Downtown Cape Town is the place to be this festive season. Here’s a selection of fun events and experiences to enjoy.
Cape Town Summer Market
Now on till 20 December 2022
Don’t miss the City of Cape Town’s flagship Summer Market this year. It’s a great way to celebrate the holiday season and pick out unique Christmas gifts. The family-friendly event features over 150 stalls selling a range of crafts, foods, toys, novelties, and clothing. It also has The Chill Zone where everyone can relax under the trees, a play area for kids, a car show, dancers and the popular singing competition, Summer Star. Parking will be permitted alongside the road.
Where: Company’s Garden, 15 Queen Victoria St
When: 17h00 – 22h00
Cost: Free
Star+Crossed
Now on till 31 December 2022
This musical explores what happens when two unlikely people find each other in unusual circumstances and forge a strong bond. It was inspired by the life of South African woman, Elizabeth Klarer, and her alleged love affair with, and impregnation by, an alien.
Where: Artscape Theatre Centre, D.F. Malan St
When: Depends on booking
Cost: R200 – R250
www.artscape.co.za
Strictly Soul
27 December 2022
If you love soul music, you’ll feel at home at this party which will be dedicated to music by Brandy, Beyonce, TLC, Mary J Blige, T-Pain, and SZA. The event will be hosted at La Parada Bree Street and a dinner service will be available. Music will be provided by resident curator DJ Akio and other special guests.
Where: La Parada Bree Street, 107 Bree St
When: 19h00 – 01h30
Cost: R60
https://bit.ly/3FrrwjQ
Sizzled Summer Music & Food Fest
26 December 2022
Enjoy an outdoor music experience like no other on Boxing Day. This summer celebration will be headlined by German-born DJ Ralf GUM, one of the most respected figures in House Music, and will include other music acts and gourmet food trucks to feed your soul.
Where: Castle of Good Hope, Darling St
When: 12h00 – 00h30
Cost: R200
https://bit.ly/3hsnhMP
Luxury Sunday Lunch
Now on till 30 April 2023
Peach Tree Restaurant at Southern Sun The Cullinan offers a scrumptious lunch on the first and last Sunday of the month. The meal starts with a mouthwatering soup which is followed by a selection of salads a fish course and a selection of buffet desserts. To book, call 021 415 4000 or email stella.bar@southernsun.com.
Where: Southern Sun The Cullinan, 1 Cullinan St
When: 12h30 – 15h00
Cost: R320 per person (Children between 4 and 11 years pay half the price)
https://bit.ly/3BgNEw5
The Nutcracker
Now on till 23 December 2022
Nothing says things are back to normal like the return of The Nutcracker, an enchanting classical ballet, which has become part and parcel of the festive season in the CBD. The joyous show will be performed by the talented dancers from Cape Town City Ballet who will be accompanied by the Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra at select performances.
Where: Artscape Theatre Centre, D.F. Malan St
When: Depends on booking
Cost: R175 – R495
https://bit.ly/3yUwRh6
Buddies’ Night Out
29 December 2022
This fun event by the Station on Bree is all about friendship and having a final drink with mates before the New Year. Organisers say the idea is to “pay it forward” by inviting all the friends you would love to see, especially those you haven’t seen for ages, those you’re not talking to, those who have unfriended you, those in town for the season only and those you have a secret crush on”.
Where: The Station on Bree, 207 Bree St
When: 18h00 – 00h00
Cost: Free
https://bit.ly/3YlUfyS
Minstrel Carnival and Tweede Nuwe Jaar
31 December and 2 January 2022
Cape Town’s colourful Minstrel Carnival is back after a two-year absence due to the pandemic. It will take place on 31 December and create a cheerful atmosphere in the Cape Town CBD and surrounds. Then on 2 January, minstrel troupes will put on a stellar show for all to enjoy during the Tweede Nuwe Jaar Parade which welcomes the new year.
Where: from Rose, Wale, Adderley and Darling Sts
When: 12h00 – 23h00
Cost: Free
A Letter to Azania
25 February 2023
After many years of absence on Cape Town’s stages, award-winning singer and songwriter Thandiswa Mazwai will be in town for a memorable special performance at Artscape Theatre Centre. The show will centre around “a letter that the singer is writing to ‘Azania’ as a place of freedom” and will have her songs and those that have influenced her over the last two decades from jazz to funk, reggae and gospel music.
Where: Artscape Theatre Centre, D.F. Malan St
When: Bookings will open soon
Cost: R350 – R600
https://bit.ly/3Bgvcnj
Calling Us Home
15 to 19 January 2023
After thrilling audiences in 2018, this original African musical, written and composed by South African composer Alice Gillham, is back at Artscape Theatre Centre for one week only. Catch it before it heads overseas for an international tour. The production centres on hope, love and home and will resonate with people of all ages and nationalities.
Where: Artscape Theatre Centre, D.F. Malan St
When: Depends on booking
Cost: R190 – R390
www.callingushomemusical.com
Symphony of Love
27 January 2023
Treat yourself to a unique performance featuring Indian songstress Pratibha Singh Baghel and the Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra. The singer is described as “blessed with the ability to effortlessly sing a broad range of genres”. The concert will include classic Bollywood hits, rearranged for orchestra, as well as newer songs. Nine leading singers from India will also be part of the show.
Where: Artscape Theatre Centre, D.F. Malan St
When: Depends on booking
Cost: R150 – R1 000
https://bit.ly/3UF0L0T
Investec Cape Town Art Fair
17 to 19 February 2023
The Investec Cape Town Art Fair is celebrating “a decade of achievement” in 2023. For the 10th edition, 88 exhibitors will be on display as the fair explores the concept of time and celebrates its journey and impact over the years. As usual, local and international artists, gallerists, curators, media personalities and art enthusiasts will also be treated to curated art talks, walkabouts and Gallery Night where art aficionados gallery hop from the Cape Town Central City to Woodstock in a City Sightseeing bus.
Where: Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC), 1 Lower Long St
When: 11h00 till late
Cost: R150 – R460
https://bit.ly/3BgNEw5
36ONE Swim Series
1 January, 5 February and 18 March 2023
This unique open-water swimming is aimed at swimmers looking to experience the sea safely. With the range of events available, organisers cater for everyone from Olympic athletes to newcomers wanting an initial experience of being in the sea. As participants become more comfortable in the open water, there is an increasing variety of swims to participate in. Upcoming events include the New Year’s Day Mile Swim, the Clifton Mile Swim and the Viking Swim Challenge.
Where: Clifton 4th Beach
When: 07h00 – 11h00
Cost: R250 – R200
www.the36oneswim.co.za
The South African Jewish Museum
Ongoing
The South African Jewish Museum, which houses the Cape Town Holocaust Centre, protects and celebrates Jewish culture and heritage in the country and is a wonderful institution to visit all year round. There are interactive displays, audio-visual presentations, and fascinating artefacts to help visitors understand the rich history of the Jewish community. The venue also offers private tours for visitors. Currently, it’s showing “The Herzlia Matric Art Exhibition” aimed at highlighting artworks by matric students. The show will conclude on 3 December.
Where: South African Jewish Museum, 88 Hatfield St
When: 10h00 – 17h00 (Sunday – Thursday)
Cost: R50 (students over 12 years) – R200 (adults)
www.sajewishmuseum.org.za
Free CBD Walking Tours
Ongoing
Keen to explore the CBD without breaking the bank? Join free walking tours that take place in the inner city daily. Organisers are on a mission to make Cape Town walkable for everyone and that’s why these operate on tips only and are open to anyone. Options include a Historic City and Apartheid to Freedom Tour, Apartheid to Freedom and Bo-Kaap Tour and the Bo-Kaap and Historic City Tour. For more information, email info@freewalkingtourscapetown.co.za.
Where: Meet at the Piazza on Church Square
When: 11h00, 14h00 and 16h20
Cost: Free
https://bit.ly/3EXEsPR
Brunch Club at The Blue Room
Every Saturday
Enjoy a sumptuous and leisurely brunch to the sounds of jazz at Grub & Vine’s Blue Room on Saturdays. This is a unique experience with a fresh take on brunch classics with an option to choose from delicious à la carte dishes or the whole menu. What’s more, you can enjoy bubbles from Graham Beck all day.
Where: The Blue Room, 103 Bree St
When: 11h00 – 15h00
www.grubandvine.co.za
CHRISTMAS IN THE CBD
Copa Restaurant
25 December 2022
Pepperclub Hotel’s Copa Restaurant will be hosting a Christmas eve dinner with a delicious meal prepared to perfection. The Christmas eve dinner will include a set three-course meal and a welcome drink, and the Christmas lunch buffet will feature a three-course menu, live music and a welcome drink. To book contact, email copa@pepperclub.co.za or call 021 812 8888.
Where: Pepperclub Hotel, cnr Loop & Pepper sts
When: Depends on booking
Cost: R525 per person and R225 for kids between 2 – 12 years (Christmas eve dinner), R1 050 per person and R525 for kids between 2 – 12 years (Christmas lunch)
www.pepperclub.co.za
Grub & Vine
24 December 2022
Enjoy a festive feast at Grub & Vine comprising a six-course menu that’s paired with a selection of fine wines from the country’s most respected names and special imports from across the globe.
Where: Grub & Vine, Bree St
When: 12h00 – 15h00 (lunch), 18h00 – 21h20 (dinner)
Cost: R950 – R2 950
www.grubandvine.co.za
Taj Cape Town
24 and 25 December 2022
Indulge in a Christmas eve dinner or lunch celebration that includes a buffet-style menu with a wide variety of traditional holiday season dishes from The Mint Restaurant as well as a plated set menu with authentic Indian dishes from Bombay Brasserie. Festivities also include entertainment. What’s more, all guests receive a complimentary glass of Simonsig Kaapse Vonkel on arrival and valet parking. For enquiries, call 021 819 2000 or email restaurants.capetown@tajhotels.com.
Where: Taj Cape Town, Wale St
When: 12h00 – 15h00 (lunch), 18h30 (dinner)
Cost: R1 150 – R1 450
www.tajhotels.com
NEW YEAR’S EVE IN THE CBD
Alcazar New Year’s Eve Party
This annual event has established itself as one of the go-to New Year’s Eve parties in Cape Town. Each year, organisers draw inspiration from an iconic palace or ancient building from around the world to transform the venue and create an unforgettable experience. The event includes three stages, a great line-up of artists, bars and gourmet food trucks.
Where: Cape Town High School, 115 Hatfield St
When: Depends on booking
Cost: R367 – R3 000
www.alcazarnye.co.za
Fable
Fable is hosting a New Year’s Eve cabaret party and says “the only thing being stockpiled this year is champagne” as bottles will be popped into the new year. On the night, Moët & Chandon and Veuve Clicquot will be half priced while stocks last. To book, call 066 009 7786 or email info@fablecocktailbar.capetown.
Where: Fable, The Block, cnr Bree and Wale sts
When: 19h00 – 22h00
Culture Wine Bar
Usher in the new calendar year at the swanky Culture Wine Bar. The venue will be ringing in 2023 with live music, bubbly and tapas. The dress code is smart casual and entry is R250 and includes a glass of welcome bubbles. There’s also a R495 ticket which includes a tapas board and a glass of wine.
Where: Grub & Vine, Bree St
When: 18h30
Cost: R250 – R495
www.culturewinebar.com
Taj Cape Town
Taj Cape Town’s New Year’s Eve soiree includes a meal at either The Mint Restaurant, Bombay Brasserie or a buffet at The Reserve. The evening also features a live band and DJ, a complimentary glass of Simonsig Kaapse Vonkel on arrival and free valet parking. For enquiries, call 021 819 2000 or email restaurants.capetown@tajhotels.com.
Where: Taj Cape Town, Wale St
When: 18h30
Cost: R1 650 – R1 850
https://www.facebook.com/tajcapetown
The Athletic Club & Social
The Athletic Club & Social is closing 2022 with an exclusive event that will include a glass of champagne, two dancefloors, live jazz and a four-course meal.
Where: The Athletic Club & Social, 35 Buitengracht St
When: 19h00
Cost: R2 000
https://bit.ly/3iChfJD
Harringtons Cocktail Lounge
Harringtons Cocktail Lounge’s New Year’s Eve party is back after a three-year absence. The venue is going big with its theme, Tokyo Lights. Patrons should expect an immersive experience filled with lights and colour. In true Harringtons style, cocktails, delicious canapes, a floating-style dinner and entertainment will be on offer.
Where: Harringtons Cocktail Lounge, 61B Harrington St
When: 19h00 – 04h00
Cost: R250 – R950
https://bit.ly/3YlrUJe
EXHIBITIONS
Water
Now on till 19 January 2023
AVA’s latest exhibition features four artists who explore the power of water and how we have become hyper-aware of how essential it is. The exhibition is a culmination of the annual Nando’s Creative Exchange (NCX) programme, administered by Spier Arts Trust, in which four southern African artists are selected, supported and guided by a mentor over the course of the year.
Where: Association for Visual Arts, 35 Church St
When: 10h00 – 17h00 (Monday to Friday), 10h00 – 13h00 (Saturday)
Cost: Free
www.ava.co.za
99 Loop Gallery exhibitions
Now on till 21 January 2023
99 Loop Gallery is closing off the year with three beautiful exhibitions. This includes solo presentations by Clare Menck whose delicate paintings hint at the intimate moments that we all experience and Benjamin Stanwix who specialises in drawing and printmaking. The third presentation is a group show called “Reflection” that considers the transition into the new year ahead.
Where: 99 Loop Gallery, 99 Loop St
When: 10h00 – 15h00 (Monday to Friday), 10h00 – 14h00 (Saturday)
Cost: Free
www.99loop.co.za
Summer Curation
Now on till 20 January 2023
Be inspired by Nel gallery’s summer group show featuring various artists. The exhibition isn’t static and extends over a period of nearly three months. During this time, artworks leave the curation as they sell or when replaced with new ones. This is also a great opportunity to shop for holiday gifts.
Where: Nel, 117 Long St
When: 10h00 – 17h00 (Monday to Friday), 10h00 – 14h00 (Saturday)
Cost: Free
www.nelart.co.za
Breaking Down the Walls – 150 years of Art Collecting
Ongoing
This extraordinary exhibition, curated by Andrew Lamprecht, comprises more than five hundred artworks and aims to showcase the Iziko South African National Gallery’s art collection of 150 years. Some of the pieces are on display for the first time and art lovers can look forward to creations by South African artists such as Irma Stern, Gerard Sekoto, Peter Clarke and Gladys Mgudlandlu. Their works are juxtaposed with historical paintings and sculptures such as Rembrandt, Picasso and Goya. Don’t miss it.
Where: Iziko South African National Gallery, Government Ave
When: 09h00 – 17h00 (Monday to Sunday)
Cost: R15 – R30
www.iziko.org.za
Who were the enslaved?
Ongoing
This exhibition seeks to answer questions such as: Who were the enslaved? What work did they do? How did they manage to survive a new, unwelcoming and often violent environment once they arrived? How were they able to communicate with each other when they came from far-flung regions? As viewers explore the show, the stories of life under enslavement at the Cape of Good Hope become apparent and paint a picture of resilience in the face of extreme hardship.
Where: Iziko Slave Lodge, cnr Adderley and Wale sts
When: 09h00 – 17h00 (Monday to Saturday)
Cost: R15 – R30
www.iziko.org.za
Red in the rainbow
Now on till 27 April 2023
This exhibition sheds light on the lives of courageous people who fought against oppression and racism during apartheid South Africa. It tells the story of a family of activists, The Carnesons, who with other freedom fighters, experienced hardship including torture, imprisonment, separation and exile as they opposed apartheid and bears testimony to the human spirit.
Where: Iziko Slave Lodge, cnr Adderley and Wale sts
When: 09h00 – 17h00 (Monday to Saturday)
Cost: R15 – R30
www.iziko.org.za
Nelson Mandela legacy exhibition
Ongoing
Don’t miss the award-winning Nelson Mandela Legacy Exhibition at the City Hall. This permanent, self-guided exhibition recently won first prize at the Western Cape Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport’s Cultural Affairs Awards. The exhibition honours Madiba’s history and the country’s long struggle for liberation. There are interpretive panels, audio-visual and interactive displays. Also showing until June 2023, as part of Madiba’s exhibition, is a temporary show on the life of Enoch Mankayi Sontonga, composer of the hymn, Nkosi Sikelel’ iAfrika.
Where: Cape Town City Hall, Darling St
When: 10h00 – 16h00 (Tuesday to Friday)
Cost: Free
https://bit.ly/3JhTQpu
Rethinking the William Fehr Collection
Ongoing
People should not take things at face value and challenge themselves to grow and see the world differently. That’s the aim of this exhibition, curated by Esther Esmyol. While it’s slightly outside of the CCID’s operational footprint at the Castle of Good Hope, it’s worth viewing. It has extensive historical art and objects collected by Cape Town businessman Dr William Fehr. Iziko Museums, the custodian of the collection, urges viewers to look at the stories behind what’s presented and see multiple meanings.
Where: Castle of Good Hope, cnr Castle and Darling sts
When: 09h30 – 16h00 (Monday to Sunday)
Cost: R50 – R25
www.castleofgoodhope.co.za
Dreams as R-evolution
Now on till 17 May 2022
This one-of-a-kind show features sculptural forms, drawings, paintings, photographs and costumes. Artist Coral Bijoux challenges viewers to think deeply about transforming themselves and their environments. Check it out and, as per the show’s four pillars, dare to “reimagine ideas of self, space, authority, power and innocence”.
Where: Iziko South African National Gallery, Government Ave
When: 09h30 – 15h30 (Monday to Sunday)
Cost: R15 – R30
www.iziko.org.za
REGULAR EVENTS
Weekly Fitness Classes
Neighbourgood Bree Street hosts a high-intensity interval training class on Mondays and a yoga class on Wednesdays. Both sessions are led by professional instructors, and everyone is welcome to join.
Where: Neighbourgood Bree Workspace, 129 Bree St
When: 17h30 (Everyone meets at the lobby at 17h20 and then is taken to the area where classes take place).
www.neighbourgood.co.za
Let’s Move at Sky Hotel
Tuesdays
Come to town and enjoy a rejuvenating class on a rooftop at Sky Hotel. It’s facilitated by a qualified personal trainer with experience in Pilates, high-intensity interval training, Barre, Yoga and Intelligent Movement.
Where: 27th floor, Hotel Sky, 9 Lower Long St
When: 09h30
Cost: R150
www.hotelsky.co.za
Fresh Handmade Pasta Night at Ruby's Café
Thursdays
Indulge in handmade pasta, topped with a fresh sauce and ingredients of your choice, at Ruby's Bakery & Café inside Pepperclub Hotel.
Where: Ruby's Bakery & Café, 9 Pepper St
When: 17h00 – 21h00
Cost: R175
www.pepperclub.co.za
Cooking classes
Ongoing
The Chef’s Studio offers interactive cooking classes including for special occasions like team building, end-of-year parties or private events. The sessions are taught, supervised and judged by the venue’s highly experienced chefs.
Where: The Chef’s Studio, 103 Bree St
When: Depends on booking
Cost: Varies
www.thechefsstudio.co.za
Live Jazz at The Athletic Club & Social
Thursdays
The Athletic Club & Social hosts live jazz musicians on Thursday nights. Aside from the great line-up of artists each week, the three-storey venue has impressive food and cocktail menus and offers great views of Signal Hill. Tickets are available via Quicket. There is also a bar service.
Where: The Athletic Club & Social, 35 Buitengracht St
When: 21h30
Cost: R100
www.theathletic.co.za
Sky-Hi Ride at Hotel Sky
Ongoing
Hotel Sky in Lower Long St has a dramatic 35-metre Sky-Hi Ride on its rooftop. Thrill-seekers take a chair lift up to the top of the spire and then drop down at a free-fall speed of 100 km/hour. The ride offers the best views of Cape Town and is reportedly the first of its kind in Africa and only one of seven in the world. You can purchase a ride or observer ticket. Have a look at what’s in store for you here and be sure to book your ticket here.
Where: 28th floor, Hotel Sky, 9 Lower Long St
When: 12h00 – 20h00, Tuesday to Sunday, weather permitting
Cost: R200
https://sky-hiride.capetown/
The Blue Room at Grub & Vine
Ongoing
Treat yourself to the sounds of jazz and blues, delicious cocktails and food at The Blue Room at Grub & Vine. There are three sittings for the evening performances, which take place from Wednesday to Saturday. Thursday nights are reserved for Jazz Jam Sessions, while the other nights are reserved for performances by headline artists. Cocktails and tapas are served from 16h00 daily except on Sundays. Check out the venue’s website and social media pages to see who is performing next. A selection of spirits, wine and beers are also served.
Where: Grub & Vine, 103 Bree St
When: 20h00 – 20h40 (first session) 21h00 – 21h40 (second session), 22h00 (third session)
Cost: Cover charge of R200 per person (may differ for some artists)
www.grubandvine.co.za/the-blue-room/
Live music at Local at Heritage Square
Wednesdays
Catch gifted local musicians singing live at Local at Heritage Square on Wednesdays. The food and drink emporium has various venues, including La Cantina and Penny Noire Wine Bar, offering a variety of food and drink options.
Where: Shortmarket St, Local at Heritage Square
When: 18h00 – 21h00
Cost: Free
www.facebook.com/LocalatHeritageSquare
City Sightseeing South Africa
Ongoing
Discover or rediscover Cape Town and its surroundings by hopping on the popular Red Bus by City Sightseeing South Africa. Choose from a range of packages available for adults and kids, including a Hop on Hop Off Tour between the CBD and the V&A Waterfront. The two-day Premium Hop On-Hop Off Ticket includes an option to choose between a Harbour or Canal Cruise inbetween the three stops.
Where: City Sightseeing South Africa, 81 Long St
When: Depends on booking
Cost: R64 – R599
www.citysightseeing.co.za/en/cape-town
Jug o'clock at Clarke's Bar and Dining Room
Daily
Looking for a good deal? Head to Clarke's Bar and Dining Room for after-work drinks and take advantage of the 1.3-litre beer jug special.
Where: City Sightseeing South Africa, 133 Bree St
When: Special runs from 16h00 to 19h00
Cost: R99
www.clarkesdining.co.za
Bottomless Bubbly
Thursdays
Don’t miss out on bottomless Boschendal bubbly, fries and live music at Fable on Thursdays.
Where: Fable, The Block, cnr Bree and Wale sts
When: 19h00 – 22h00
Cost: R399 and doesn’t apply on First Thursdays
Story time for children at the Book Lounge
Every Saturday
Where: Book Lounge, 71 Roeland St
When: 11h00 (all kids are welcome and there’s no need to RSVP)
Cost: Free
www.booklounge.co.za
First Thursdays
First Thursday of every month
Where: Cape Town CBD including inside galleries and restaurants
When: 17h00 till late
Cost: Free
www.first-thursdays.co.za
IMAGES: Cape Town Summer Market, La Parada, Artscape Theatre Centre, Investec Cape Town Art Fair, Copa Restaurant, Alcazar, Taj Cape Town