Events and festivals in South Africa this Autumn

In the southern hemisphere, autumn and winter are gradually approaching. If summer is in retreat however, then that means it’s time to spice things up.  There are loads of exciting events in South Africa that are lined up to chase away boredom, and keep your energy levels high as we enter the cooler months.

And, of course, we’ll be on hand to help keep you on the move anytime you need. Scroll through our selection of top-notch entertainment to help make the most of this Autumn season.

Craft beer breweries have sprung up like mushrooms over the past few years due to a tremendous growth in popularity. If you haven’t before, why not get better acquainted with these darlings of the liquor world during the Untapped Craft Beer Festival in Johannesburg on April 13th? Over 150 craft beers from across the world and South Africa can be enjoyed and the so-called Bar Exchange – the “stock exchange of the beer world” the festival says – will also be making its debut at the festival this year this year.   

Gather up some friends and jump into a spacious UberVAN to join in the merriment – everyone can enjoy themselves without the need for a designated driver.

Durban with its lovely subtropical climate has much to offer during the slower months. For example, the world-famous Comrades marathon takes place on June 9th and is the world’s largest and oldest ultramarathon, with 25,000 entrants this year alone! This year the Comrades marathon will be an “up run”, with the race starting in Durban and ending in Pietermaritzburg.

Curious about what’s happening in Cape Town and around the western cape? One outstanding event to check out is the South African Cheese Festival taking place from April 26th to 28th.  This world-class event is hosted at the esteemed Sandringham Estate near Stellenbosch, only a short drive outside the Mother City. With the festival celebrating its 18th birthday this year, festival-goers can look forward to an impressive variety of delectable cheeses, cooking demonstrations, cheese tastings and entertainment.

Looking for upcoming events in Port Elizabeth? The Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Art Museum will be hosting several unique and interesting exhibitions during April and May that are perfect for Eastern Cape creatives and friendly city citizens alike:

Having already kicked off on March 29th, the Lithuba Lakho craft exhibition and competition displays top quality craft and designs from creators across the Eastern Cape. Stay tuned for announcements on the awards as the exhibition ends on May 10th.

When Dust Settles is an exhibition from Igshaan Adams, a recipient of the Standard Bank Young Artist award for 2018. Opening on April 17th, the exhibition promises to be a multi-sensory experience of tapestry and sculpture, characteristic of Adams’ style.

If you’re looking for creative inspiration up in Gauteng, then check out the Tierlantynkies Design and Food Fair, taking place in Pretoria’s Zwavelpoort from April 26th to May 1st. It’s an explosion of all things creative, with the main aim of empowering local creatives and people (apply here if that includes you!). Artists, designers and budding entrepreneurs alike get the opportunity to showcase their work, meaning there are some truly unique treasures to be found at this event. Foodies and music lovers will also have much to be pleased about, of course, with live music entertainment and food stalls as far as the eye can see.

You see, Autumn can be just as exciting as Summer. Just put some events in your diary to get involved in the constant hustle and bustle of South Africa’s arts and entertainment scene!