Cape Town truly comes alive during the festive season-from beach days to carols under the stars. I first wrote this roundup a while ago, but since so many of these experiences remain timeless, I’ve updated it with current details for anyone spending Christmas in Cape Town this year.

I have rounded up some fun activities you might want to do if you are in Cape Town around Christmas time. Given that the weather around this time of year is great the obvious beach trip is included along with a few other lesser-known activities.

Go to the Ballet

Each year, the Cape Town Ballet Company delights audiences with a special Christmas-themed ballet, offering a perfect way to embrace the holiday spirit. The performances are either , the enchanting performance of The Nutcracker or a magical rendition of A Christmas Carol. This seasonal production brings classic tales to life with stunning choreography, beautiful costumes, and a festive atmosphere. Attending this annual ballet is a wonderful tradition . This year Caoe Town City Ballet will be perfoming something different Alice in Wonderland , choreographed by internationally acclaimed Gerard Charles. Be sure to book your tickets early, as these performances are often very popular! You can book tickets via Webtickets.

Go watch a movie outdoors

Kirstenbosch and the V& A Waterfront along with other places host the Galileo Theatre which runs during summer in Cape Town. There are often nostalgic films screened amongst beautiful outdoor settings. One year Elf was played and it is a lovely thing to do with loved ones. Just remember to check the weather and take warm blankets and jackets. The weather in Cape Town can be fickle at times.

Go to the Beach

Christmas coincides with summer in Cape Town, with the official start of summer on December 22nd-my birthday! Families often enjoy Christmas lunch and then head to the beach. While beaches can get crowded, it’s a perfect spot for a festive celebration.

Braai

In South Africa, a barbecue is called a braai. It’s a fantastic way to celebrate Christmas with family and friends, featuring meats, chicken, sausages, and fish roasted over an open fire. Traditional Christmas meals are sometimes set aside for this fun and communal outdoor gathering. Yiou can visit a place on this list although I don’t go to restrurants for a braai: https://www.capetown.travel/shisanyama-cape-town/ I do however highly recomend Pitso’s Kitchen they closed down the Waterfroont brach but operate in Parklands and at the Neighbourhood Good market in Salt river.

 

Listen to Christmas Carols

Every year, Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens hosts a magical Carols by Candlelight event that’s a highlight of the festive season. It’s a wonderful opportunity to enjoy live Christmas music in the stunning surroundings of the gardens. Be sure to check Webtickets for ticket information. This year it will run from the 18th till the 21st December 2025. Additionally, the V&A Waterfront often features free carol events. They will be hosting the Salvation Army Choir this year on the 12th of December at the Amiptheatre. Ratanga Park inn Century City aso hosts a free Carols by Candelight event. Santa arrives at 6pm and the carols start at 7:30 pm. The best part is that you can pack your own picnic basket to enjoy on the lawn. There will also be foodstalls but no alchol is permitted. It will take place on the 7th of December 2025. Arrive early to get a good spot. And you can also donate to their fundraiser for kids, babies and young moms read more here:https://centurycity.co.za/events/carols-in-the-park-685/ All of these venues offer delightful ways to celebrate Christmas with beautiful music and beautiful settings.

Shop at Christmas Markets

Cape Town is brimming with festive pop-up and Christmas markets, offering a wide range of unique finds. I recently scored a great second-hand shirt at a Vintage pop-up, and my sister found a beautiful Christmas tree decoration crafted by the NGO Souper Troopers. These markets not only provide wonderful holiday gifts but also support local and charitable causes, adding a meaningful touch to your holiday shopping.

Check out Festive lights

If you walk down Adderly street Adorning the Adderley Street in Cape Town, the festive lights sparkle brilliantly against the backdrop ofTable Mountain. Since the installation of the first electrical light in October 1988, this street has evolved into one of South Africa’s most famous destinations for holiday lights.

Visit the magical Christmas lights display at 3 Lady Grey Street, Fish Hoek, where Matthew Haines and his family have been delighting visitors for six years. This year’s setup features a dazzling 230,000 lights and a charming hand-built PVC canopy, which Matthew rebuilt after a windstorm. Originally from California, Matthew’s love for vibrant Christmas lights is evident in his impressive display, which runs from 8pm to 10pm on weekdays and until 11pm on weekends, with a special New Year’s Eve finale. Donations this year will help cover electricity costs, and the family also hosted their first Christmas mini-market. Visitors are asked to be respectful of neighbors, follow display guidelines, and enjoy the festive spectacle responsibly.

For a festive light display in Bothasig, check out Klepper Street and Cornelis Street, which boast the most lights. You’ll also find some charming displays scattered around other blocks, including Harmans Road, Stevens Street, and even the Bothasig Police Station on Steenhoven Road. Don’t miss the house with laser lights at the upper end of Vryburger and a few standout displays on Adam Tas Road. If you know of any other great spots, feel free to share them in the comments!

Donate and volunteer

This time of year there is many organisations such as Santa’s shoe box which seek to help those less fortunate. You can also support Souper troupers like my sister did. No matter where you are in the world I’m sure you will be able to find an organization to help out.

Santa’s Workshop

If you have children, Santa’s Workshop at the V&A Waterfront is a magical place with activities for kids and photo opportunities with Santa. The exact dates aren’t u yet but I will post as son as I know when the workshop will be running.

 

Switching on the Festive lights

On the first Sunday of December each year, Cape Town kicks off the festive season with a spectacular event: the switching on of the city’s Christmas lights. It will be held on the 30th of November this year .This celebration features a large, free concert that showcases performances by some of South Africa’s biggest artists. The concert sets the stage for the grand moment when the Christmas lights are officially illuminated, marking the start of the holiday season with dazzling displays. It’s a fantastic event full of energy and joy, making it a must-attend for anyone looking to experience the festive spirit in Cape Town.

Attend a Kirstenbosch Summer Sunset Concert

Nothing signals the start of the Cape Town holiday season quite like the Kirstenbosch Summer Sunset Concert Series. The Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens provides the perfect setting for these concerts, offering a beautiful and relaxed atmosphere to enjoy with friends and family. With a fantastic lineup of performances every year, catching one of these concerts is definitely a highlight of the festive season in Cape Town. Fund the lineup fot this season here:https://www.webtickets.co.za/v2/Client.aspx?clientcode=kirstenbosch

Visit the V&A Waterfront

Visit the V&A Waterfront during the Christmas season to experience its spectacular holiday displays that celebrate African culture. The mall is adorned with beautiful Christmas decorations, and you’ll often find special displays outside as well. Plus, there are various events to enjoy, including some free activities.

Check out Ekrismis

Check out Ekrismis—there are two branches, but I highly recommend visiting the pop-up shop inside Canal Walk. The display outside the shop is simply beautiful, and they offer unique Christmas ornaments. Since my mom adores Christmas decorations, I picked up a lovely bauble for her from there.

• Email:i nfo@ekrismis.co.za
• Website: ekrismis.co.za

Eat and be merry

There are many places which host Christmas lunches for those of you who don’t feel like cooking. I tend to cook a big lunch with my mom we start on Christmas Eve already. Whatever you eat or do just remember to enjoy it. Christmas only comes once a year and should be fun and memorable.

Wishing everyone a happy festive season, whether you’re celebrating or not. I’d love to hear your thoughts and comments on my blog!

Happy festive season!