We know having fun can be pricey - but you can still have an amazing birthday in Cape Town for free. Gratis. No strings attached. Here are our favourite free birthday specials at the V&A Waterfront - a way for you or your child to enjoy a whole day out without spending anything.

Two Oceans Aquarium

Whatever the weather on your birthday, a free ticket to the Two Oceans Aquarium's world of underwater wonder awaits! Simply show us your ID at the ticket office and you get in for free - simple as that!

If you can't make it to the Aquarium on your birthday, don't fear, you can claim your free ticket for up to six days after your birthday. Young or old, this birthday special is open to all South Africans. No strings attached! Full details here.

City Sightseeing Bus

If you're reading this, you're likely a Cape Town local, but how many of us have actually done the "touristy" thing of taking a tour of the Mother City? Don't let kids miss out - after their free Aquarium visit, children under 15 can literally step out of the Aquarium and onto a bright red City Sightseeing bus to enjoy a free tour of their city.

Not only can your child enjoy a free bus tour - but they can take two friends with them for free! How do you take advantage of this amazing deal? Local kids simply need to join the Cape Town Kids' Club, at least two weeks before their birthday, to receive their free tickets. Not only that, but they will get to take part in some of the fun kids' activities that take place during the City Sightseeing tour. Full details here.

Galileo Open Air Cinema

You've enjoyed your morning at the Aquarium, and day touring Cape Town with City Sightseeing - now it's time for something a bit more relaxed. Make a turn at The Galileo Open Air Cinema at the V&A Waterfront's new Battery Park, or one of their other fresh air locations, and be treated to a free movie on your birthday! They have a varied schedule, so be sure to check it out before planning your birthday adventure.

How do you get in for free? Simply bring your ID to the entrance of any Galileo Cinema playing a movie on your birthday and you’ll receive free entry and the use of a backrest and blanket! Please note that the rest of your entourage must pre-book tickets to avoid disappointment, as if a show is sold out, no sales will be allowed at the door. Please note this birthday special is not valid for Halloween, Christmas, Valentine’s or Easter. Full details here.

The Cape Wheel

Last, but certainly not least, end the perfect free birthday with a peaceful ride on the Cape Wheel. By simply signing up for the Cape Wheel's Birthday Club, you will receive a free ticket to the best view in the V&A Waterfront.

If you want to remember the end of the perfect birthday forever - the Cape Wheel has another bonus for you: Happy Snappy will give you a free A3 birthday photo with your regular photo purchase. You've been underwater, toured the city and enjoyed the best of Hollywood, now it's time to take it all in from 40m above the ground. Ts & Cs here.

Know any others? Share your FREE V&A Waterfront birthday special with us and we'll add it to the list!