Our KIN network takes us on a trip to their home cities. This time we head into the night with musician Keenan Oakes in Cape Town…
Musician Keenan works at two bars in the heart of the City Bowl in Cape Town, catering to the gin aficionados. He lets us in on what happens in his city after dark.
“The energy in Cape Town changes with the seasons.
“Summer is relentless and beautiful; the city buzzes around the clock. Winters are still lively, but there’s a definite change from the wild summer nights.
And from day to night, there’s also a definite shift…
The night is full with feelings of excitement after the working day, and the notion that anything could happen.”
The Gin Bar is a great place for dates.
“The bar I work in is a beautiful place, so it’s often used as a date destination. It’s at the back of a chocolate shop, so it’s not just about drinking – couples often come to eat chocolate and drink coffee instead of getting drunk like they used to.”
People are starting to come together over First Thursday.
“An event that takes place (yep, you guessed it) on the first Thursday of every month sees all the art galleries across the city open for the night. People move from venue to venue taking in the art, drinking and swapping stories and opinions with strangers. The same founders started Museum Night, a similar concept that happens twice a year. It’s a chance to celebrate the amazing artists we have in Cape Town, both established and emerging.”
Romantic vibes at The Gin Bar and @pumasouthafrica DJ set for a ‘First Thursday’ event
It’s true that the party scene is changing.
“I’ve definitely noticed a lot of young people going out and choosing not to drink alcohol, but I’d still say that drinking culture is alive and well in Cape Town – for the moment.”
Cape Town is like one big house party.
“Everyone knows everyone. The nightlife has a sense of familiarity – everyone is welcome. This is particularly meaningful recently, with the scene opening up and becoming more inclusive of the LGBTQ+ community and different racial groups. There’s a newfound sense of fluidity.”
We’re seeing a growing number of safe space parties
“…especially within the queer community. As a creative, multicultural and unique city, this is a welcoming – and necessary – addition. Conversations around feminism, call-out culture and liberalism are happening all around the world, and Cape Town is actively taking part. Given our history, and the growing popularity of the city, how could we not?”