10 Can't Miss Events in the Cape Winelands this September

As winter loosens its grip - not quite ready to let go - the Cape Winelands roll into September with an air of anticipation and unpredictability. One day brings golden warmth that glints off vineyard trellises, the next, a southeasterly gust rattles the shutters and sends clouds racing down the mountains. This is a month of in-betweens: misty mornings, moody skies and the quiet, patient work of winemakers coaxing flavour from last season's harvest in barrel rooms that hum with quiet intent.

For those who call the Winelands home - and those fortunate enough to visit - September 2025 offers a full and flavourful calendar of experiences. From intimate gallery showings and trail runs through ancient valleys to sensory dinners in candlelit cellars, the month is brimming with opportunities to indulge, connect and rediscover the magic that has long drawn people to these storied slopes.

Whether you're a long-time resident or exploring from afar, here's what not to miss in the Winelands this September - and a curated preview of what's still to come as the year unfolds. From culinary celebrations to collector's car displays and gallery showcases, it's a calendar rich in discovery - with the truly legendary Montreux jazz festival waiting just over the horizon.

Awaken the Senses: Art, Wine & Culinary Escapes

  Photo by Ante  Emmanuel: https://tinyurl.com/5zu755wv

1. Ceramics with Soul at Spier
On show now until 14 September 2025, Spier Wine Farm in Stellenbosch invites art lovers to explore Grounded Practice, a compelling ceramics exhibition that reimagines our relationship with the earth. Drawing on clay's ancient, tactile history, the show balances technical excellence with spiritual resonance. It's a slow, contemplative journey - and a fitting pairing with Spier's acclaimed tasting experiences, which remain open daily throughout the season.

2. The African Table at Nederburg - Paarl's Hidden Feast
On show now until 27 September, Yours to Explore: The African Table is a bold, immersive dining experience set in the heart of Nederburg's heritage estate. Guests are led through a curated sensory journey - blindfolded tastings, story-driven courses and unexpected settings beneath chandeliers or starlit vines. It's not just dinner; it's theatre, history and terroir on a plate.

For the Heart & Soul: Festivals, Markets, Cars & Music

3. Lourensford Market Reawakens 
September marks the return of the beloved Lourensford Market in Somerset West, with a celebratory First Friday reopening on 5 September. Picture children darting between artisan stalls, local musicians serenading golden hour and the scent of wood-fired pizza and jasmine in the air. With free entry, vintage cars on display and curated food and craft vendors, it's a family-friendly way to ease into spring.

4. THINGS OF BEAUTY: Automotive Culture in Stellenbosch 
On 28 September, The Woodmill in Devonvallei hosts THINGS OF BEAUTY 2025, a unique automotive lifestyle expo by Coffee Cars SA. It's equal parts art gallery and social club - where polished chrome meets curated coffee and motor enthusiasts of all stripes gather in celebration of design, heritage and performance.

5. Southey's Vines in Somerset West 
For those drawn to the tactile joys of handmade goods and garden mornings, the Country Craft Market returns to Southey's Vines in Somerset West on 27 September 2025. Here, under rustling oaks, you'll find ceramics, textiles, preserves and jewellery - all lovingly crafted and entirely unique.

It's the kind of day that invites you to leave your watch at home. Browse, taste, sip and linger. September is generous like that.

Trail, Tread and Triumph: Active Experiences

6. Franschhoek BEAST Trail Run
On 6 September, La Roche Estate transforms into a runner's playground with the return of the Franschhoek BEAST. This year's edition includes trail challenges ranging from 16 km to a formidable 75 km. For something lighter - and lovelier - the 6 km Wine Run winds gently through the estate, featuring wine tastings at intervals and sweeping valley views that more than make up for the uphill bits.

7. Cloverfield Fun Run - Robertson
Also on 6 September, Cloverfield in Robertson offers a wholesome alternative for families and casual joggers. With 5 km and 10 km routes, the day is less about speed and more about community, connection and countryside charm. Pre-registration is advised and pets will need to sit this one out.

Creative Encounters in Franschhoek

The village of Franschhoek has long served as the Winelands' cultural compass - and September is no exception. Art aficionados will want to linger in the elegant spaces of the Everard Read Gallery, where three solo exhibitions punctuate the month:

8. Robert Slingsby (Running until 6 September) 
A landmark exhibition showcasing works rooted in African history, myth and politics.

9. Tamlin Blake (Running until 20 September)
Woven narratives brought to life through handmade paper and storytelling.

10. Michael MacGarry (13 September - 12 October)
Bold commentary in a variety of mediums, tackling post-colonial identity and contemporary Africa.

Pair an afternoon gallery visit with lunch at La Petite Colombe or a glass of Methode Cap Classique at one of the valley's boutique estates - and you've curated your own cultural sabbatical.

Plan Ahead: What's Coming Up in the Winelands 
As the blossoms of spring give way to full summer bloom, the Cape Winelands continue to deliver a season rich in flavour, festivity and finesse. Whether you're booking ahead, planning a return visit, or mapping out your investment and leisure calendar, these upcoming events offer a compelling reason to linger a little longer.

11. Huguenot Festival - Final Weekend of October, Franschhoek
Franschhoek's rich French heritage takes centre stage at this annual celebration. Expect rose-filled gardens, historical exhibitions and a gentle nod to the past in one of the Winelands' most elegant settings.

12. Franschhoek Motor Museum Car Festival - 4-5 October 2025
For motoring purists and nostalgic souls alike, the Franschhoek Classic Car Festival promises a weekend of polished chrome, roaring engines and timeless design. On Saturday, the iconic Huguenot Monument hosts Forty of the Finest - a curated display of pre-1990 vehicles alongside special anniversary tributes to Perana, BMW, MG and Formula 1. 

On Sunday, the celebration shifts to the Franschhoek Motor Museum, where visitors can explore a Festival-exclusive F1 tribute, rare collector's models and beautifully preserved automotive history, all set against the elegant backdrop of L'Ormarins Estate.

13. Woordfees Straatsoirée - 11-19 October 2025, Stellenbosch
Ryneveld Street comes alive with music, local fare and open-air festivity as Stellenbosch hosts this refined twilight street party. It's a mellow mix of food, wine and creative conversation beneath the oaks.

14. Wine on the River - October 2025, Robertson
Set on the banks of the Breede River, this easy-going festival brings together wine estates, live music and laid-back tastings under marquee tents. A family-friendly favourite with a slow and soulful pace hosted at the Viljoensdrift Wine Estate.

15. Cape Winemakers' Guild Auction - 3-4 October 2025, Stellenbosch
A pinnacle event for collectors and connoisseurs, this prestigious auction showcases rare, limited-edition wines by South Africa's most celebrated winemakers. Even as a spectator, it's an experience in excellence and anticipation.

16. Ceres 500 Gravel Adventure - 7-9 November 2025, Ceres Region
This 520 km bikepacking journey offers an unforgettable test of endurance across dramatic Winelands terrain. Cyclists trade comfort for camaraderie, riding through valleys, ridges and rugged freedom.

17. Franschhoek 500 Gravel Ride - 26-28 December 2025, Franschhoek
Round off the year with a festive, adrenaline-fuelled gravel ride through Franschhoek's vineyards and mountain trails. Each day ends with wine, shared stories and well-earned rest beneath December skies.

18. Montreux Jazz Festival - 14 -16 March 2026
While it falls just outside the summer season, the buzz is already building for one of 2026's most anticipated cultural moments. In March 2026, the village of Franschhoek will make history as the first African host of the iconic Montreux Jazz Festival.

Yes, that Montreux - the legendary Swiss music event that has welcomed legends like Miles Davis, Nina Simone and Prince.

For three days next March, Franschhoek will transform into a sonic playground, marrying its sophisticated hospitality with global talent, bespoke stages and immersive experiences. With limited capacity and highly curated access, early bookings are essential. Whether you're a jazz purist or simply love a well-orchestrated weekend, this is the kind of event that rewrites a town's cultural legacy - and should absolutely be on your 2026 calendar.

Be the first to know - join the official mailing list at mjfsa.com for exclusive updates on this landmark cultural event.

In Closing: A Month to Breathe and Belong

September in the Winelands is a mirror: it reflects our desire to start anew, to gather, to seek beauty and warmth after months of pause. Whether you're clinking glasses beneath vineyard trellises, hiking the folds of the Franschhoek Mountains, or strolling a market in Robertson with a warm waffle in hand, the joy lies in the moment - and the memory you'll make of it.

As the vines stir and the orchards blossom, so too does the rhythm of Winelands life - not just for now, but for the months ahead. So linger a little longer, make your plans and let this September be the start of something exquisite.

Disclaimer: While we have made our best endeavours to ensure event details were accurate at the time of publication, dates, venues and programmes are subject to change. We recommend confirming directly with event organisers or official tourism platforms before making travel or booking arrangements.

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