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This event will not take place in 2025.

MCQP Cape Town 2025

The MCQP (Mother City Queer Project) party takes place every December in Cape Town. It is the highlight of the gay Summer season.

  • Event Dates

    From: Awaiting dates
    To: Awaiting dates

  • Key Highlights

    • Hot GoGos
    • The Best DJs
    • 10,000 people
    • Theme Party
    • Circuit Party
    • Drag Variety Show

The Mother City Queer Project 2025

The MCQP party takes place in December in Cape Town. Each year the theme is different with elaborate costumes, amazing light and sound, guest DJs and outrageous drag acts.

  • Visiting Cape Town for Christmas? Stay close to the bars in DeWaterkant at The Old Foundry Hotel, featuring stylish designer rooms and superb breakfasts in an excellent location.

The Party

  • Next Edition: Awaiting dates and theme – Typically second weekend in December.
  • The Mother City Queer Project (or MCQP for short), began in 1994 and has become a highlight on the Cape Town gay calendar.
  • The party has grown into South Africa’s biggest dress-to-theme party attended by all sorts of fun-loving creative people, from all over the world.
  • A combination of music festival, circuit party, burlesque cabaret, drag variety show, circus, and Viennese ball, the event attracts more than 10,000 visitors.
  • Each year the party has a different theme with guest DJs, amazing decor and over the top costumes. Previous themes have included ‘Bollywood,’ ‘The Love Ball,’ ‘Drag Race,’ and many more.
  • Upgrade your Cape Town experience at The Silo Hotel, rated “Exceptional” by guests featuring designer rooms, high-end amenities, stunning views and superb service.

The Venue

  • 2025 Venue to be confirmed.
  • Gardens Commercial High School, Cape Town – Located 12 minutes from De Waterkant.
  • Expect to see the venue transformed into an otherworldly escape with world class entertainment serving nothing but vibes to keep the dance floors packed.
  • Discover the best places to party, stay and play with our Gay Cape Town Guide.

Gay Cape Town

  • De Waterkant – Often dubbed Cape Town's ‘Pink District', De Waterkant is a lively and vibrant area with a plethora of LGBTQ+-friendly bars, restaurants, and shops. Cobbled streets, colorful houses, and a European-esque vibe set the scene.
  • Green Point: Just a stone's throw away from De Waterkant, Green Point offers a mix of nightlife, beautiful parks, and a chill atmosphere.

Recommended Hotels in Cape Town

The following hotels are popular with our visitors to Cape Town and are close to the city's gay bars and top attractions. They are also gay-friendly.

Icon Luxury Apartments,    The Westin Cape Town,   DysArt Boutique Hotel   The Cape Royale

Gay Map of Cape Town

Most of the gay bars are located in the De Waterkant area, surrounded by some lovely restaurants and only a short walk to the shopping streets, we have chosen some hotels and apartment that keep you in the hard of all the action.

Address: Quay, 6 W Quay Rd, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, Cape Town

  • One of Cape Town’s most iconic luxury hotels at the V&A Waterfront.
  • Striking views across Table Mountain and the harbour.
  • World-class service with a polished, refined feel throughout.
  • Elegant guest rooms designed for comfort and space.
  • A landmark address known for style, scale, and setting.
  • Website

Address: Convention Square, Lower Long St, Cape Town City Centre

  • Five-star luxury hotel in Cape Town’s CBD near the V&A Waterfront.
  • Views of Table Mountain, the city, & harbour from rooms & lounges.
  • Spacious modern rooms with premium amenities and comfort.
  • Executive Club Lounge for elevated dining and panoramic outlooks.
  • Extensive spa, pools, and dining for a refined stay.
  • Website

Address: 40 Chiappini St, De Waterkant, Cape Town, 8001

  • Luxury hotel and serviced suite property in De Waterkant.
  • Spacious rooms with kitchens and living areas.
  • Rooftop dining with panoramic city and mountain views.
  • Friendly staff and strong guest comfort reviews.
  • Walking distance to waterfront, restaurants, and culture.
  • Website

Address: Moorings 5 & Portswood Ridge, 5 Portswood Rd

  • Boutique hotel and spa on the V&A Waterfront with refined style.
  • Rooms and suites with harbour or city outlooks.
  • Full spa and pool deck for relaxation after sightseeing.
  • Intimate lounge and dining spaces with quality service.
  • Walkable access to waterfront restaurants and attractions.
  • Website

Address: 10 Hospital Street Cape Town, 8001, South Africa

  • Serviced apartments at the V&A Waterfront with harbour views.
  • Spacious units with full kitchens and living areas.
  • Private balconies create a relaxed home-like feel.
  • Walking distance to shops, dining, and waterfront activity.
  • Comfortable base for both short and extended stays.
  • Website

Address: 32 Prestwich StreetCape Town, 8001, South Africa

  • Luxury serviced suites with modern design and spacious layouts.
  • Full kitchens and living areas make longer stays comfortable.
  • Views over Table Mountain or city streets from large windows.
  • Central Long Street location near cafés, bars, and attractions.
  • Attentive service and quality amenities throughout.
  • Website

Address: 23 Jarvis StreetGreen Point, Cape Town, 8051

  • Stylish self-catering apartments in De Waterkant.
  • Well-equipped units with kitchens and living areas.
  • Rooftop terrace and relaxed communal spaces.
  • Excellent location close to restaurants, bars, and waterfront.
  • Friendly service and comfortable base for exploring Cape Town.
  • Website

Address: 137 Waterkant StreetCape Town, 8001,South Africa

  • Boutique guesthouse and café in De Waterkant village
  • Artisan coffee, brunch, lunch and dinner with seasonal  influences.
  • Intimate rooms with character and thoughtful touches.
  • Rooftop terrace and shaded outdoor seating add relaxed charm.
  • Walking access to café culture, bars and waterfront attractions.
  • Website

Address: Victoria Rd, Clifton, Cape Town, 8005, South Africa

  • Luxury beachfront villa near Clifton’s iconic beaches & Atlantic views.
  • Spacious, modern interiors with panoramic ocean outlooks.
  • Private terraces perfect for relaxing mornings and evenings.
  • Quiet neighbourhood yet close to dining and seaside activity.
  • Upscale choice for beach-side stays in Cape Town.
  • Website

Address: Fulham Rd, Camps Bay, Cape Town, 8005, South Africa

  • Luxury villa with sweeping ocean and mountain views.
  • Extensive indoor and outdoor living spaces for groups.
  • Heated pool, jacuzzi, and spa-style amenities.
  • Large suites with premium finishes and private terraces.
  • Ideal base near Camps Bay and Clifton beaches.
  • Website

Address: 84 Camps Bay Dr, Camps Bay, Cape Town, 8040

  • Luxury villa in Camps Bay with ocean & mountain views.
  • Six spacious bedrooms and living areas ideal for groups.
  • Private pool and outdoor terrace for relaxing and socialising.
  • Walkable to Camps Bay Beach, dining and shops.
  • Comfortable, well-equipped base for Cape Town getaways.
  • Website

Address: 23 Geneva Dr, Camps Bay, Cape Town, 8040, South Africa

  • Stylish holiday villa in Camps Bay with pool and terrace.
  • Bright, modern interiors with open living spaces.
  • Views of mountain and ocean from generous windows.
  • Quiet residential setting near beach and cafés.
  • Great base for group or family stays in Cape Town.
  • Website

Address: 74 Waterkant Street,Cape Town, 8001,South Africa

  • Long-established gay bar and cafe in De Waterkant.
  • Relaxed daytime drinks and meals roll into busy evenings.
  • Popular terrace with strong street energy.
  • Mixed local and international crowd.
  • Reliable social stop during Pride and major events.
  • Open: Mon 11am-11pm, Tue-Thu 9am-11pm, Fri-Sat 9am-12am,
  • Sun 9am-11pm
  • Instagram

Address: 120 Strand St, De Waterkant, Cape Town, 8001, South Africa

  • Established gay nightclub in De Waterkant with a party reputation.
  • Late-night venue built around DJs, dancing, and upbeat club sounds.
  • Crowd mixes locals, tourists, and Pride-week visitors.
  • Atmosphere stays busy and energetic through peak weekend hours.
  • Reliable choice for dancing after midnight in Cape Town.
  • Open: Fri 9pm-4am, Sat 9pm-4am
  • Facebook

Address: 55 Prestwich St, De Waterkant, Cape Town, 8001, South Africa

  • Café and bar with strong LGBTQ+ friendly energy in De Waterkant.
  • Blends daytime brunch and coffee with lively evening drinks.
  • Food and drinks suit casual catch-ups or social meet-ups.
  • Inviting interior and terrace for gatherings.
  • Good stop for brunch, cocktails, or casual nights out.
  • Open: Mon-Fri 7am-11pm, Sat 8am-11pm, Sun 9am-4pm
  • Instagram

Address: 46 Canterbury St, District Six, Cape Town, 7925, South Africa

  • Established gay bar and social club close to Cape Town’s city centre.
  • Strong focus on drag shows, DJs, and themed party nights.
  • Social layout that balances dancing, drinks, and conversation.
  • Crowd blends locals, regulars, and international visitors.
  • Reliable nightlife option during weekends and Pride periods.
  • Open: Thu 8pm-4am, Fri 8pm-4am, Sat 8pm-4am, Sun 8pm-4am
  • Facebook

Address: 12 Cobern St, De Waterkant, Cape Town, 8001, South Africa

  • Energetic gay bar and nightclub in De Waterkant.
  • Strong music focus with DJs and dance floor.
  • Crowds gather nightly to drink and mingle.
  • Themed nights and social vibe draw locals and visitors.
  • A lively choice for late-evening nightlife in Cape Town.
  • Open: Mon-Sun 6pm-2am
  • Instagram

Address: 299 Lower Main Rd, Observatory, Cape Town, 7925, South Africa

  • Exclusive gay cruising bar and sauna for men in Cape Town.
  • Bar, steam room, private lounges and cruising maze available.
  • Welcoming staff and respectful atmosphere.
  • Blends social drinks with cruising activities.
  • Popular choice for gay men seeking a fun, relaxed venue.
  • Open: Sun–Thu 12pm-12am, Fri-Sat 12pm-2am
  • Website

Address: 123 Lower Main Rd, Observatory, Cape Town, 7925

  • Gay and lesbian bar in Observatory with an inclusive crowd.
  • Cocktails, DJs, drag, burlesque, and live shows.
  • Social lounge feel that builds energy as the night goes on.
  • Popular with locals and visiting LGBTQ+ travellers.
  • Strong events calendar keeps nights varied and busy.
  • Open: Mon-Thu 1pm-12am, Fri-Sat 1pm-2am, Sun 1pm-10pm
  • Instagram

Recommended Apartments and villas in Cape Town

Geneva Drive Villa
7 Bedrooms

Geneva Drive Villa Cape Town
  • Air conditioned accommodation
  • 7 bedrooms, 6 bathrooms
  • Living room, a dining area
  • An outdoor swimming pool.
  • Free WiFi & free private parking

Merridew Villa
6 Bedrooms

  • Stylish 6-bedroom villa,
  • Six Bedroom (5 ensuite)
  • Balcony with ocean views
  • A fully equipped kitchen
  • An outdoor pool.

Hollywood Mansion
6 Bedrooms

Hollywood Mansion Cape Town
  • Secure and luxurious mansion
  • A maid and butler service
  • Heated pool, gym, home cinema
  • 6 bedrooms
  • 3 different lounges

Clifton Private Beach
3 Bedrooms

Clifton Private Beach Cape Town
  • Located on Clifton Beach
  • Outdoor swimming pool
  • Bar and full kitchen
  • 3 bedrooms, and 3 bathrooms
  • Garden with barbecue facilities

Video Of MCQP Cape Town

Highlights of the party!

The Glenn Hotel Cape Town

Recommended Hotels in Cape Town By Booking

Book with confidence. Get the best Prices from our partner Booking
We have chosen hotels in Cape Town that keep you close to all the shops,restaurants & bars

The Table Bay
5 Star, Luxury

The Table Bay Hotel
Booking.com
  • 5-Star, V&A Waterfront Location, Harbor Views
  • Close to the gay district
  • Minibar, flat-screen satellite TV
  • Situated at V&A Waterfront, offers luxurious rooms with beautiful harbor and mountain views

The Westin
5 Star, Stylish

Booking.com
  • 5-Star, Deluxe Bedding, Panoramic City Views
  • Close to the gay district
  • Floor-to-ceiling windows, free Wi-Fi
  • Airy rooms with city views, features a gym with city views and a sun-drenched outdoor pool

The Capital Mirage
5 Star, Readers Choice

The Capital Mirage Hotel
Booking.com
  • 5-Star, Rooftop Bar, Between City Centre and De Waterkant
  • A short walk to the gay bars
  • Flat-screen TV, kitchen facilities
  • Offers spacious suites and apartments with modern amenities, ideal for convenience and luxury

Dock House Boutique
5 Star, Modern Classic

Booking.com
  • 5-Star, Opposite Timeball Tower, Waterfront Views
  • Close to the gay district
  • Classic décor, balcony
  • Located near V&A Waterfront, provides classic, spacious rooms with stunning waterfront views

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