GAME DAY READY FOR SPRINGBOKS vs BARBARIANS
When the Springboks come to town for a game, it’s not just another fixture on the rugby calendar — it’s an all-day celebration in one of the world’s most vibrant cities.
The back-to-back Rugby World Cup champions will face Barbarian FC at DHL Stadium on 28 June 2025, in what will be the British-based invitational club’s first-ever tour of South Africa.
The two teams will contest the Qatar Airways Cup, currently held by South Africa.
The Barbarians will descend on Cape Town with a collection of the world’s best rugby players, including New Zealand’s Sam Cane and Shannon Frizell, and the Ireland trio of Peter O’Mahony, Conor Murray and Cian Healy, among others.
The Springboks will challenge with a similarly strong team featuring World Cup winners, URC champions and newly capped Boks.
Game day is an opportunity for die-hard rugby fans, occasional supporters, families and friend groups to not only enjoy the match but turn the event into a full-blown Cape Town experience.
Start your day with a taste of Cape Town
Kick things off by exploring the vibrant scene around the stadium, starting with a stroll through Green Point Urban Park, a lush, safe and spacious area perfect for families.
Equipped with kids’ playgrounds, indigenous garden walks and picnic spots, the Urban Park is the perfect place to unwind before the game.
Just down the road from the DHL Stadium, the V&A Waterfront provides a variety of activities to do while you wait for the game to start.
The Two Oceans Aquarium is a favourite for all family members to explore the underwater world of sharks, penguins, and interactive touch pools for kids.
Africa’s most visited tourist attraction is also bustling with artisanal markets, lively food stalls, chic cafés, and acclaimed restaurants, including the renowned Time Out Market, providing the ideal pre-game meal.
There’s no shortage of flavour close to the stadium precinct.
Places are abundant for your brunch, coffee, gourmet lunch or street food needs before the stadium gates open.
On matchdays, Green Point Main Road is buzzing with game-day energy and has a selection of family-friendly burger joints, delis, cafes and local boutiques.
Smooth ride to the stadium
Parking in the vicinity of the stadium is minimal. Spectators are encouraged to use the park and ride option, which includes a free MyCiTi shuttle.
The shuttle service operates on game day from Century City, Civic Centre and the CTICC from 11:30.
Civic Centre: For those taking a shuttle from the Civic Centre MyCiTi station, free parking will be available at the Civic Centre from 11:30. The parking spaces are available first-come, first-served basis. Entry is via Hertzog Boulevard (incoming) and Civic Road.
CTICC: Paid parking is also available at the CTICC. From here, fans can take a bus from the bus stop in front of the CTICC on Walter Sisulu Avenue.
Century City (Steelbridge E-Parking): Limited free parking bays for ticket holders on a first-come, first-served basis. Access via Century Boulevard. The area will be monitored by security; however, parking is at the owner’s risk.
CBD On-Street Parking: Free from 13:00 on a Saturday
Paid parking is also available at the Parkalot on Jack Craig Street and at the Harbour Arch on Harbour Arch Boulevard. From here, spectators can take a free MyCiTi bus from the Civic Centre
The last bus post-game will depart the stadium and Green Point Precinct at 22:15.
Feel the gees inside the stadium
Game day at DHL Stadium is an electric experience like no other, with a loaded pregame programme that includes music, food and drinks, sponsor activations, giveaways and merchandise for sale.
On-field fun is not only limited to the main match, but activities include some pre-game entertainment, ranging from flash mobs, fan giveaways, colourful pyro displays and occasionally some live music entertainment.
So, soak up the experience. Wave the flag, join in the cheers, be part of the Mexican wave and make the loudest noise for a historic clash in the Mother City.
To be part of the experience, you can get tickets for the Qatar Airways Cup from Ticketmaster.
Keep the celebration going after the final whistle
When the final whistle blows, the fun doesn’t stop.
The music and good vibes continue in the stadium beer garden post-game until late in the evening. A live DJ and a stadium concourse bar keep the party going past the fulltime time.
For those who want to continue toasting an exciting day of rugby, Cape Town comes alive at night, offering everything from family-friendly dining to buzzing nightlife.
Green Point Main Road, Sea Point Main Road, the V&A Waterfront and Long Street provide a dive into the city’s vibrant bar and music scene.
