What's Happening in July? - Our Top 15 Upcoming Events You Must Diarise Now!

Image Source: Samantha Gades

From Cape Winelands charm to coastal adventure, design inspiration to cultural immersion, July in South Africa is far from quiet. Traversing from Johannesburg to the Garden Route, the Eastern Cape, the Winelands and Cape Town - a vibrant calendar of events awaits. Whether you're drawn to classical music among the vines, the high fashion of the Durban July or the warm richness of Pinotage in Franschhoek, this guide captures the experiences worth planning for.

Garden Route: Adventure, Elegance & Oysters

      1. Knysna Oyster Festival 2025

From 28 June to 7 July 2025, the charming coastal town of Knysna in the Western Cape plays host to the iconic Knysna Oyster Festival - now celebrating 40 years of flavour. The festival blends coastal charm with epicurean delight - from oyster and MCC pairings to open-air markets, lagoon cruises and forest trail races.

Launched in 1983 as the "Winter Festival," it has evolved into a premier food-and-sporting celebration that attracts visitors from far and wide. It has become a highlight for culinary enthusiasts and active travellers alike, with the tranquil Knysna Lagoon setting the stage for unforgettable moments.

Festival Highlights:

Gourmet Oyster & Bubbly Tastings:
Dive into the region's celebrated culinary heritage with expertly prepared oyster tastings, complemented by a curated selection of MCCs and boutique bubbly brands. From wild coastal oysters to cultivated varieties, tastings are guided by chefs and sommeliers who highlight local terroir and pairing techniques.

The Forest Marathon & Cycle Tour:
Two flagship events, the Knysna Forest Marathon on 5 July and the Cycle Tour on 11 July, attract elite and recreational athletes alike. Participants navigate through ancient indigenous forests and along coastal trails, experiencing breathtaking scenery in one of the country's most iconic trail-running and cycling destinations. A bucket-list race for endurance lovers.

Waterfront Live Music, Artisan Food Stalls and Local Galleries:
Knysna's waterfront buzzes with live jazz, acoustic sets and upbeat local acts. Bespoke food trucks and artisan producers offer everything from craft gin and slow-cooked lamb to gourmet doughnuts. Pop into galleries featuring regional artists and coastal-themed collections for a dose of local creativity with your cuisine.

For the full listing of events during this festival go to: https://www.knysnaoysterfestival.co.za/events/

      2. Plett Ocean Festival - Science, Sustainability & Seaside Discovery

From 28 June to 7 July 2025, the coastal gem of Plettenberg Bay plays host to the Plett Ocean Festival  -  a celebration of marine life, ocean conservation and eco-adventure set against one of South Africa's most breathtaking shorelines.

At the heart of the festival is the Plett Marine Science Symposium, a gathering of leading scientists, conservationists and curious minds exploring everything from whale migration to sustainable seafood. For those eager to learn, it's an accessible dive into ocean literacy that blends academic insight with awe-inspiring wonder.

Complementing the symposium are daily beach walks, family-friendly marine safaris, coastal clean-ups and ocean-inspired art exhibitions. Whether you're a budding marine biologist or simply passionate about preserving our blue planet, this festival offers a dynamic blend of science, storytelling and shoreline adventure.

Eastern Cape: Expression, Innovation & Cultural Legacy

      3. National Arts Festival 2025 - Art, Theatre & Timeless Stories

From 26 June to 6 July 2025 the historic town of Makhanda (formerly Grahamstown) becomes a living canvas for the National Arts Festival - Africa's largest and most diverse cultural celebration. For over five decades, the National Arts Festival has been a beacon of artistic expression, platforming voices that shape and challenge South African culture. From its early days in Makhanda's theatres and lecture halls to today's sprawling multi-venue celebration, the festival has never lost its spirit of daring innovation. 

In 2025, that legacy continues with a lineup that balances beloved veterans and emerging voices, spanning dance, theatre, music, comedy and more. Here are some of this year's standout experiences.

Dance & Physical Theatre - Top Pick: SALT by Cape Ballet Africa

This evocative triple bill is a stirring reflection on movement, memory and mastery. Featuring choreography by Kirsten Isenberg, Mthuthuzeli November and Michelle Reid, the performance is elevated by a rare staging of George Balanchine's Allegro Brilliante, set to Tchaikovsky's sweeping Piano Concerto No. 3. It's a mesmerising blend of neoclassical refinement and contemporary storytelling.

You must also see Izithukuthuku. Gritty, graceful and deeply rooted in African identity, this production weaves isiPantsula with traditional dances like indlamu and setapa. Through sharp footwork and pulsating rhythms, it channels the emotional landscape of a migrant worker, echoing themes of displacement, memory and longing.

Theatre & Storytelling - Top Pick: Vakavigwa (Burials/They Were Buried)
Crafted by National Playwright Award winner Campbell Meas, Vakavigwa is a richly layered, searing exploration of borders, identity and shared African heritage. With poetic narration and bold multimedia elements, it confronts the complexities of belonging with unflinching honesty and lyrical depth. A masterwork of contemporary South African theatre.

Also worth seeing is Die Een Wat Bly.  A tender and introspective solo work that follows a dancer's emotional journey through grief, memory and self-discovery after the passing of his mother. Layered with grace and vulnerability, it invites audiences to reflect on love, loss and the quiet strength we find in remembrance.

Music & Soundscapes - Top Pick: The Soil

Few groups capture the spirit of South African musical storytelling like The Soil. Returning to the festival stage with their unmistakable blend of a cappella harmony, rhythm and heartfelt storytelling. Their performances are more than concerts - they're shared moments of joy, memory and musical connection.

Another must-see is Anelisa "Annalyzer" Stuurman's Izwi Lami (My Voice). Deeply spiritual and artfully composed, this ritualistic performance draws inspiration from the Xhosa lunar calendar. With a rich fusion of operatic vocals, indigenous instrumentation and evocative spoken word, it's a meditative journey into ancestral knowledge and personal voice.

Emerging Talent

Among this year's Standard Bank Young Artists, two names shine particularly bright. Calvin Ratladi, recognised for Theatre, debuts a bold new work - Breakfast with Mugabe, that blurs the lines between performance, installation and political commentary - challenging audiences to engage more deeply with the stories we tell and how we tell them. 

In the realm of jazz, Siya Charles takes centre stage with Siya Charles Sextet, which offers a sound that is as rooted as it is radiant. Her compositions draw from South Africa's rhythmic heritage while weaving in layers of modern improvisation and soul, promising performances that feel both intimate and expansive.

Fringe Festival Favourites

Two crowd-pullers are set to bring energy and edge to this year's Fringe. Conrad Koch & Chester Missing return with their signature blend of ventriloquism and political satire - sharp, clever and never shy of the issues. 

Equally anticipated is Khanyisa Jam Jam's Sorry for the Weight, a heartfelt comedy that has already earned critical acclaim. Balancing laughter with introspection, it explores themes of identity, self-image and resilience in a way that's both relatable and engaging.

The Winelands: Refined Palates & Cultural Pairings

      4. Stellenbosch International Chamber Music Festival - Music Among the Vines

From 5 to 13 July 2025, the Stellenbosch University Conservatoire hosts the prestigious Stellenbosch International Chamber Music Festival, a celebration of musical mastery in the heart of the Winelands. A mecca for classical music lovers, this festival showcases renowned international musicians and top student ensembles in an inspiring setting. With evening concerts, open rehearsals and sunset receptions, it's one of the more refined events on the Winelands calendar.

The festival began in 2004 as an educational initiative and now boasts an illustrious alumni network and impressive global participation. It draws audiences who appreciate the intersection of youthful energy and professional mastery in the intimate setting of the university's historic concert hall.

Perfect pairings:

• Attend a twilight performance followed by a wine tasting at nearby estates like Tokara or Delaire Graff.
• Private recital packages are available for patrons of the arts.
   

      5. Franschhoek Bastille Festival - French Flair & Foodie Fun

On the weekend of 12 and 13 July 2025, the idyllic Franschhoek Village comes alive with French flair and flavour for the annual Bastille Festival - a sophisticated homage to the valley's French heritage. This annual homage to the town's French roots brings a refined sense of joie de vivre to the valley. Expect fine wines, charcuterie, custom-made pastries, costumed revellers and live jazz beneath the French flag.

Established in 1994, the Bastille Festival commemorates the storming of the Bastille and pays tribute to the Huguenot settlers who brought their culture and winemaking expertise to the region. It's an immersion in elegance and tradition that transforms Franschhoek into a slice of France.

Main Attractions:

• The Bastille Food & Wine Marquee: The heart of the festival, this marquee hosts top Franschhoek wineries alongside gourmet food producers. It's a curated tasting room featuring everything from bubbly and Bordeaux-style blends to artisanal cheeses, pâtés and chocolate. Entry includes a souvenir glass and access to multiple tastings in a lively, festive environment.
   
• Chef-led wine pairing lunches": Held at select vineyards and top restaurants, these exclusive lunches are hosted by renowned chefs who create seasonal menus paired with Franschhoek's finest wines. Diners enjoy insight into flavour profiling and terroir, making this a must for culinary enthusiasts seeking a refined, sensory journey.

• Artisan stalls & street theatre: Lining the cobbled streets of the village, these stalls offer hand-crafted goods, French-themed merchandise and gourmet treats. Street performers, mimes and musicians roam freely, bringing playful charm and Parisian flair to the open-air market atmosphere.

Cape Town: Cultural Sparks, Bold Stages & Moving Moments

      6. Zip Zap Circus Presents: Chasing Dreams

From 12 to 20 July 2025, the Zip Zap Dome in Cape Town's City Centre becomes a stage for wonder as Chasing Dreams unfolds beneath the iconic big top - a vibrant tribute to passion, perseverance and the boundless possibility of youth.

Chasing Dreams - Zip Zap's 2025 family spectacular blends breathtaking aerial artistry, gravity-defying acrobatics and evocative choreography into one unforgettable journey. It's a show about reaching for the stars - and what it takes to get there.

Rooted in social change and performed by Zip Zap's own rising talent, Chasing Dreams captures Cape Town's creative heart and community spirit. Expect to be moved, thrilled and thoroughly entertained. Perfect for families, dreamers and anyone who believes in the magic of possibility.

      7. HYROX Cape Town - Race. Repeat. Redefine.

Step into the arena where mental grit meets physical endurance as HYROX returns to Cape Town on 19 and 20 July 2025, taking over CTICC Exhibition Halls 1 - 4 with a high-performance fitness showdown that's as thrilling for spectators as it is demanding for competitors.

The format? A fast-paced race against the clock, combining functional workouts with endurance running inside the CTICC's high-octane indoor setting. Open to solo athletes and team contenders alike, HYROX invites you to dig deep, push limits and reimagine what's possible.

Globally recognised for its electrifying energy and elite-meets-everyday appeal, HYROX has carved out a niche for those who live to test their edge. Whether you're lacing up or cheering from the sidelines, this event is set to energise the Mother City in every sense.

      8. The Glass Menagerie - A Classic Reimagined

From 13 July to 7 August 2025, The Baxter Theatre in Cape Town stages a stripped-back, emotionally resonant revival of Tennessee Williams' The Glass Menagerie under the masterful direction of Craig Freimond.

Set within the intimacy of a post-apartheid South African home, this deeply affecting reinterpretation breathes new life into Williams' semi-autobiographical tale of memory, fragility and family. Featuring a powerhouse local cast, the production explores timeless themes of hope and heartbreak, all under the weight of unfulfilled dreams.

The minimalist staging and nuanced performances invite the audience into the delicate world of Amanda Wingfield and her children - each one clinging to illusions in a society grappling with its own transformation. A must-see for theatre lovers and those drawn to stories that linger long after the curtain falls.

      9. Nelson Mandela Month - A Month to Reflect & Reconnect

Throughout July - anchored by Mandela Day on the 18th - Cape Town pays tribute to the legacy of Nelson Mandela through events hosted at Robben Island, Langa, Woodstock and the city's cultural districts. July in Cape Town is about more than events - it's a time to celebrate the legacy of a global icon. Mandela Month encourages giving back, but also offers a chance to immerse yourself in South Africa's socio-political history through art, culture and storytelling.

Instituted by the UN in 2009, Nelson Mandela International Day calls on people globally to dedicate 67 minutes of service. In Cape Town, this spirit expands across the month, with philanthropic dinners, exhibitions and social justice events led by cultural institutions and community groups.

What to Explore:

• Heritage Walks on Robben Island: Led by former political prisoners or expert guides, these tours offer a profound look into South Africa's past. Visitors explore the island's maximum-security prison, limestone quarry and Mandela's former cell while gaining invaluable context about the anti-apartheid struggle.
• Fundraising Galas and Cultural Dinners: Held in elegant venues across the city, these events raise funds for educational and humanitarian initiatives aligned with Mandela's values. Guests enjoy fine dining, keynote speakers, musical performances and auctions - all in support of local impact programmes.
• Boutique Exhibits and Panel Talks in the City Bowl: Throughout July, Cape Town's inner city galleries and cultural hubs host curated exhibitions on social justice, reconciliation and Mandela's legacy. Panel discussions feature historians, artists and change-makers offering insight into past and present-day challenges through a local lens.

Gauteng - Johannesburg: Performance, Design & Midwinter Magic

      10. Christmas in July - Winter Elegance at Fairlawns

On 6 July 2025, the elegant Fairlawns Boutique Hotel in Sandton transforms into a luxurious winter wonderland for its annual Christmas in July celebration  -  a curated afternoon of festive indulgence under Joburg's crisp winter skies.

Guests are welcomed with a roaring fireplace, twinkling décor and a gourmet Christmas spread that blends tradition with contemporary flair. Think mulled wine, roast duck, brandy pudding and live acoustic sets echoing through the Manor House.

Known for its refined hospitality and lush surrounds, Fairlawns delivers the festive spirit with signature charm  -  offering a perfect mid-winter retreat for those craving cosy opulence and a dose of Noël nostalgia.

      11. Swan Lake - A Ballet Classic Returns

From 11 to 28 July 2025, the Joburg Theatre hosts a breathtaking revival of Swan Lake, one of the world's most cherished ballets, brought to life with elegance, precision and emotional depth.

With Tchaikovsky's iconic score as its heartbeat, this production invites audiences into a world of moonlit lakes, enchanted swans and doomed love. The exquisite staging, luminous costuming and stirring choreography promise an unforgettable encounter with ballet's most timeless tale.
For lovers of classical performance, Swan Lake at Joburg Theatre is not just a performance  -  it's an experience of grace, drama and enduring beauty.

      12. Jonathan Roxmouth in My Favourite Broadway

Fresh from sold-out performances abroad, multi-award-winning theatre star Jonathan Roxmouth returns home to Johannesburg for a limited season of his latest show, My Favourite Broadway, at Montecasino's Teatro from 2 to 4 and 9 to 11 July 2025. Known for his iconic role as the Phantom in The Phantom of the Opera, Roxmouth brings a dazzling performance, showcasing his personal selection of showstopping hits from Broadway's finest musicals.

Accompanied by the newly formed Egoli Symphonic Orchestra, conducted by Maestro Adam Howard, the show features classics from Les Misérables, Evita, My Fair Lady and more. A night of musical theatre excellence awaits as Roxmouth delivers unforgettable renditions of beloved Broadway anthems, making this a must-see for musical theatre enthusiasts.

      13. Decorex Joburg - A Design Enthusiast's Dream

The cosmopolitan pulse of Johannesburg finds elegant expression in Decorex Joburg, where innovation, design and lifestyle intersect and is scheduled for 24 to 27 July 2025. Included in the exhibit programmes are private viewings, launch parties and exclusive brand activations. For homeowners, architects and developers in Bryanston, this is a playground of bespoke interiors and future-focused living. Expect conceptual room sets, avant-garde lighting, smart home integrations and the kind of tailored details that turn a residence into a work of art. Explore design as an experience, not a product. From curated installations to boutique kitchen innovations, Decorex delivers the next chapter in home luxury.

Bluey's Big Play - A Stage Adventure for the Whole Family

From 18 to 21 July 2025, the Teatro at Montecasino comes alive with the magic of Bluey's Big Play  -  the award-winning stage adaptation of the beloved animated series.

Presented with beautifully crafted puppets, live actors and original music, this theatrical delight brings the Heeler family to life in a heartwarming story made just for the stage. It's a brand-new adventure  -  not seen on TV  -  packed with laughter, imagination and the little life lessons that have made Bluey a global favourite.

Whether you're introducing the little ones to their first stage show or sharing in the joy of Bluey, Bingo, Bandit and Chilli as a family, Bluey's Big Play offers a theatre experience that's as meaningful as it is magical.

Durban & KZN South Coast: Ocean Thrills & Couture Thrills 

      14. Hollywoodbets Durban July

On 5 July 2025, Greyville Racecourse in Durban transforms into a spectacle of style, sport and social prestige for the Hollywoodbets Durban July - the continent's most glamorous horse racing event. Fashion, thoroughbreds and high society collide at this unmissable event. Durban July is as much about the hats and high heels as it is about the horses. It's a high-glamour day of racing, celebrity sightings and luxury hospitality.

Dating back to 1897, this historic race has evolved into Africa's most stylish sporting event. With over 50,000 guests annually, including dignitaries and designers, it is both a social and equestrian highlight on the continent's luxury calendar.

What to expect:

Exclusive Marquees with Champagne Brunches

The Hollywoodbets Durban July features a range of premium hospitality marquees catering to diverse tastes. The Boomtown Marquee, now in its 15th year, is known for its vibrant atmosphere, live performances by top South African artists, gourmet buffet meals and premium bars. Saso's Brunch Marquee offers an elegant setting with complimentary buffet lunch and dinner, premium spirits, Champagne and live entertainment. For a truly luxurious experience, the Finish Line VIP Lounge boasts air-conditioned comfort, prime racetrack views, gourmet canapés and exclusive amenities.amenities.

Couture Fashion Showdowns

Fashion is at the heart of the Durban July, with the 2025 theme, "Marvels of Mzansi," inspiring designers to showcase creations that celebrate South Africa's rich cultural heritage. Attendees are encouraged to dress in line with the theme, making the event a visual feast of sartorial elegance and creativity.

VIP Afterparties Across the City

As the sun sets, the celebration continues with exclusive afterparties hosted at various venues:

The Soundland Durban July After Party at Kings Park Stadium is a high-energy celebration featuring top DJs, world-class sound and lighting and premium lounges. Guests can choose from general access to VVIP experiences, with gourmet food courts and VIP tents enhancing the night. The Tiger Tiger Marquee and Afterparty held at Greyville Racecourse, offers a more intimate yet equally stylish affair. With themed décor, luxury bottle service and exclusive access, it delivers sleek, high-glamour, close to race day festivities.

These events provide the perfect opportunity to unwind and celebrate in style, surrounded by fellow fashion and racing enthusiasts.

      15. The Sardine Run

From June to late July, the coastal stretch between Port Edward and Umkomaas offers front-row seats to the Sardine Run - an awe-inspiring marine migration dubbed the 'Greatest Shoal on Earth.' Nature lovers and photographers alike won't want to miss this aquatic phenomenon. The Sardine Run is a wild spectacle, drawing dolphins, whales and seabirds into a feeding frenzy along the coast.

Dubbed "The Greatest Shoal on Earth," this annual migration has occurred for millennia and continues to baffle scientists and thrill spectators. It is a seasonal marvel offering rare opportunities for diving, eco-tourism and marine photography on an epic scale.

Dive charters, marine safaris and seaside stays can be arranged with tailored itineraries for an elevated, eco-conscious adventure.

Plan Ahead & Indulge Fully

Whether you're chasing gourmet oysters in Knysna, design innovation in Sandton or fine Pinotage in Franschhoek, July offers a chance to savour South Africa's many flavours.

Insider's Diary:

• For wine & culinary connoisseurs:
  Franschhoek Bastille Festival, Stellenbosch International Chamber Music Festival, Knysna Oyster Festival
   
• For culture seekers & creatives:
  National Arts Festival (Makhanda), Nelson Mandela Month (Cape Town), Zip Zap Circus & The Glass Menagerie (Cape Town)

• For families & fun seekers:
  Bluey's Big Play (Joburg), Zip Zap Circus (Cape Town), Plett Ocean Festival (Garden Route)

• For fashionistas & the social elite:
  Hollywoodbets Durban July, Christmas in July at Fairlawns (Sandton)

• For thrill-seekers & fitness enthusiasts:
  HYROX Cape Town, Knysna Forest Marathon & Cycle Tour, The Sardine Run (KZN)

• For design & décor lovers:
  Decorex Joburg

• For classical & stage performance fans:
  Swan Lake (Joburg), My Favourite Broadway (Joburg), The Soil & Chamber Music Festival (Various)

Raise a glass, catch a show, savour the moment.

July is waiting.

Disclaimer: Event details provided in this article are offered on a best endeavours basis. While care has been taken to ensure accuracy at the time of publication, we recommend confirming specifics directly with event organisers. Dates, venues and programmes may be subject to change without prior notice.

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