Two Oceans Marathon energy meets music and a stunning light festival in Cape Town this weekend

Bernelee Vollmer|Published

The Two Oceans Marathon.

Image: X/@VOCfm

The Two Oceans Marathon

This is one of South Africa’s most iconic long‑distance running events, held annually in Cape Town each April.

It features a 56km ultra‑marathon on Saturday, April 11, and a 21km half-marathon on Sunday, April 12, attracting thousands of local and international participants.

Both races start on Main Road in Newlands and finish at the UCT Rugby Fields on Upper Campus, Rondebosch.

The ultra‑marathon route takes runners around the Cape Peninsula, passing through Muizenberg, St James, Kalk Bay, Hout Bay and Constantia Nek, while many of those participating in the half-marathon run along Southern Cross Drive and through the Southern Suburbs before ending at the same finish precinct.

Known as “the world’s most beautiful marathon”, the Two Oceans Marathon courses are celebrated for their stunning ocean and mountain views, making it as much a scenic experience as a test of endurance.

Spectators are a big part of the event’s atmosphere. Crowds line the route to cheer on runners, offering encouragement and creating a lively environment.

Popular spectator spots include Main Road, Muizenberg, Kalk Bay and Southern Cross Drive, where music, bands and cheering crowds contribute to a vibrant experience for both runners and onlookers.

At the official finish near the University of Cape Town, the vibe is celebratory, with areas for family and friends to welcome finishers, enjoy refreshments and take in live entertainment.

Where: Start location, Main Road in Newlands, Cape Town. Finish at UCT Rugby Fields, Upper Campus, Rondebosch

When: Saturday, April 11, and Sunday, April 12.

Lumenocity

Lumenocity is Cape Town’s immersive light festival, showcasing stunning installations, projection art, and interactive displays by South African artists.

Visitors can wander through illuminated pathways, experience large-scale LED artworks, and enjoy creative projections that respond to movement. The festival blends art, technology, and imagination.

Where: Company’s Garden.

When: Thursday, April 9, to Sunday, April 12, at 5.30pm to 11.30pm.

Free concert

Spend your Sunday enjoying live music at the V&A Waterfront Amphitheatre, featuring performances by local artists like Siya Kawana and other Cape Town favourites. 

Where: V&A Waterfront Amphitheatre.

When: Sunday,  April 12, at 4pm.