South Africa’s Women’s Day in Cape Town: What is the date and history behind it?

Every year on August 9th, South Africa pauses to honour the courageous women who marched to the Union Buildings in 1956 in defiance of injustice. In Cape Town, this historic moment is remembered not just through words, but through movement, art, music, and meaningful connection.

From the icy Atlantic to the rooftop terraces, Women’s Day is marked across the Mother City in ways that speak to the strength, softness, and brilliance of women. Here’s your curated guide to events that blend empowerment with experience — whether you’re up for a sunrise swim or a sparkling brunch.

Dive Into Freedom: Simon’s Bay Mile Women’s Day Swim

For water lovers and wave warriors, this all-women open-water swim is both a challenge and a celebration. The 1-mile course loops through the pristine Simon’s Bay, where swimmers glide past kelp forests under the gaze of the mountains. All participants receive a finisher’s gift, making it an inspiring event for swimmers of all ages and abilities.

• Date: 9 August 2025 | 8:30 AM

• Location: Long Beach Public Beach, Driegebroeders Rd, Simon’s Town

• Cost: R300

• Info: Hosted by Swim Cape Town

  
  
  

Authority of Softness: Women’s Month Art Exhibition

Step into a space where softness is power. AITY Gallery’s Authority of Softness showcases the bold, beautiful work of 13 female artists using mediums from bronze to fibre. The exhibit is a love letter to feminine energy, joy, and truth — a gentle rebellion against rigid systems.

• Dates: 1–18 August 2025

• Location: AITY Gallery, The Old Biscuit Mill, 375 Albert Rd, Woodstock

• Website: aitygallery.com

• Contact: 087 808 7021 | [email protected]

  
  
  

• Socials: WhatsApp: +27 83 463 0392 | Instagram: @aitygallery

 Women’s Day: Sip & Social at Capegate

Looking for a calm, curated way to celebrate? Capegate’s Sip & Social offers inspiration and indulgence in equal measure. Enjoy an empowering talk by radio host Sherlin Barends, join a textured art workshop, and indulge in a Champagne and macaron pairing courtesy of CANTO Wines. Guests will leave with a luxe Catrice beauty gift bag.

• Date: 9 August 2025

• Location: Cape Gate Shopping Centre

  
  
  

• Cost: R375

Glow Up & Brunch: 12 Apostles Hotel & Spa

For those craving a luxurious escape, the Glow Up & Brunch experience promises self-care in the lap of Cape Town’s natural beauty. Set between ocean and mountain, this event includes pampering skincare demos, motivational talks, a feast-worthy brunch, and take-home gifts designed to keep your glow going long after the day ends.

• Date: 8 August 2025

• Location: 12 Apostles Hotel & Spa, Victoria Rd, Camps Bay

• Cost: R475

Women in Jazz: A Tribute to the Icons

Bush Radio marks its 30th year on air with Women in Jazz, a soul-stirring tribute to South Africa’s most powerful female voices in jazz. This special concert features Babalwa Mentjies, the dynamic Lady Day Big Band, and Auriol Hays performing an intimate tribute to Nina Simone. Expect rhythm, resonance, and revolutionary spirit.

• Date: 9 August 2025

• Location: Artscape Opera House, D.F. Malan St, Foreshore

• Cost: R350 – R600

• Tickets: Available via Webtickets

The VLAMageddon Ball: Fashion, Fierceness & Fundraising

The Mother City’s ballroom scene comes alive with The VLAMageddon Ball, a post-apocalyptic fashion showdown like no other. Expect explosive energy in categories like Best Dressed, Face, Realness, and Sex Siren — all open to everyone. Proceeds will support a local women’s shelter, and attendees are encouraged to bring sanitary products for donation.

The showstopper? A halftime performance by South Africa’s first Miss Continental, Vida Fantabisher, followed by late-night DJ sets that promise to keep the energy glowing.

• Date: 9 August 2025

• Info: Part of proceeds go to community initiatives

Bonus Tip from Cape {town} Etc

Want to experience Cape Town for less? Don’t forget to check out our exclusive discounts on activities, restaurants and hidden gems. These deals are limited, so grab yours before they disappear!