First Thursdays. It’s a Cape Town institution. Once a month, the city centre transforms from a business hub into a massive, walkable street party celebrating art, culture, and—let’s be honest—a sneaky mid-week dop. Galleries keep their doors open till late, food trucks line the streets, and bars spill out onto the pavements.
It’s an awesome vibe, but it can also be overwhelming. Where do you start? Which galleries are actually worth seeing? And where can you get a drink without queuing for an hour?
Don’t worry, we’ve got you. Here is your practical, no-nonsense guide to navigating First Thursdays like a pro in 2024.
The Game Plan: How It Works
- When: The first Thursday of every month. Galleries are usually open from around 17:00 to 21:00, but the party in the bars and restaurants goes on much later.
- Where: The main action happens in the CBD, concentrated around Church Street, Bree Street, and Loop Street. There’s also a cool hub over in the East City (Harrington Street area).
- Cost: Walking around and entering galleries is 100% free. You only pay for your food, drinks, and any shopping you do.
- Getting Around: Your own two feet are your best transport. Park your car in a garage on the outskirts (like near the Convention Centre) or just Uber in to avoid the parking headache.
A Curated Route for a Solid Night Out
You can just rock up and wander, but having a loose plan helps. Here’s a route that hits a good mix of established art, fresh talent, and vibe.
Start: The Church Street Art Strip (Around 17:30)
Begin your evening on the pedestrianised section of Church Street (between Burg and Long). This is the throbbing heart of First Thursdays.
- AVA Gallery (Association for Visual Arts): Kick things off at one of Cape Town’s oldest non-profit galleries. They always have diverse, contemporary exhibitions from both new and established SA artists. It’s a great cultural baseline.
- Worldart: Just down the road, pop into Worldart. This small gallery punches above its weight with cool, often urban-influenced and pop-art style pieces. It’s accessible and fun.
- The Street Vibe: As you walk down Church Street, soak up the atmosphere. There are often street markets, buskers, and smaller pop-up exhibitions along the way.
Middle: Loop and Bree Street Wanderers (Around 18:30 – 20:00)
Now, head over one block to Loop Street and then up to Bree.
- 99 Loop Gallery: On the corner of Loop and Church, this is a must-visit. It’s a beautiful, light-filled space that showcases a fantastic mix of contemporary painting and sculpture. They often have two or three different exhibitions running at once.
- Youngblood Africa: Head up Bree Street to this multi-level arts and culture hub. It’s huge and often hosts live performances or music alongside its art exhibitions. There’s usually a buzzing bar inside, too.
- Gallery Hopping on Bree: Just stroll up Bree Street. You’ll pass numerous design studios, boutique shops that stay open late, and smaller galleries. Pop your head into whatever looks interesting.
End: Drinks and Dinner (20:00 onwards)
By now, you’ve got your culture fix. It’s time to eat and drink. Bree Street is your oyster, but it gets packed.
- The Gin Bar: Tucked behind Honest Chocolate on Wale Street, this is a perennial favourite for exquisite gin cocktails in a beautiful courtyard setting.
- Clarke’s Bar & Dining Room: A Bree Street classic on the corner of Church. Great burgers, cocktails, and a always-lively vibe on First Thursdays.
- Leo’s Wine Bar: For something a bit trendier, check out this spot inside Max Bagels on Bree. It’s all about natural wines and a cool crowd.
- East City Alternative: If the CBD is too chaotic, grab an Uber to Harrington Street in the East City. It has a grittier, cooler feel with great spots like Harrington’s Cocktail Lounge and various other bars and eateries participating in the night.
Final Pro-Tips
- Wear comfortable shoes. Seriously. You will be walking a lot.
- Book for dinner. If you want a sit-down meal at a specific restaurant on Bree or Kloof Street, book weeks in advance. Otherwise, be prepared to grab street food or wait for a table at a walk-in spot.
- Go with the flow. The best part of First Thursdays is bumping into friends and discovering something unexpected. Don’t be too rigid with your plan.
Check out the official First Thursdays website or their Instagram a few days before for the specific monthly highlights and map. See you on the streets!