The V&A Waterfront’s Watershed joins Design Week South Africa with free art walks, talks, and creative workshops across Cape Town this October.
The V&A Waterfront’s Watershed has joined forces with Design Week South Africa for a two-city celebration of creativity, across Johannesburg and Cape Town.
After a busy few days in Joburg, the spotlight now shifts to Cape Town, where the city will host talks, tours, and workshops from 23–26 October.
For over ten years, the Watershed has been the heart of local design at the Waterfront. It’s where over 300 small creative businesses come together, from legacy makers to a new wave of designers and brands. Visitors can explore local art, ceramics, jewellery, and clothing, or grab a bite with friends between browsing stalls.
This month, the Watershed continues its mission to grow South Africa’s creative economy through partnerships that celebrate local talent and innovation. Together with Design Week South Africa, it’s shining a light on the makers, dreamers, and design innovators who shape Cape Town’s creative story.
Here’s how to join in:
Design Week South Africa x V&A Waterfront Guide (23–26 Oct)
Accessible Art Walk
📍 Departing from the Watershed
🕐 23–26 October | 11:00
Led by Winston Fani, Africa’s first blind tour guide, this walk takes you through nine curated art installations across the Waterfront. Experience public art through sound, touch, and storytelling.
🧭 One walk per day | Max 40 people | Free RSVP
Saturday & Sunday links via linktr.ee/vandawatershed
Secret Snapshots Photography Walk
📍 23 October | 16:00–20:00 (Battery Park)
📍 25 October | 06:00–09:00 (Makers Landing)
Join Urban Aperture Walks for a guided photo walk exploring hidden corners of the Waterfront. Discover off-the-map spots and capture the neighbourhood from new angles.
📸 Limited to 100 people per walk | Free RSVP
Craft & Conversation Corner
📍 Watershed Mezzanine Level
🗓 25 October | 12:00–14:00
The 8th edition of this cosy crochet meet-up invites crafters to bring their own wool and hook or grab one on-site for R30. Expect relaxed conversation, shared learning, and community vibes.
🧶 Only 50 spots | RSVP here
Panel Talk: The Business of Design – Building Rad Brands
📍 Workshop17, V&A Waterfront
🗓 24 October | 17:00
Hosted by Youth Capital and Harambee, this panel features Emma Strydom, the Not Sad Food Club duo, Johannes Le Roux (Dope Drink), Nicole Norman (Hype Social), and others. Expect open conversation on turning creative ideas into sustainable ventures.
Panel Talk: Designing with Community in Mind
📍 Workshop17, Watershed
🗓 24 October | 18:00–21:00
Hosted by Fuata Moya and the V&A Watershed, moderated by Ashanti Kunene.
Featuring Petit Noir, Zizipho Poswa, Ras Silas Motse, Robyn Agulhas, and Sindile Mavundla.
They’ll unpack collaboration, creative identity, and community-driven design.
Zeitz MOCAA Free Tours
📍 Zeitz MOCAA
🗓 23+24 October | 12:30
Free daily tours with limited spots available. Book on arrival at the museum.
👉 More Info here
Maker-Led Experiences at the Watershed
- Fuata Moyo: Mapendo Project Launch
- Helon Melon Design Activation
- Eight new brand store openings
- And more creative showcases throughout the week
Don’t want to miss out? We’ve got you. Keep up with all events and RSVP links here.
