This weekend, 16 – 17 March 2024, the vibrant city of Cape Town transforms into a grand stage, showcasing a spectacular array of events that promise to captivate locals and visitors alike.
From the colourful extravaganza of the Cape Town Carnival to the adrenaline-pumping Red Bull Shay’ iMoto and the serene yet competitive atmosphere of the Cape Town Surf Pro, there’s something for everyone. As if that wasn’t enough, the much-anticipated Absa Cape Epic marks its 20th anniversary, drawing cycling enthusiasts from around the globe. Join us as we explore the details of these remarkable events, each offering a unique glimpse into the diverse tapestry of Cape Town’s cultural and sporting landscape.
Cape Town Carnival Extravaganza
This Saturday, 16 March 2024, over 1 400 performers from across the city will take over Green Point for an extravaganza like no other at the Cape Town Carnival. With a myriad of floats, costumes and life-size art pieces, the performers will dazzle an estimated 30 000 people who will gather along the Fan Walk for the spectacle.
Centred on the theme “lekker” in 2024, the carnival promises to be a feast for the eyes for spectators.
“The Cape Town Carnival is not only a celebration of creativity and the city’s cultural diversity, but it is a platform that provides opportunities for residents who contribute to making the event a possibility. From upskilling artisans who construct the floats in the workshop and the costume designers who work on the garments, the carnival is truly more than just a once-off event. As the City of Cape Town, we are proud of our ongoing partnership with the carnival and we would like to encourage residents to come out in their numbers this Saturday to enjoy the spectacular extravaganza,” said the City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security Alderman JP Smith.
Event Schedule and Road Closures
The Cape Town Carnival takes place on the Fan Walk along Somerset Road with the pre-parade kicking off at 18:00 and the official parade starting at 19:00. The carnival village opens at 15:00. Due to the event footprint, a number of roads in the Green Point area will be affected from Friday, 15 March 2024.
Red Bull Shay’ iMoto Showdown
In Century City, 16 of the country’s top spinners will be duelling for the chance to be crowned the next Red Bull Shay’ iMoto champion.
The competition involves the drivers navigating through obstacles and impressing judges with their theatrical skills while spinning the car.
Red Bull Shay’ iMoto takes place at the Century City Steel Bridge E-Parking Facility from 18:00 on Saturday.
Cape Town Surf Pro Competition
Meanwhile, at Long Beach in Kommetjie, 50 of the best senior surfers from around the country and the world will catch waves in the Mother City for the Cape Town Surf Pro. The Cape Town Surf Pro participants will be carving up waves on 16 and 17 March 2024.
Entry to the event is free.
Absa Cape Epic Mountain Bike Race
On Sunday, from the Lourensford Wine Estate, the Absa Cape Epic will begin an eight-day journey across several Western Cape towns for the event’s 20th anniversary edition.
With over 1 000 riders, the foremost mountain bike stage race in the world has six stages, a prologue, and a grand finale. The Epic will conclude in Stellenbosch on Sunday, 24 March.
From the dazzling floats of the carnival to the spinning wheels at Century City, the skilled surfers at Long Beach, and the enduring cyclists of the Absa Cape Epic, each event contributes to the city’s vibrant energy and appeal. These gatherings not only entertain but foster community spirit, showcase local talents, and highlight Cape Town’s natural beauty.
