If you are fortunate enough to be in Cape Town as part of your Southern African safari at the end of 2016, you’ve made the right choice. While we can’t offer you a white Christmas, you will certainly find no shortage of ways to celebrate during this joyous season, no matter where you are in and around this iconic city.
Downtown Cape Town
Cape Town’s Christmas-themed street lights, will be lighting up the night from December 4th creating an undeniably festive vibe wherever you go. Adderley Street, the heart of the Christmas light fixtures, is steeped in culture and history, earning its name from Charles B. Adderly who vetoed a proposal to turn Cape Town into a convict colony.
Table Mountain, which can be seen in all its glory from Adderley Street, will also be getting into the spirit of things with a half-price special on cable-way trips to the top to view the sun sinking into the sea, and the switch on of the lights each evening.
The Cape Town Sushi Festival from December 14-16 is a celebration of seafood, served alongside the Cape’s finest wines and brews.
The Winelands
The Paul Cluver Summer Festival starts the proceedings early with a series of concerts running from November through to February, 2017. Roll out the blankes and enjoy a picnic in the picturesque forest amphitheater of Elgin Valley Wine Estate, while some of South Africa’s top music theatre and comedy acts do their stuff.
While you are in town, catch the Aidorn Westcott or Group Exhibition at The Gallery in Franschhoek which are on until January 2017.
Kirstenbosch
Also out of the gates early, is the Kirstenbosch summer concerts series, which runs from November to April every year. Picnics, scenic sunsets and family-friendly relaxation are the order of the early evening at these well-supported events. Each week sees a different top act performing, with classic African act Johnny Clegg taking to the stage on Old Year’s Eve.
For an unforgettable evening, Kirstenbosch Carols by Candlelight from December 15-18 is a don’t miss event, where you can sing your heart out to all your favorites, while accompanied by the Cape Town Concert Brass and Male Voice Choir.
If none of these events suit your fancy, you will find a theatre that does; with live performances most days of the week at the Fugard Theatre, the Artscape Theatre, Alexander Upstairs Theatre or Richard’s Supper Stage & Bistro right in the heart of town.
For special interests and more events, ask us for guidance about what’s on in Cape Town during your Southern African Safari.
