Tango fever hits Cape Town this December
The Tango Africano Festival in Cape Town from December 4-8 features sultry performances, social dance evenings, and world-class workshops that promise to immerse you in the passion of Argentine Tango.
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This festive season, Cape Town will be swept up in the rhythm and romance of Argentina as the “Tango Africano Festival” brings an immersive celebration of music and dance from December 4-8.
With sultry performances, social dance evenings, and world-class workshops, the city is set to transform into a hub of passion and connection through the art of the Tango.
Since 2017, Cape Town has hosted Argentine Tango festivals that have drawn dancers from across South Africa and abroad.
This year’s edition promises to be no different, offering eight social dance gatherings with live and DJ’d music, alongside ten combined lessons and workshops.
For visitors to Cape Town, the summer timing of the festival makes it a cultural highlight of the holiday season.
The festival’s mission is to create a warm, inclusive environment where anyone can celebrate Tango’s beauty, whether you’re a seasoned dancer, a curious beginner, or simply a spectator.
With the mantra, “If you can walk, you can Tango”, no dance partner is required, making the festival accessible to all.
Festival highlights
Pinelands Girl Guides Hall
December 5-6. Two full-day events, with registration required.
V&A Waterfront
December 7. Free Tango lessons and social dances at the TimeOut Market and Pierhead Deck at sunset - open to the public.
December 4 at SALT Restaurant and at the Waterfront Theatre School, December 8.
Informal social dance events to kick off and close the festival.
Adding to the atmosphere, live Tango music performances will set the scene at major social dances. Festival-goers can also enjoy workshops taught by a team of renowned local and international instructors, covering Tango technique, Argentine folk dance, and Tango DJ-ing.
Registration details
Early-bird passes are available at R850 per adult until 31 October, with full registration closing on 30 November at R1100.
Events on 4 and 7 December are free and open to the public, ideal for anyone curious about experiencing Tango for the first time.
With its intoxicating mix of music, movement, and magic, the Tango Africano Festival offers Capetonians and visitors alike a chance to step into the romance of Buenos Aires without leaving the Mother City.
IOL Entertainment