April 2025
The popular First Thursdays initiative is expanding to Stellenbosch, with the inaugural edition
taking place on Thursday 1 May 2025. The public is invited to get out and about to explore
the historic centre of South Africa’s second oldest town after hours.
The concept of First Thursdays is centred around a walkable programme of cultural
attractions, allowing the public to hop between art exhibitions, retail stores and other
locations after hours.
What to look forward to
The programme for 1 May is concentrated around Church Street, and includes over 15
participating art spaces, design stores, and wine bars within a few blocks. Participating art
spaces include Oude Leeskamer, SMAC Gallery, GUS, Art by Mies, Vincent Da Silva Gallery,
Art on Church Gallery, and Art & Wine Lounge.
Design stores to visit include the likes of SAD, Made In Africa, Me&B, Stellenbosch Books and
Courage, and participating bars and restaurants include Bartinney Wine & Champagne Bar,
Wijnhuis, and De Warenmarkt.
How to attend
First Thursdays is free to attend, with no tickets required. It is not a standalone event, but
rather a coordinated programme of locations that are open after hours. Attendees can start
at any of the participating locations, and walk to others from there. Participating galleries
and shops will be open from 5pm to 8pm, with bars and restaurants open later.
The programme is published on the First Thursdays website, with a digital map to be shared
on the First Thursdays Instagram and WhatsApp channels.
About First Thursdays
First Thursdays was established in Cape Town in 2012 by Gareth Pearson and Michael
Tymbios, and expanded to Johannesburg in 2015. The initiative is about bringing people
together in urban spaces, creating a platform for art and entrepreneurship, and giving the
public an opportunity to share unique, memorable, uplifting experiences.
The First Thursdays concept, trademark and media platform is owned and coordinated by
First Thursdays South Africa.
