Cape Town offers a rich cultural lineup this October, celebrating the power of storytelling across mediums. The European Film Festival returns with ten compelling cinematic works exploring identity, love, and Europe’s evolving place in the world. In Cape Town, the Norval Foundation honours the late Githan Coopoo with Tears Now But Heaven Tomorrow, a moving tribute to the artist’s innovative work in clay. Theatre lovers can experience To Life, With Love, a deeply personal solo performance at the Baxter Theatre, while design enthusiasts can step inside the city’s creative heart during Open Studios Cape Town, a one-night-only tour of architectural and design studios in the CBD.
1. European Film Festival in South Africa
When: 14-19 October
Where: The Bioscope and Nu Metro Hyde Park in Johannesburg
The 12th European Film Festival is a cinematic journey in search of love, identity, family, and belonging. Ten contemporary European films reflect on the realities of Europe and its place in the world now.
More Info: https://lifebrands.co.za/events-experiences/european-film-festival-in-south-africa-2025
2. Tears Now But Heaven Tomorrow
When: 15 October
Where: Norval Foundation, Tokai
Norval Foundation is proud to present Tears Now But Heaven Tomorrow, an exhibition honouring the legacy of South African artist Githan Coopoo (1994–2025), whose singular voice redefined the possibilities of clay in contemporary art.
3. “To Life, With Love”
When: 14–25 October 2025
Where: Golden Arrow Theatre, Baxter Theatre Centre, Rondebosch
A reflective solo show drawing on themes of love, loss, mortality and meaning — weaving autobiographical insight and poetic storytelling.
More Info: https://baxter.uct.ac.za/events/life-love
4. Open Studios — Architecture & Design Showcase
When: 15 October
Where: Cape Town central business district (various architecture, landscape, interior design studios)
A behind-the-scenes tour of creative spaces in the city — designers and architects open their studios to the public. Visitors can walk a mapped route, see ongoing work, meet creators, and see interactive installations.
More Info: https://www.openstudios.co.za/line-up
Full a full rundown of our featured events, be sure to visit our Cape Events Guide – www.lifebrands.co.za/cape-event-guide