Cape Racing Picture: Supplied
Prepare for a remarkable season of horseracing in Cape Town! The 2024/2025 Cape Racing Summer Festival of Racing is back and better than ever, offering eight captivating race-days from 23 November 2024 to 16 March 2025, all hosted at the iconic Hollywoodbets Kenilworth Racecourse.
Following the success of the 2023/2024 season, the upcoming Summer Festival of Racing promises to be even more spectacular. With large crowds expected at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth Racecourse, the eagerly awaited festival offers far more than just horseracing; it’s a complete lifestyle experience packed with entertainment, delicious food, shopping, and activities for the whole family. Featuring a line-up of world-class events, the Summer Festival of Racing is primed to become the ultimate entertainment hub of the season!
Whether you’re a seasoned horseracing fan, a newcomer eager to experience it for the first time, or simply seeking a fantastic day out, each raceday offers a blend of competitive action and a lively social atmosphere, making it an ideal outing for everyone.
Donovan Everitt, Chief Operating Officer of Cape Racing, states, “The Summer Festival of Racing is more than just the races; it’s a celebration of community, culture, and the vibrant lifestyle that Cape Town embodies. We’re excited to unite families, friends, and racing enthusiasts for an unforgettable experience.”
CommunityFest, featuring Cape Punters Cup (Gr2): 23 November 2024
The first event on the line-up is the CommunityFest, featuring the Gr2 Cape Punters Cup, an important stepping stone into the Hollywoodbets Gr1 Cape Guineas on 14 December. This popular event combines the thrill of racing with exciting community activities, making it a perfect day out for families and friends.
With free entry via Quicket, everyone can join in on the fun, experiencing the warmth and camaraderie of the city’s vibrant spirit. Expect live music, interactive games, a dedicated kids’ area, community market, and a festive atmosphere that truly celebrates the heart of the community.
Sip & Shop, featuring the World Sports Betting Cape Fillies Guineas (Gr1): 07 December 2024
Indulge in a day of exciting racing and retail therapy at the Sip & Shop, featuring the World Sports Betting Gr1 Cape Fillies Guineas a time-honoured clash of the classic generation’s fairer sex stars. It’s a seamless combination of elite level horseracing with a curated shopping experience. Guests can explore a specially selected array of trendy, ready-to-wear and couture fashion while sipping delicious cocktails and mingling with fellow fashion and horseracing enthusiasts.
Featuring local artisans and boutique retailers, this unique fashion pop-up store offers a preview of looks for the World Sports Betting Cape Town MET 2025. With free entry via Quicket, attendees can enjoy the perfect blend of excitement and relaxation, creating an ideal opportunity to discover new favourites while cheering on their chosen horses.
Kaapse Klopse Voorsmakie, featuring Hollywoodbets Cape Guineas (Gr1): 14 December 2024
Another eagerly anticipated annual event is the Kaapse Klopse Voorsmakie, featuring the Hollywoodbets Cape Guineas. The classic mile establishes the sophomore generation’s future champions and the honour roll is a celebration of equine stars. This day honours Cape Town’s rich culture with vibrant Klopse performances. Its iconic status comes from its ability to unite people, fostering a sense of community and cultural joy.
With colourful costumes, infectious music, and lively dance routines, it creates an electrifying atmosphere that celebrates the city’s heritage and attracts those who appreciate local culture. With free entry through Quicket, the “Voorsmakie” guarantees a packed high-quality horseracing, music and dance, making it a must-see for both locals and visitors.
Festive Fair, featuring De Grendel Cape Merchants (Gr2): 22 December 2024
Celebrate the festive season at the Festive Fair featuring the De Grendel Cape Merchants, a clash of the speed merchants down the Hollywoodbets Kenilworth 1200m straight. This event is perfect for those looking to embrace the holiday spirit while enjoying competitive racing. Entry is free through Quicket, providing a fantastic opportunity for families and friends to come together, enjoy the sunshine, do some last-minute festive shopping, and create lasting memories during this magical time of year.
L’Ormarins King’s Plate (Gr1): 04 January 2025
As one of the Summer Festival of Racing’s most prestigious events, elegance meets adrenaline at the L’Ormarins Gr1 King’s Plate. The 1600m contest is the premier weight-for-age race on the South African racing calendar. Known for its high-class racing and stylish spectators, this event invites guests to dress to impress in blue and white and enjoy a day of luxury and excitement. With tickets going on sale in November, it’s the perfect way to kick off the new year in style, making it a standout occasion on the racing calendar.
World Sports Betting Cape Town MET (Gr1): 25 January 2025
The World Sports Betting Cape Town MET is an iconic event standing as a cornerstone of the Cape Town social calendar and the pinnacle of South African horseracing. This much-anticipated raceday seamlessly combines high fashion, art, and top-notch horseracing. The recently revealed 2025 theme, “Couture Unleashed,” is set to make this year’s event the ultimate social occasion, attracting both fashion-lovers and racing enthusiasts. With tickets and hospitality packages now available on Quicket, this is a must-attend experience.
Seafood & Jazz Festival, featuring the Cape Derby (Gr1): 22 February 2025
Savour the perfect combination of jazz tunes and delectable seafood at the Seafood & Jazz Festival, featuring the Gr1 Cape Derby, a classic steeped in history. The day is all about relaxation andindulgence, offering guests the chance to enjoy world-class races while delighting in gourmet seafood and the soothing sounds of live jazz. With free entry, it’s a fantastic opportunity for music and food lovers to unwind and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of the racing season.
Cape Racing Sales Day, featuring the CRS Big Cap: 16 March 2025
The sun will set on the summer season with The Cape Racing Sales Day, featuring the R5 million Cape Racing Sales Big Cap. With free entry, everyone can join the fun and excitement, this event promises a thrilling close, making it a fitting finale to a memorable racing series. The Cape Racing Summer Festival of Racing offers something for everyone, with each event day packed with excitement beyond thrilling horseracing.
Guests can enjoy vibrant summer concerts, delicious food, interactive kids’ activities, and high-end fashion shows. Whether you’re dining al fresco or exploring the summer market, there’s a lively atmosphere to suit every taste. While children are welcome at most events, the L’Ormarins King’s Plate and World Sports Betting Cape Town MET are strictly No-U18. Get your tickets on Quicket for the ultimate summer racing and lifestyle series, a season filled with style, entertainment, and world-class horseracing!
Also see: A day in the life of a horse racing enthusiast at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth Racecourse
