The City of Cape Town has observed the official opening of the Bo-Kaap Market on Saturday, February 14 and Sunday, February 15, 2026. The market has been trading since December 2025, and this weekend it was formally recognised as a permanent public trading space that supports local entrepreneurs and reflects the unique heritage of the Bo-Kaap.
Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis paid a visit to the market on Saturday, February 14, with Member of the Mayoral Committee for Economic Growth and Tourism – Alderman James Vos.
Lewis stated that it was great fun visiting the bustling Bo-Kaap Market on Saturday as Capetonians and tourists came out to enjoy this iconic part of the city. They are pleased for the traders, who are benefitting from upgraded infrastructure. The City of Cape Town supports make this market a success.
Also, informal trading is a key economic sector for the city, which they are backing with a R270 million investment in upgrades for trading spaces across the metro over the current three-year budget to deliver a major boost for traders.
Considering this, Alderman James Vos said that the development of quality public trading infrastructure across the city remains a key priority. He mentioned that investing in public trading infrastructure is about creating business-friendly spaces that give traders dignity and customers a welcoming experience.
Markets like the Bo-Kaap Market add real value to communities. They support livelihoods, strengthen local businesses, and ensure that public trading contributes positively to the character and economy of an area. They will continue rolling out these improvements at key locations in Cape Town to build confidence and support sustainable local enterprise.
Member of the Mayoral Committee for Community Services and Health and also the Councillor for Ward-77 – Francine Higham exclaimed that What a special occasion it is, celebrating the official opening of the Bo-Kaap Market, a space shaped by the community, for the community.
According to Higham, it is more than just a market, this is a place of opportunity where local entrepreneurs can grow their businesses, residents can support local, and visitors can experience the flavours, creativity and culture that make Bo-Kaap so special. Thank you to everyone who helped in bringing this vision to life, including residents, traders, the civic association and City officials.
She stated that she is so proud of what they have achieved together and encouraged residents to visit, support local, and help this market thrive.
The Bo-Kaap Market has provided a platform for local food traders, creatives and small businesses to trade in a well-managed, accessible space while sharing the culture and traditions that make the area so distinctive.
As per the sources, this market included traders such as Nafeesah Dante of Bo-Kaap’s Finest, known for her Cape Malay inspired dishes, and Ammarah Lakay of Bo-Kaap’s Roots: Painted Rainbows, whose locally made products celebrate the colour and resilience of the Bo-Kaap community. They are joined by a range of long-standing and emerging traders offering food, fresh produce, clothing, accessories, plants, and local memorabilia.
Following the opening weekend, the Bo-Kaap Market will continue as a regular weekend market, strengthening opportunities for local traders and providing a consistent space for community connection and economic participation.