From record-breaking marimba performances to iconic musicals and ocean-inspired festivities, August is packed with must-see events across the country. Whether you’re based in Cape Town, Pretoria or Johannesburg, there’s plenty on offer to keep your calendar full.
ALSO SEE: CHICAGO The Musical cast set to stun SA
Cape Town
Celebrate marine life at MPA Day 2025
The Two Oceans Aquarium is hosting a two-day celebration for Marine Protected Areas (MPA) Day on 1 and 2 August. Expect a jam-packed programme that includes rocky shore explorations, film screenings, guided snorkel tours and even a live radio broadcast. Activities will take place across Cape Town, from Kommetjie to Simon’s Town, with the aim of raising awareness around marine conservation. Whether you’re diving in or joining a beach clean-up, there’s something for all ages to enjoy.
Find out more here.
Women’s Day high tea meets art at the President Hotel
Spend Women’s Day (9 August) sipping, painting and indulging in high tea at the Botany Café in Bantry Bay. The President Hotel’s annual Sip & Paint event includes a welcome drink, a guided painting session and a curated selection of sweet and savoury treats. With views of the ocean and an afternoon of creative flair, it’s a perfect way to mark the occasion.
- Cost: R495 per person (includes painting session, welcome drink, and complete high tea service with herbal teas).
- When: 9 August 2025 | 1 pm – 4 pm
- Where: President Hotel, 4 Alexander Rd, Bantry Bay, Cape Town
Pexels
Live music returns with the After Dark concert series
The Two Oceans Aquarium’s After Dark music series is back, offering live acoustic sets against the backdrop of glowing tanks and swaying kelp. The monthly concerts run from June to September and feature top South African talent, including Mars Baby, Carla Franco and The Dirty Skirts. Tickets include full access to the aquarium before the show.
- Cost: R395 per performance. Tickets available here.
- When: 25 June, 30 July, 27 August and 23 September 2025 | doors open 6.30 pm | first act 8 pm | second act 9 pm
- Where: Two Oceans Aquarium, V&A Waterfront
CHICAGO – The Musical storms the Artscape
Broadway’s most iconic jazz-age musical returns to Cape Town from 27 August to 28 September. Expect high drama, scandalous storytelling, unforgettable choreography and hits like ‘All That Jazz’ and ‘Cell Block Tango’. The show promises top local and international talent in a stylish, high-energy production that has dazzled audiences worldwide.
- When: Wednesday, 27 August to Sunday, 28 September 2025
- Where: Artscape Opera House, D.F. Malan St, Foreshore, Cape Town
- Cost: Wed, Thur & Sun 6pm: R480, R380, R280 & R250 | Fri, Sat both shows & Sun 2pm: R580, R480, R380 & R280 | Terrific Tuesdays. Only valid for Tuesday performances: R400, R300, R250 & R200 Not valid with any other discount offer.
1,000 marimbas, one massive moment
On 2 August, GrandWest’s Grand Arena will host a Guinness World Records™ title attempt for the largest marimba ensemble in the world. Over 1 000 players from across South Africa and Zimbabwe will take to the stage in a vibrant performance themed United in Harmony. Expect djembe drumming, live art, and an emotional medley of Waka Waka and Jerusalema performed in unison.
- Date: Saturday, 2 August
- Time: Doors open at 4 pm, event starts at 5.30 pm
- Venue: GrandWest Grand Arena
- Cost: From R79
Book your tickets through Quicket.
Johannesburg
Wellness takes centre stage at The Good Life Show
Returning to Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit from 1 to 3 August, The Good Life Show is a haven for foodies, wellness enthusiasts and eco-conscious shoppers. Formerly The Plant Powered Show, it has grown into a full lifestyle event with hands-on masterclasses, chef demos, expert talks and mixology experiences. Whether you’re browsing for cruelty-free skincare or sampling new plant-based products, it’s a weekend of conscious discovery.
- Cost: R175pp (general admission). R265pp (weekend pass). Free (children u/15)
- When: Friday to Sunday, 1 to 3 August | Friday and Saturday from 10am to 6pm. Sunday from 10am to 4pm
- Where: Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit, R55 & Allandale Road, Kyalami Estate, Midrand
Book via Quicket.
Broadway favourites with Jonathan Roxmouth
Beloved performer Jonathan Roxmouth brings his personal Broadway playlist to life in My Favourite Broadway, showcasing standout numbers from shows like The Phantom of the Opera, Les Misérables and Sweeney Todd. Expect soaring vocals and masterful storytelling from one of South Africa’s most versatile stage talents. Dates and venue details to be confirmed.
- Cost: From R240pp to R490pp
- When: Friday to Sunday, 1 to 3 August | Friday at 7.30pm, Saturday at 2pm and 7.30pm, Sunday at 2pm
- Where: Teatro at Monte Casino, Teatro Road, 1 Montecasino Blvd, Fourways, Johannesburg
Book via Webtickets.
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Featured Image: Pexels
