Town is serving up a fantastic menu filled with great events and experiences this holiday season.
Now on till 2 December 2023
And Then
Treat yourself to a riveting performance by acclaimed dancer and choreographer Jackï Job and classical piano virtuoso José Dias. The production, called And Then, is inspired by the praying mantis and will highlight themes such as desire, compassion, acceptance and love. It started in 2018 and has taken many forms including a film that aired in 2020. And Then was nominated for a Naledi Theatre Award and won the UCT Meritorious Award for Creative Works in 2022.
Where: Artscape Theatre Centre, D.F. Malan St
When: Various times
Cost: R250
https://bit.ly/47ONfi8
Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra’s German Splendour
30 November 2023
Don’t miss, German Splendour, the final concert of the Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra’s Summer Symphonies Season. It will be conducted by principal guest conductor Bernhard Gueller and features soloist Leo Gevisser, on piano, who is returning to Cape Town for the concert from his studies at the Juilliard School in New York. Music lovers can expect works such as Beethoven's Piano Concerto No. 1, Wagner's Vorspiel und Liesbestod from Tristan und Isolde and Strauss Tod und Verklärung.
Where: Cape Town City Hall, Darling St
When: 19h30
Cost: R65
https://www.cpo.org.za/new/german-splendour/
Cathy’s Christmas Concert
1 - 3 December 2023
Performer Brendan van Rhyn is back in town, with his alter ego Cathy Specific, and has wonderful and light-hearted stories to share. He will be joined by Jess von Alleman, Elaine Fourie, Michael Neill and Rynhardt van Blerk. Prepare for an evening filled with laughter and great tunes.
Where: Star Theatre at the Home Coming Centre, cnr of Buitenkant and Caledon Sts
When: 20h00
Cost: R300 – R380
www.homecomingcentre.co.za
Playtopia
7 - 9 December 2023
Those who love digital arts will feel right at home at Playtopia, Africa’s first indie games and immersive arts festival and conference. The event aims to celebrate the country’s diverse game development community and inspire the next generation of creators, gamers and enthusiasts. It’s a place for people to come together to play, share ideas, connect and exhibit work in the interactive and immersive digital arts.
Where: Star Theatre at the Home Coming Centre, cnr of Buitenkant and Caledon Sts
When: 18h00
Cost: R150
www.playtopia.co.za
VOOMA!
7 - 17 December 2023
The festive season is not complete without a Zip Zap Circus show suitable for all ages. The fast-paced production is a celebration of the circus and features trapeze acts, acrobatics, skilful juggling, and comedy. The VOOMA! cast are young performers who have honed their craft through Zip Zap's advanced student Zappers and Dare2Dream programmes. They will appreciate the support.
Where: Zip Zap Dome, 10 Jan Smuts St near Artscape Theatre Centre, DF Malan St
When: Depends on booking
Cost: R125
www.zip-zap.co.za
A Christmas Carol – The Story of Scrooge
8 - 29 December 2023
What is the festive season without Cape Town City Ballet’s A Christmas Carol? The magical show, choreographed by Veronica Paeper, tells Charles Dickens’ legendary tale of Ebeneezer Scrooge who hates Christmas. Bring the whole family to watch it and be inspired by the message of generosity and how good triumphs over greed.
Where: Artscape Theatre Centre, D.F. Malan St
When: Various times
Cost: R200 – R400
https://tinyurl.com/yc7jsa4k
The Sound of Music
14 December - 14 January 2024
The hills will come alive this December when Pieter Toerien, with Cape Town Opera, presents the much-anticipated revival tour of what is surely one of the most popular musicals of all time. Catch Rodgers & Hammerstein’s The Sound of Music and treat the family to this inspirational story based on the memoir of Maria von Trapp. Directed by Steven Stead, the production promises to be a stellar theatrical event.
Where: Artscape Theatre Centre
When: Depends on booking
Cost: R150 - R550
www.artscape.co.za
Loyiso Gola Live
15 December 2023 - 15 January 2024
Catch two-time Emmy-nominated South African comedian Loyiso Gola at the District Six Homecoming Centre (HCC) as he gives a comedic take on this year’s dramatic events.
Where: Home Coming Centre, cnr of Buitenkant and Caledon Sts
When: 20h00
Cost: R275
www.homecomingcentre.co.za
Unity On The Square 2023
16 December 2023
Come into town on Reconciliation Day to celebrate unity and diversity. The family-friendly concert has a fantastic line-up that includes Jimmy Nevis, Kurt Darren, Paxton Fielies, Emo Adams, Youngsta CPT, Clair Phillips, Jack Parrow, Kurt Darren and many more. There will also be food trucks, a coffee bar, merchandise by various artists and a kids’ zone to keep children safe and occupied.
Where: Greenmarket Square, cnr of Buitenkant and Caledon Sts
When: 14h00
Cost: R99
https://tinyurl.com/4ayf6f23
Brenda Mtambo Live
16 December 2023
Songstress Brenda Mtambo is celebrating a decade of being a solo artist as well as the release of her 3rd studio album titled SANE and her journey of self-discovery and healing. She has promised her supporters a stellar production and a “spirit-filled concert”.
Where: Star Theatre at the Home Coming Centre, cnr of Buitenkant and Caledon Sts
When: 19h30
Cost: R350 – R400
www.homecomingcentre.co.za
Pumpkin Finds Her Kindness: The Play
15 - 23 December 2023
Bring the kids to town for a heartwarming show in which little Pumpkin navigates feelings of jealousy and envy after a competition loss and eventually learns about self-discovery, friendship and kindness. The production is based on a book, Pumpkin Finds Her Kindness, by Bianca Flanders who also stars on the show alongside Dean Balie. It is a perfect treat for little ones as it is filled with catchy songs and puppets.
Where: Artscape Theatre Centre
When: Depends on booking
Cost: R150 - R550
www.artscape.co.za
My Cape Town Market
16 - 20 December 2023
The City of Cape Town’s flagship Summer Market is a wonderful space to shop for Christmas gifts and support local entrepreneurs. It presents an opportunity for bakers, designers, fresh produce sellers and other artisans and crafters to showcase their goods to consumers in a space loved by locals and international visitors alike. It is suitable for the whole family and features kid rides, a street culture zone and live bands. Parking is allowed along the road.
Where: Company’s Garden, 15 Queen Victoria St
When: 13h00 – 19h00
Cost: Free
Cape Minstrel Parade and Malay Choirs Road March
31 December 2023 - 2 January 2024
The iconic Cape Minstrel Parade and Malay Choirs Road March will once again delight both locals and tourists in a massive and colourful parade. The Malay Choirs Road March will be held on 31 December and the massive Tweede Nuwe Jaar, which has been celebrated in the Cape for more than 110 years, will take place on 2 January 2024 to mark the start of the year in style.
Where: Rose, Wale, Adderley and Darling Sts; watch press for details
When: 12h00 till 23h00
Cost: Free
www.facebook.com/kaapseklopsekarnivalasosiasie/
Planetarium
Now on till 13 December 2023
Come to town with the whole family and take a trip beyond the stars at the Iziko Planetarium & Digital Dome. The summer programme has a range of interesting shows such as We Are Stars, Rising Star, Phantom of the Universe and Tycho to the Moon where Tycho, the dog, and his young American friends go on an amazing ride to the moon.
Where: Planetarium, 25 Queen Victoria St
When: 09h00 and 17h00 (Tuesday to Sunday)
Cost: R40 – R70 and R100 if one can’t produce a valid SA ID or SADC identification.
www.iziko.org.za
Christmas at Copa Restaurant
25 December 2023
Pepperclub Hotel’s Copa Restaurant will be hosting its annual Christmas Eve dinner and a Christmas Day lunch. Both days will be amazing experiences brimming with warmth, joy, the spirit of Christmas and delicious meals prepared to perfection. 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: R650 per adult and R325 per child between 2 – 12 years
www.pepperclub.co.za
New Year’s Eve at Copa Restaurant
31 December 2023
Usher in the New Year at Pepperclub Hotel’s Copa Restaurant which has a fabulous night planned. It includes oysters and bubbles on arrival, live music and a delectable seven-course dinner. 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: R1 650 per person and R825 for kids under 12 years
www.pepperclub.co.za
Sky-Hi Ride
Ongoing
Experience some of the best views of the city and a mighty adrenaline rush. An eye-catching feature on the 28th floor of Hotel Sky, Sky-Hi Ride is a 35-metre thrill ride that takes you up in a chair lift, giving you a bird's eye view of Cape Town. Weather permitting, the Sky-Hi Ride is open to hotel guests and outside visitors. You can purchase a ride or observer ticket. A ride is free on one’s birthday.
Where: 28th Floor, Hotel Sky, 9 Lower Long St
When: 12h00 – 20h00 (Tuesday to Sunday)
Cost: R200 per person (Webtickets)
https://sky-hiride.capetown/
Christmas at Taj Cape Town
25 December 2023
Celebrate Christmas with a hearty meal at The Mint Restaurant or Bombay Brasserie at Taj Cape Town. Both restaurants will have buffet menus and offer welcome drinks and a gift for children under 12 years. There will also be a live band to ensure everyone has a great time.
Where: Taj Cape Town, 1 Wale St
When: 12h30 – 15h00
Cost: R1 650 per person and half price for children under 12 years
www.tajhotels.com
New Year’s Eve at Taj Cape Town
31 December 2023
Ring in the New Year at Taj Cape Town. The three options to choose from include dinner at either The Mint Restaurant, Bombay Brasserie or The Reserve, an exclusive event space inside the hotel. Each experience has been tailor-made and will include live entertainment and sumptuous food.
Where: Taj Cape Town, 1 Wale St
When: 12h30 – 15h00
Cost: R1 450 – R1 950 and half price for children under 12 years
www.tajhotels.com
Christmas at Grub & Vine
22 - 24 December 2023
Embrace the spirit of togetherness at Grub & Vine which has a festive feast that includes Canapés and a three-course meal for lunch only and a six-course tasting menu, which is available for lunch and dinner. The meals will be paired with the finest South African and international wines.
Where: Grub & Vine, 103 Bree St
When: Depends on booking
Cost: R695 (lunch only) – R1 195 (lunch and dinner)
www.grubandvine.co.za
New Year’s Eve at Grub & Vine
31 December 2023
To set the tone for the year ahead, Grub & Vine has a fabulous New Year’s Eve dinner planned. It includes great wines and mouthwatering food by Chef Patron Matt Manning who scooped four accolades at the recent Star Wine List of the Year Awards, which celebrate the top wine lists in the country.
Where: Grub & Vine, 103 Bree St
When: 16h30 for 17h00 and 21h00 for 21h30
Cost: R1 495
www.grubandvine.co.za
Christmas Dinner at The Blue Room
24 December 2023
Enjoy a sumptuous dinner to the sounds of jazz at Grub & Vine’s Blue Room on Christmas Eve. On New Year’s Eve, the venue will host a memorable dining and live music experience from 18h00 onwards.
Where: The Blue Room, 103 Bree St
When: 18h00
Cost: R995 per person
www.theblueroomza.com
St Georges Market
Every Thursday
The Thursday lunchtime food market that used to take place on St Georges Mall is back. It’s a wonderful opportunity to explore the CBD and support local entrepreneurs. The market features over 20 food vendors who offer patrons a taste of Cape Town’s rich culinary scene. A few entrepreneurs specialising in vintage clothing also form part of the market. Food vendors include Chef Lee’s Creations, Motherland Coffee Company, Seven Colours Eatery, Greek Eats, House of Halloumi, Sweet and Spicy, Zanne's Fare, St G’s Biltong, Taro Tea Co. and Crepe Town. Everyone is welcome.
Where: St Georges Mall, between Wale and Church Sts
When: 11h00 – 15h00
Cost: Free
www.stgsmarket.com
First Thursdays events at The Station on Bree
7 December 2023 – 4 April 2024
With the weather warming up, The Station on Bree will be hosting its First Thursdays events which incorporate road closures, musicians and live DJs. Approved events will take place on 7 December 2023, 4 January 2024, 1 February 2024, 7 March 2024 and 4 April 2024.
Where: The Station on Bree, 207 Bree St
When: 18h00
Cost: Free
www.thestation.capetown
East City Sessions
Every Thursday
The classic cocktail lounge, restaurant and boutique bar offers an expertly curated selection of established jazz acts and up-and-coming experimental acts on Thursday nights. So, mark your calendars. While entry is free, booking via bookings@harringtonstreet.co.za is advised.
Where: Harringtons Cocktail Lounge, 61B Harrington St
When: 19h00
Cost: Free
Instagram: @eastcitysessions
Cape Town Cycle Tour
10 March 2024
Entries are open for the 46th edition of the 2024 Cape Town Cycle Tour. The iconic event is the biggest timed bike race in the world and will mark its 46th anniversary in 2024. Cycling enthusiasts can take on the main event’s 109 km route around the Cape Peninsula while those who prefer a shorter distance can take on the 42 km path which starts and ends at the Grand Parade.
Where: Grand Parade, 70 Bree St
When: 18h00
Cost: R850 – R400
www.capetowncycletour.com
Guided Tour of The Attic
Ongoing
Cape Town tour guide Lesley Cox has tailor-made walking tours that centre around the city’s rich history. One of her guided tours includes the Civic Collection Exhibition which is set up in the attic of City Hall. It features various historic and valuable movable heritage assets (archival, archaeological, historical, scientific and artistic) that encapsulate pieces of Cape Town’s management and growth over centuries. The exhibition was curated City’s Arts and Culture branch which also manages it. Cox also offers the following walking tours: Historical City Centre, Historical Waterfront, Castle of Good Hope, Company’s Garden and Themed Walking Tours, which include the History of Judaism in South Africa, The History of Christianity in South Africa, Memorial Art in the City Centre and Architecture in the City Centre.
Where: Cape Town City Hall, Darling St
When: Depends on bookings
Cost: Email lesley@capetownwalkingtours.com or call 073 656 9496
www.capetownwalkingtours.com
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.
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 town daily. Organisers are keen to make Cape Town walkable for everyone and tour operators therefore rely on tips from clients. 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, Spin St
When: 11h00, 14h00 and 16h20
Cost: Free
http://bit.ly/3ELMAlt
Viewpoints & Watering Holes Tour
Ongoing
This unique Central City tour sees attendees travelling by bus to six pubs, bars and rooftops in town while listening to fascinating stories that shaped Cape Town and its CBD. The initiative is by Gerald Garner, a city activist and tourism pioneer. Garner also leads the tours which start at Neighbourgood Bree Street and go through 14 Stories Rooftop Bar (Buitengracht St), Cloud 9 (Tamboerskloof), Athletic Club & Social (Buitengracht St), The Drinkery (Heritage Square) and Cape Town Gin & Spirits Emporium (Waterfront). Stops may be adjusted depending on private event bookings at venues. Garner also offers half-day walking tours from 09h00 to 13h00 and from 14h00 to 18h00. To book, send a WhatsApp to 082 894 5216 or email to gerald@localplaces.co.za.
Where: Meet at Neighbourgood Bree Street, 129 Bree St
When: 14h00 – 20h00
Cost: R1 000 – R850 per person
www.localplaces.co.za
EXHIBITIONS
99 Loop Gallery exhibitions
7 December- 20 January 2024
99 Loop Gallery will be showcasing Hot Spell, a new group show for the summer season. The exhibition will feature artworks by top emerging and established artists from South Africa.
Where: 99 Loop Gallery, 99 Loop St
When: 10h00 – 15h00 (Monday to Friday), 10h00 – 14h00 (Saturday)
Cost: Free
www.99loop.co.za
Now on until 6 December 2023
Wake Up, We’re Still Dreaming
In Wake Up, We’re Still Dreaming, Nigerian-based artist William Chechet uses the collage technique to highlight how history is constructed and framed. Chechet is known for his pop art collages in which he incorporates popular culture images with archival imagery from his Northern Nigerian heritage.
Where: Eclectica Contemporary, 56 Church St
When: 09h30 – 17h00 (Monday to Friday), 10h30 – 14h00 (Saturday)
Cost: Free
www.eclecticacontemporary.co.za
Awaken
Ongoing
Catch Awaken in which artist Ferial Mohamed wants to understand our humanity, what our consciousness is, where it comes from, and what we become without it. Throughout the year, Nel runs a constantly changing exhibition of paintings, sculptures and ceramics.
Where: Nel, 117 Long St
When: 10h00 – 17h00 (Tuesday to Friday), 10h30 – 14h00 (Saturday)
Cost: Free
www.nelart.co.za
The Artists Gallery
Ongoing
The Artists Gallery is the newest addition to the CBD’s vibrant art scene. The space shows art by some of the country’s talented artists and is on a mission to display artworks that make people feel good and inspired. Some of the amazing artists to check out are Corne Eksteen, Sara Gaqa, Androetta Bekker, Fadiel Hermans and Moeketsi Moahloli.
Where: The Artists Gallery, 34 Bree St
When: 10h00 – 17h00 (Monday, Tuesday and Friday), 10h00 – 19h30 (Thursday), 10h00 – 14h00 (Saturday)
Cost: Free
www.theartistsgallery.co.za
Galleria Gibello
Ongoing
Pop into Galleria Gibello for a dose of inspiration and joy. Owned by Caroline Gibello, it showcases wildlife and fine art photography. On her website Gibello explains that her work conveys a strong sense of beauty and reverence for spirit and her images bear witness to the multi-colours, textures and tapestries of the world in which we live.
Where: Galleria Gibello, 65 Loop St
When: 10h00 – 16h00 (Monday to Friday)
Cost: Free
www.carolinegibello.com
Breaking down the walls – 150 years of art collecting
Ongoing
This extraordinary exhibition of more than 500 works, curated by Andrew Lamprecht, showcases the Iziko South African National Gallery’s 150-year art collection. Some of the pieces are on display for the first time and art lovers can look forward to creations by 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: R70 (adults), R40 (children, SA students and pensioners) and R100 for patrons who don’t have or can’t produce a South African ID or SADC passport.
www.iziko.org.za
Hidden Wonders of the Iziko South African Museum
Ongoing
The Iziko South African Museum is a treasure trove for those seeking mind-expanding experiences. Check out Hidden Wonders to view the venue’s extraordinary and almost 200-year-old collections. Some of the unique objects featured are ostrich eggshells that were carved into jewellery and given as gifts as well as a real preserved specimen of the “Living fossil fish” discovered by JLB Smith.
Where: The Iziko South African Museum, 25 Queen Victoria St
When: 09h00 – 17h00 (Monday to Sunday)
Cost: R70 (adults), R40 (children, SA students and pensioners) and R100 for patrons who don’t have or can’t produce a South African ID or SADC passport.
www.iziko.org.za
Who were the enslaved?
Ongoing
This exhibition asks 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? How did they 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: R70 (adults), R40 (children, SA students and pensioners) and R100 for patrons who don’t have or can’t produce a South African ID or SADC passport.
www.iziko.org.za
Nelson Mandela legacy exhibition
Ongoing
Don’t miss the award-winning Nelson Mandela Legacy Exhibition at the City Hall. In October 2022, this permanent, self-guided exhibition won first prize at the Cultural Affairs Awards by the Western Cape Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport. In November 2022, it won an accolade for Local Government Commitment at the National Heritage Council of South Africa’s 9th Annual Golden Shield Heritage Awards. It honours Madiba’s history and the country’s long struggle for liberation. There are interpretive panels, audio-visual and interactive displays.
Where: Cape Town City Hall, Darling St
When: 10h00 – 16h00 (Tuesday to Friday)
Cost: Free
https://bit.ly/3JhTQpu
REGULAR EVENTS
The Jam at Gorgeous George
Tuesdays
Musos keen on a jamming session have a home at the Gorgeous George hotel. The jam happens on Tuesdays and allows musicians to bring their instruments and play with other artists. Anyone is welcome, from music lovers to guitarists, singers, piano players to drummers.
Where: Gorgeous George, 118 St Georges Mall
When: Every Tuesday from 08h00 – 23h00
Cost: Free
Instagram: @gorgeousgeorgecpt
Jazz Night at Amber on Bree
Enjoy the beautiful sounds of Jazz at Amber on Bree on Thursday nights. The venue also has cocktail and draught specials daily from 16h00 to 18h00.
Where: Amber on Bree, 16 on Bree, Shop 1 & 2
When: 20h00 – 22h00
Cost: Free
www.amber-restaurants.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
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 every week from Tuesday to Saturday. Check out the venue’s website and social media pages to see who is performing next. A pre-show dinner is also available between 18h00 and 20h00. A selection of spirits, wine and beers are also served from 16h00 until late.
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/
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: The Blue Room, Rikki Hibbert, The Artists Gallery, Playtopia, Cape Town Free Walking Tours, Brenda Mtambo, Artscape