Easter is marathon time in Cape Town when the Two Oceans Marathon takes place and the city comes to a standstill. Runners from all over the world attend the Two Oceans Marathon for two reasons; because it’s possibly the most scenic marathon route in the world and it’s a festive but challenging run.  A number of events are planned over 2 days that begin on the first day with trial runs of 12km and 24km distances over a course routed along the southern slopes of Table Mountain. Participants are required to carry their own water and energy food. Various fun runs are arranged on the same day and at different venues. A short 5km International Friendship Run is hosted for international visitors to experience Cape Town before taking part in the main race.

The two main races are run on the second day, namely a 56km ultra-marathon and a 21km half-marathon. The 56km route begins at Newlands and passes some of the most attractive spots in Cape Town, including Chapman's Peak Drive, Hout Bay and Constantia Nek, before ending at the University of Cape Town. The 21km half-marathon begins and ends at the same points but starts 30 minutes earlier than the ultra-marathon run.

The Two Oceans Marathon was first run in 1970 when only a handful of runners participated (and probably had to dodge traffic along the route) and the race has grown to a point where over 25000 runners now participate across all of the events.

Cape Town’s hotels are filled to capacity as the runners arrive and on the morning of the main event, roads are blocked off to ensure a smooth race for everyone, from runners to marshals and supporters.

Non-participants can join in the festivities by finding a scenic spot, laying out a blanket and picnic basket, and spurring the runners on.