.

Donovan Everitt, COO of Race Coast Western Cape, aptly summarised this year’s mission: “The 2025/2026 Summer Festival of Racing sets a new benchmark for the racing experience. We continue on our mission to evolve racing into an exciting, vibrant, and truly accessible experience for all South Africans by honouring the heritage of our sport while inviting new audiences to enjoy the fashion, food, culture, and entertainment. This is going to be a special season.”

Highlights of the Festival

The festival promises a remarkable line-up of events, each designed to engage and entertain:

• Sip & Shop feat. World Sports Betting Cape Fillies Guineas - 6 December 2025: Kick off the festive season with upscale shopping, wine tastings, and the showcase of the country's top three-year-old fillies. Free entry.
• Festive Fair feat. Hollywoodbets Cape Guineas - 13 December 2025: A day filled with festive cheer, thrilling racing and a vibrant celebration with thousands of Kaapse Klopse. Free entry.
• L’Ormarins King’s Plate - 10 January 2026: Cape Town’s elegant racing tradition is back, promising high-class entertainment and international attention. Tickets available.
• World Sports Betting Cape Town Met presents Symphony of Style - 31 January 2026: Fashion and music collide in one of the most significant events on the national calendar. Tickets available.
• Seafood & Jazz Festival feat. Lucky Fish Cape Derby - 28 February 2026: Conclude the festival with a vibrant mix of seafood, jazz, and world-class racing.

This year's festival reimagines race days as immersive destinations, where sporting excellence blends seamlessly with cultural experiences, family fun, and gastronomic delights. As the warm summer sun sets over Cape Town, the Summer Festival of Racing beckons with a promise of extraordinary moments for everyone—from avid racers to casual visitors seeking an unforgettable day out.

For further details on the festival's events and ticket information, visit www.caperacing.co.za.