The J&B Met

One of the most prestigious and anticipated events on Cape Town's social calendar, the J&B Met is not only about thoroughbreds, but also about glamorous fashion, entertainment and sophistication.

The Mother City Queer Project

This annual party is the pride and joy of the Cape Town gay scene. Each year has a different theme and the event is open to all and sundry you go out of their way to bring the event to life.

Hermanus Whale Festival

Every year, southern right whales travel thousands of miles to the Cape south coast to mate and calve in the bays. Join the villagers of Hermanus for an entertainment-packed festival, in the town with the best land-based whale watching in the world.

• Where: Hermanus
• When: September
• Website: www.whalefestival.co.za

Knysna Gastronomica

A new addition to South Africa's festival circuit, the Knysna Gastronomica is a celebration of good food, wine and culture in the coastal town of Knysna.

• Where: Knysna
• When: September
• Website: www.gastronomicakny.co.za

Prince Albert Agricultural Show

Join the people of Prince Albert as they celebrate their agricultural heritage in September. The show offers homecrafts, art and flowers, horses on show, motorbike obstacle route, sheep and Angora goat competitions, local products, delicious food, bar facilities and entertainment for young and old. The farm breakfast and steak braai are a must.

• Where: Prince Albert
• When: September
• Website: www.patourism.co.za

Spier Summer Festival

In the lush winelands of the Western Cape, at the amphitheatre on the Spier Estate, the annual Spier Summer Festival offers four months of music, opera, dance, stand-up comedy and theatre. First held in 1995, the festival runs from December to March.

• Where: Stellenbosch
• When: December to March
• Website: www.spierarts.co.za