Halloween falls on a Saturday this year, giving Cape Town residents a full weekend to immerse themselves in the spooky atmosphere. Whether you prefer dressing up and walking the streets, dancing late into the night, or hosting a horror movie night on the big screen, there is an activity for every taste. Below are five Halloween events worth adding to your calendar.
Zombie Walk in Cape Town
The streets of Cape Town will transform into an arena for zombies, ghosts, and other Halloween characters thanks to the annual Zombie Walk. This event is open to all ages and invites both elaborate costume enthusiasts and beginners to join the procession or simply watch the spectacle. Furthermore, the fundraiser supports the Lucky Lucy Foundation, which is dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating animals that have been abused or neglected. It is an opportunity to enjoy one of the city's most unusual traditions while supporting a noble cause.
Prime Presents Halloween
Those looking for an active nightlife experience for Halloween can visit the Paradise club for the Prime Presents Halloween event. This event merges various music genres, including hip-hop, R&B, house, and gqom, offering guests many options for dancing throughout the evening. Attendees are encouraged to wear costumes inspired by their favorite pop culture characters, music videos, or memorable fashion eras. Whether you arrive in a meticulously planned outfit or more casually, the main idea is to have fun within the theme, enjoying local music and dancing.
The Horror Story Film Screening
For those who prefer a theatrical take on Halloween celebrations, the The Horror Story Picture Show brings together several Cape Town nightlife venues into one unified themed event. Guests can expect two dance floors and a soundtrack covering house, electronic music, pop hits, retro songs, and 'sinful pleasures,' featuring DJs such as Housewife, Kong, Wata Mami, and Tanner Mason. In addition to music, the evening includes drag performances, pole dancing, and aerial acts, along with surprises, photo booths, and prizes. The Looks Runway show provides another reason to put effort into a costume, whether glamorous, grotesque, or completely whimsical. Surfa Rosa has its own musical program, so it is important to check ticket options if you wish to access all venues.
South African HORRORFEST
Film lovers can extend their Halloween festivities beyond the weekend by attending the 22nd South African HORRORFEST. The annual festival presents an international selection of horror films, short films, and special screenings at the Labia theatre, offering a program ranging from contemporary works to classic cinema. A highlight is the screening of F.W. Murnau's silent film 'Faust' from 1926 on Halloween night, celebrating its centenary with a live original soundtrack performed by the Makabra ensemble. The program also includes a 'Nightmare and Doll' audience participation session on Friday, October 30th, and a special 16mm screening of the 1939 classic 'Les Misérables' on Sunday, November 8th. Since individual screenings have age restrictions, details must be checked before purchasing tickets.
Galileo Open-Air Cinema: Halloween Films
For an outdoor Halloween experience under the stars, the Galileo Open-Air Cinema offers a selection of films catering to different audiences. Younger viewers can watch the Disney Pixar animated adventure 'Coco,' about a boy who enters the Land of the Dead, while adult horror fans can choose 'Weapon,' a mystical mystery centered on the unexplained disappearance of children from one class. The open setting serves as an alternative to a typical Halloween party, and guests are encouraged to dress up and bring blankets. Tickets include cinema entry, popcorn, a backrest, and a blanket. The 'Weapon' screening is restricted to viewers aged 18 and over. Bookings are made through Webtickets, and it is advisable to verify the chosen film and session before purchasing tickets.