The first Thursday of each month is a standout date for Cape Town locals, hosting a lively celebration of art, culture, food, wine and entertainment.
Also read: From city to sea, the Cape Creative Collective brings First Thursdays south
Originating in London, First Thursdays reached Cape Town in 2012, thanks to Gareth Pearson and Michael Tymbios, the founders of Thursdays Projects.
The Cape Town Central City Improvement District (CCID) urges residents and visitors to remain vigilant while enjoying the city’s vibes.
These are the CCID’s safety tips to avoid petty crimes:
- Ignore fraudsters who insist that you need a permit to walk in the streets
- Do not hand over your phone to anyone
- Do not accept help from strangers or disclose your PIN
- If your card gets stuck in an ATM, follow the prompts on the machine. Do not walk away
- Do not flash jewellery, cameras or laptops
- Don’t use your cell phone in public
- Don’t leave handbags under tables or on the backs of chairs in restaurants
- Don’t leave your cell phone or wallet unattended
- Keep valuables out of sight
- Always lock your car doors and double-check them to avoid becoming a victim of remote jamming
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Here’s some of what you can look forward to:
Art
CHURCH Projects
CHURCH is a project space dedicated to artistic experimentation, innovation, and exploration within the arts.
Unlike traditional exhibitions and shows, CHURCH distinguishes itself by offering a platform for art interventions. Rather than adhering to a set programming schedule, CHURCH opts for flexibility, regularly announcing upcoming interventions within the space.
Times: Wednesday to Friday 10am to 5pm | Saturday 10am to 1pm | Sunday 11:30am to 1pm
Location: 58 Church Street, Cape Town CBD
Website: churchprojects.co.za
Bo-Kaap Cultural Hub
Discover the captivating story of the Cape Malay experience at the Bo-Kaap Cultural Hub. From the early days of slavery to the present, explore artefacts, photos, and multimedia installations showcasing the resilience of the Bo-Kaap community.
The current exhibition, in collaboration with Our Cape Town Heritage, is open from Thursday, 7th March, to Sunday, 10th March 2024.
Times: First Thursdays, 5pm to 10pm
Location: 26 Pentz Street (off Wale Street), Bo-Kaap, Cape Town
Website: @ourcapetownheritage / Instagram
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99 Loop Gallery
Established in 2015 and situated in the heart of Cape Town, 99 Loop Gallery stands as a vibrant contemporary art space. With a distinct curatorial focus on painting, the gallery takes pride in fostering collaboration with both seasoned and up-and-coming local artists.
99 Loop actively supports creatives whose work delves into intimate lived experiences within broader cultural and aesthetic realms. The gallery’s exhibition programme, marked by its subversive and dynamic essence, aims to challenge conventions.
Times: Mondays to Fridays 10am to 4pm | Saturdays 10am to 2pm | First Thursdays 5pm to 8pm
Location: Cnr Loop and Church, Cape Town CBD
Website: 99loop.co.za
To see more art exhibitions, visit First Thursdays Cape Town here.
Food and drinks
The Drinkery
The Drinkery in Cape Town is more than just a bar – it’s a blend of gallery and cocktail haven, housed in a former slave prison. This contemporary speakeasy offers a comfortable space adorned with contemporary artwork on exposed brick walls, creating a living room-like ambience. Various seating areas, including a chessboard for guests, make it an inviting spot to unwind.
The drinks menu at The Drinkery is a journey in itself, starting with experiential cocktails like the Purp Royale, featuring Courvoisier VSOP, Cape Vintage port, absinthe, cranberry, and muscovado. Highballs and a selection of classics follow suit. Wine enthusiasts will appreciate a curated list showcasing some of South Africa’s finest offerings.
Times: First Thursdays, 4pm until late
Location: Mezzanine level, Heritage Square, 100 Shortmarket Street, Cape Town CBD
Website: @thedrinkeryza / Instagram
Tjing Tjing House
Located on Longmarket Street in a 200-year-old heritage building, Tjing Tjing House is a unique Cape Town eatery with a Japanese twist.
The Rooftop Bar at Tjing Tjing, set in the restored attic, embodies Japanese elegance. This bespoke menu offers a fusion of classic cocktails with a modern twist, Japanese whisky, gin, saké, and an extensive wine list, including Tjing Tjing’s own house wine.
Times: Tuesday to Saturday, 12pm to 1am
Location: 165 Longmarket Street, Cape Town CBD
Website: tjingtjing.co.za
The Blue Room
Discover The Blue Room @ Grub & Vine at 103 Bree Street, the city’s go-to live music lounge. Hosting top talents and promising artists, it’s a hub for live music lovers, spanning jazz, blues and more.
Not just about the music, The Blue Room extends the experience with decadent food, an exciting wine list, and signature cocktails.
Times: Tuesday to Saturday, 4pm to 11pm
Location: 103 Bree Street, Cape Town CBD
Website: theblueroomza.com
For more recommendations, visit First Thursdays Cape Town here.
Music
Culture Wine Bar
Step into a warm and diverse community united by one thing: a love for good wine. At Culture Wine Bar, enjoy a carefully chosen selection of fine wines, including local favourites, hidden gems, and international imports.
Complement your wine experience with their tempting menu featuring snacks like charcuterie, cheese, and Chef Matt’s specials – from prawn Po’Boy to the famous Croque Monsieur.
Times: Monday to Saturday, 12pm to 11pm | First Thursdays, 6pm to 11pm
Location: 103 Bree Street, Cape Town CBD
Website: culturewinebar.com
The House of Machines
Discover The House of Machines (THoM) – more than just a place, it’s a meeting house crafted for creating ‘good times, great memories.’ Born from a simple handshake, THoM embraces a like-minded community, offering a warm escape from the daily hustle.
Times: Monday to Friday, 7am to 2am | Saturday, 9am to 2am
Location: 84 Shortmarket Street, Cape Town CBD
Website: thehouseofmachines.com
Openwine
At Openwine, immerse yourself in the world of niche South African wines, savouring each sip in a welcoming atmosphere. The wine bar and enoteca host regular jazz sessions and several other events.
Times: First Thursdays, 5pm to 11pm
Location: 72 Wale Street, Cape Town CBD
Website: @openwine / Instagram
For more recommendations, visit First Thursdays Cape Town here.
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Picture: Nigel SB Photography / Unsplash