Things to do on Freedom Day in Cape Town

Visit a museum for free, do a freedom run, watch a kids’ show

Last updated: Tuesday, 25 April 2023

It’s South Africa’s 29th year of democracy, an opportunity to celebrate and immerse yourself in our country’s rich history. Sign up for a freedom run, visit one of the Iziko Museums for free, meet iconic freedom fighters or watch a heartwarming children’s story this Freedom Day. 

CELEBRATE THE LEGACY OF MANDELA 

Mr. Hare meets Mr. Mandela, based on the bestselling children’s book by Chris van Wyk, is showing at the Homecoming Centre in District Six this Freedom Day. Watch the story of Mr. Hare's brave journey as he tries to return a R200 note to its rightful owner, Nelson Mandela. This book-to-play adaptation is presented by Ticket to The Moon Youth Theatre Company and highlights the power of storytelling to inspire and educate.

Date: Saturday 15 April - Sunday 30 April
Cost: R150pp, book via Quicket 

Avalon Auditorium | District Six | 021 466 7200 | @homecomingcentre | Image: Homecoming Centre

TAKE PART IN A FREEDOM RUN

The Cheverells Farm Shed will be hosting its second Freedom Day Trail Run on 27 April 2023. Enjoy a stunning 5km or 12km route through apple orchards and neighbouring farms. Each runner will receive a can of Vitafit. Plus, breakfast rolls and coffees will be on sale, or enjoy a brekkie at the Farm Shed Café. Part of the proceeds will be donated to Tuf Cat Sanctuary, an animal welfare charity in the Western Cape. Find out more about Cheverells Farm.

Date: Thursday, 27 April; from 8am
Cost: From R185; book your slot via Vitafit

55 Highlands Road | Elgin Valley| Grabouw | @cheverellsfarm | Image: Cheverells Farm

GO TO A MARKET

District Six Museum and Koe’sister Magazine are collaborating with a market, to create upliftment in the community and a safe environment for local entrepreneurs to trade. Listen to live music by resident band Glen Robertson Trio, and check out a number of vendors selling clothes, beauty and wellness products, decor, art, food and more. The market will be hosted at the District Six Museum Homecoming Centre.

Date: Saturday, 29 April; 10am - 4pm
Cost: R45 pp, free for kids under 12; registration is online via Quicket

 

 

 

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WALK AMONG HEROES

If you want to educate yourself about the country’s history, visit the Long March to Freedom exhibition in Century City. The exhibition has 100 bronze life-sized sculptures, featuring some of the most iconic freedom fighters (as well as some you might not know of). Take a photo with Nelson Mandela, Miriam Makeba or Helen Suzman and learn more about apartheid in South Africa.

Date: Monday to Friday, 9am - 6pm; Saturdays, 8am - 6pm; Sundays, 9am - 4pm
Cost: R10 for South African citizens, free for kids under 6

Century City | Cape Town | 011 646 5595 | Image: Aaron Ludski

DINE IN A HISTORIC BUILDING

Taj Cape Town is built on two opulent heritage sites: The original South African Reserve Bank and former lawyers’ rooms, the Temple Chambers. This history has been seamlessly integrated into Taj Cape Town’s luxurious modern additions. Take advantage of the signature Thursday special at Mint Restaurant & Wood-Fired Grill – Butterfly Prawns with hand-cut fries, a Mediterranean salad and draught beer or wine of choice. 

Hours: 6.30am - 10pm
Cost: R225

1 Wale Street | St Georges Mall | CBD | @tajcapetown | Image: Taj Cape Town

VISIT THE IZIKO MUSEUMS

Iziko Museums is commemorating this Freedom Day with free entry to select museums. Spend your day walking through the Iziko South African Museum, Slave Lodge South African National Gallery and Bo-Kaap Museum.

Date: Thursday, 27 April; times differ for each museum
Cost: Free on special days

Government Avenue | Gardens | 021 481 3970 | @izikomuseumssa | Image: Iziko South African Gallery

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DISCOVER THE TASTE OF SOUTH AFRICA

From Cape to Cairo: Celebrate Africa at Gold Restaurant.

Pop by this quaint and historical café in Tamboerskloof.

Check out the top African restaurants in Cape Town. 

Discover +7 things to do this weekend.

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