Cape Town has once again earned international acclaim, recently being named Time Out’s Best City in the World for 2025! This honor builds on its previous accolades, including World’s Best Food City at the 2024 Condé Nast Traveller Readers’ Choice Awards and a top spot in the 2023 Telegraph Travel Awards.
Known for its incredible cuisine, breathtaking natural beauty, pristine beaches, world-class wine farms, and vibrant nightlife, Cape Town is also gaining recognition for its flourishing arts and culture scene. In fact, Time Out declared it the “best in the world” for quality.
February 2025 marks an exciting time for Cape Town, as it hosts two major art events: the Investec Cape Town Art Fair, Africa’s largest contemporary art fair, and the second Stellenbosch Triennale.
These events will turn the city and its surrounding regions into a global arts hub, drawing collectors, galleries, curators, artists, and journalists. Beyond these marquee events, Cape Town’s galleries, museums, and cultural institutions will showcase extended programmes, celebrating the region’s artistic richness.
Here’s a curated list of 10 must-visit artistic and cultural destinations to immerse yourself in Cape Town’s art scene in February 2025
1. Investec Cape Town Art Fair 2025
When? 21–23 February 2025
Where? Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC)
The Investec Cape Town Art Fair is the premier destination for contemporary African art, featuring over 124 exhibitors from five continents. With 30,000 attendees expected, the 2025 edition also boasts 30 first-time exhibitors—a record-breaking number.
Alongside the main event, visitors can enjoy a week-long celebration across the city, including art walks, panel discussions, and insights into the African art market. Highlights include standout galleries like Goodman Gallery, SMAC Gallery, LEESAYA (Tokyo), and Afriart Gallery (Uganda), offering diverse global and local perspectives.
Tickets can be purchased via WebTickets.
2. Stellenbosch Triennale 2025
When? 19 February – 30 April 2025
Where? Various venues in Stellenbosch
Set in the historic winelands town of Stellenbosch, this multidisciplinary art festival brings public art to life under the theme BA’ZINZILE: A Rehearsal for Breathing.
Featuring artists from across Africa and beyond, the Triennale offers a diverse array of installations, sculptures, performances, and sound art. Chief curator Khanyisile Mbongwa has created an evolving programme at venues like Oude Libertas, blending culture with Stellenbosch’s stunning natural landscapes.
Visit www.investeccapetownartfair.
3. Norval Foundation
Where? Tokai, Cape Town
A modern haven for African art, the Norval Foundation boasts a sculpture garden set against Table Mountain, a research library, and evolving exhibitions. Highlights include works by William Kentridge and Deborah Bell, alongside a serene dining experience at the Skotnes Restaurant and Bar.
4. Zeitz MOCAA
Where? Silo District, V&A Waterfront
Home to the world’s largest collection of contemporary African art, Zeitz MOCAA is a must-visit. Housed in a repurposed grain silo, this architectural marvel features over 1,000 artworks exploring themes of identity, history, and social justice. The museum also offers art talks, workshops, and film screenings.
5. Iziko Bo-Kaap Museum
Where? Bo-Kaap, Cape Town
Delve into Cape Town’s multicultural heritage at the Iziko Bo-Kaap Museum. Housed in one of the area’s oldest homes, this museum explores the neighbourhood’s Muslim heritage, vibrant history, and its evolution from a settlement for enslaved people to a symbol of cultural resilience.
6. Cultural Districts and Arts Tours
Explore Cape Town’s artistic depth with tours of districts like the Langa Cultural Precinct. Visit highlights like the Guga S’thebe Arts & Cultural Centre or the Salt River street art scene. For a curated experience, try Culture Connect SA’s bespoke art tours, which include galleries, studios, and private collections.
7. Art in the Vineyards
Pair art with fine wine at estates like Spier, Groot Constantia, and Delaire Graff. These wine farms boast stunning collections, from Dutch Old Masters to contemporary works by William Kentridge and Lionel Smit.
8. Irma Stern Museum
Where? Rosebank, Cape Town
Step into the former home of renowned artist Irma Stern. The museum houses an extensive collection of her works, offering a glimpse into her vibrant expressionist style and creative space.
9. Art Restaurants
Discover culinary and visual art at spots like La Colombe (Constantia), Le Quartier Français (Franschhoek), and Truth Coffee (City Centre). These establishments blend exceptional cuisine with curated art displays.
10. Dylan Lewis Sculpture Garden
Where? Stellenbosch
Set against Stellenbosch Mountain, this garden showcases over 60 sculptures by Dylan Lewis. The pieces explore themes of wilderness and mythology, seamlessly blending art with nature.
February 2025 promises a cultural feast in Cape Town, with art, wine, history, and nature intertwining to create unforgettable experiences. Which destination are you most excited to explore?
Watch this space for updates in the Opinion category on Running Wolf’s Rant.
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