The summer season is here in Cape Town! Enjoy concerts, food festival and more exciting events in the Mother City this month, plus celebrate the festive season with our choice of festive-inspired events. This guide is constantly updated as the month continues, so make sure to check back in throughout December to find your next exciting adventure.
Celebrate the Festive Season
As we transition into the magic of the festive season, Cape Town is brimming with spectacular events. Our festive events guide highlights the best festive-themed celebrations happening in the Mother City, as well as exciting events over the festive period.
Our Favourite Festive Season Events in Cape Town
Nik Rabinowitz: Geriatric Milennial
Comedian and geriatric millennial Nik Rabinowitz returns to The Baxter with a hilarious new stand-up special that takes a sharp, witty look at modern life in all its absurdity. From parenting in the digital age to surviving load-shedding, Nik’s trademark blend of quick-fire humour, social commentary, and self-deprecation will have audiences in stitches. Laugh until the power goes out, your sciatica flares up, or we all get cancelled – whichever comes first!
Cost: R225 – R300. Tickets available on Webtickets.
When: 2 – 20 December 2025 | 7pm
Where: Baxter Theatre Centre, Main Rd, Rondebosch, Cape Town
Kirstenbosch Summer Sunset Concerts
Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens in Cape Town kicks off its 2025/2026 series of Summer Sunset Concerts with a star-studded line-up of South Africa’s best-loved, grooved-to acts.
Concertgoers are welcome to pack a picnic, or to pre-order five days ahead from the Kirstenbosch Tea Room or Moyo Restaurant. Food trucks are also available at every show.
The December line-up of concerts includes:
- 7 December: Karen Zoid & Francois van Coke
- 12 December: RY X
- 14 December: Bongeziwe Mabandla & Matthew Field
- 28 December: The Kiffness
- 31 December: Mango Groove and The Billy Joel Experience
All the Info on the Kirstenbosch Summer Sunset Concerts
Betway SA20
The anticipated fourth season of the Betway SA20 cricket championship will take place in a new festive window, giving holiday-goers and those on staycations access to non-stop cricket action and entertainment.
The opening match at Newlands on Boxing Day between defending Champions MI Cape Town and Durban’s Super Giants promises electrifying fireworks to start the season. The clash will set the tone for an exciting lineup of opening-week fixtures in Pretoria, Paarl, Durban, Gqeberha, and Johannesburg.
Following last season’s record-breaking attendance figures and ticket sales, the League returns with even more energy, thrilling matchups, and unforgettable fan experiences across the six stadiums in the country. Returning with an even bigger bang, fans can expect something for everyone: world-class cricket, IG-worthy vibes, dance-cam moments and more.
Cost: From R135pp. Tickets available here.
When: 26 December 2025 – 25 January 2026
Where: Newlands Cricket Ground, 146 Campground Rd, Newlands, Cape Town
Alice in Wonderland
This ballet adaptation reimagines Lewis Carroll’s 1865 children’s classic in a production that balances whimsy with narrative clarity. Movement and staging replace words to tell the story of Alice and her encounters with the characters of Wonderland.
Audiences follow Alice as she meets the White Rabbit, the Cheshire Cat, the Mad Hatter and the Queen of Hearts. Each character is expressed through distinctive choreography and costumes, designed to reflect Carroll’s blend of absurdity and imagination.
Cost: R200 – R400. Tickets available on Webtickets.
When: 12 – 28 December 2025 | 7pm to 8:30pm | Sat & Sun matinee 2pm to 3:30pm
Where: Artscape Theatre Centre, Theatre, D.F. Malan Street, Foreshore, Cape Town
All About Alice in Wonderland
CATS
Andrew Lloyd Webber’s internationally acclaimed musical returns with a full staging of CATS. The show, based on T.S. Eliot’s Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats, first premiered in London in 1981 and became one of the longest-running theatrical productions in the world.
The story centres on the Jellicle Cats, who gather for their annual celebration during which one cat is chosen for rebirth into a new life. Characters such as Rum Tum Tugger, Mr Mistoffelees, and Grizabella the glamour cat appear in a series of linked musical numbers, each defined by its choreography and distinctive design.
Signature songs include Memory, now regarded as a classic of the musical theatre repertoire. Costumes, movement and set design evoke a dreamlike nocturnal world where cats speak through dance and music.
The revival preserves Lloyd Webber’s original score and choreography style that has made CATS a longstanding international success.
Cost: R180 – R580. Tickets available on Webtickets.
When: 10 December 2025 – 11 January 2026 | 7:30pm | Sat & Sun matinee at 2:30pm
Where: Artscape Theatre Centre, Opera House, D.F. Malan Street, Foreshore, Cape Town
More About CATS
Colleen the Musical
“If you don’t give your heart away, it will never be broken”. That is the motto of Colleen The Cashier, until Randall the Shelf-Packer comes along to steal her heart. But true love does not sail smoothly in the fast-paced world of cashiers, customers, cigarette counters and supervisers. We can only patiently wait in that till queue to find out whether Colleen has any regrets about breaking her own rules.
Colleen The Musical is comedian Marc Lottering’s fourth musical comedy, following hot on the stilettos of the critically acclaimed Aunty Merle trilogy. Produced by Anwar Mc Kay, Colleen The Musical is directed by Lara Foot, with a stellar cast includes David Chevers, Carlo Daniels, Jill Levenberg, Marc Lottering, Sizwesandile Mnisi, Kate Normington, and Anzio September.
Cost: R200 – R380. Tickets available on Webtickets.
When: 27 November 2025 – 7 February 2026 | 7.30pm | Sat matinee at 3pm
Where: Baxter Theatre Centre, Main Rd, Rondebosch, Cape Town
Check Out a Festive Market
Experience a variety of popular, immersive and magical festive markets, with a wide variety of culinary delights, live music performances and the perfect goods to complete your Christmas wish list. With markets happening throughout November and December, this is the perfect guide to get you up to date on your shopping and supporting local vendors.
See our list of Festive Markets to enjoy this season
Moana Jr
Sonwa Sakuba Institute for the Performing Arts (SSIPA) proudly presents its Cape Town debut production – Disney’s Moana Jr – a heartwarming, adventure-filled musical on stage for one week only.
Based on the beloved Disney animated film and featuring an all kids cast aged 6 to 18, Moana JR is a vibrant celebration of courage, identity and the power of self-discovery.
Moana Jr is Directed and Choreographed by Sonwa Sakuba, an acclaimed South African performer, choreographer and director whose work has been celebrated on stages across the country with credits such as SARAFINA!, The Tramp, Buzani Kubawo, and Once On This Island to name a few.
Cost: R150 | R120 (kids / students). Tickets available here.
When: 16 – 23 December 2025 | 11am & 7pm
Where: Theatre Arts, Methodist Church Hall corner Milton Road and Wesley Street, Observatory
Trash Bash
The Trash Bash is an initiative dedicated to tackling plastic pollution and raising awareness about the harmful effects it has on marine ecosystems. By rolling up your sleeves and participating, you’re making a real difference for the environment while enjoying a morning at the beach.
This is the perfect opportunity for families to come together and learn about the dangers of plastic pollution and the importance of conservation awareness for biodiversity. Make sure to bring a bucket or bag for collecting trash, some reusable gloves, and your desire to make a difference!
Cost: Free
When: 20 December 2025 | 9 am to 11 am
Where: Sunrise Beach, Milnerton
Visit Klein Alto Wine Estate
Klein Alto, situated in the heart of the Helderberg in Stellenbosch, is functioning as the ‘home away from home’ for Alto Wine Estate while it undergoes various renovations. However, the estate continues to offer a variety of summer experiences, with their new summer menu, Sunset Rouge experiences, and more.
The new summer menu at Klein Alto Restaurant showcases a selection of fresh seasonal creations, and the brand-new Summer Canapé and Wine Pairing experience allows you to try specially crafted canapés and some of the estate’s signature wines. Meanwhile, the Sunset Rouge experience allows you to soak in the breathtaking panoramic views of the Helderberg while enjoying live music by local musicians.
Tasting Room: Daily | 10am – 5pm. Book here.
Restaurant: Open for lunch Tuesday – Sunday (11am – 5pm) and dinner Wednesday & Friday (11am – 9pm). Book here.
Where: Klein Alto Wine Tasting & Restaurant, Annandale Rd, Stellenbosch
More About Klein Alto Wine Estate
Naledi’s Book of Magic
V&A Waterfront is keeping both kids and grown-ups entertained over the summer holiday break with Naledi’s Book of Magic, an exciting live musical show. This production will be staged inside a purpose-built theatre over the V&A Waterfront Amphitheatre for an immersive indoor theatrical experience.
Meet Naledi, a bright-eyed young explorer whose special holiday wish brings joy, laughter, and surprises for everyone. From sparkling music to dazzling magic tricks, joyful dancing, and heartwarming moments, this enchanting experience turns every corner into a place of wonder. Join Naledi as she discovers the spirit of the season and celebrates the holidays in a world full of fun, excitement, and festive cheer!
Cost: Free
When: 20 – 24 December 2025 and 3 – 7 January 2026 | 5.15pm
Where: Amphitheatre, Dock Road, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town
More About Naledi’s Book of Magic
V&A Waterfront New Year’s Eve Celebration
Immerse yourself in a vibrant celebration with the V&A Waterfront New Year’s Eve party! Enjoy an exciting lineup of musical artists and book a table at one of the surrounding restaurants to fully encapsulate the NYE energy.
Join Emo Adams and Loukmaan Adams, Zoë Modiga, GoodLuck, DJ Shezzy K and the Starlight Band for an unforgettable evening.
Celebrate with sparklers, bubbles, and delicious food all the way to midnight and beyond!
When: 31 December 2025
Where: V&A Waterfront, Cape Town
All About the V&A Waterfront NYE Celebration
Visit the Galileo Open Air Cinema at the Croquet Lawns, V&A Waterfront
The Croquet Lawn once again hosts The Galileo Open-Air Cinema at this scenic rooftop location, perched above the Ulundi Parking Garage. With sweeping views of the working harbour and the iconic Table Mountain, it offers a truly unique movie venue in the heart of Cape Town.
The screenings offered at the Croquet Lawn this season are:
- Fri 5 December: Frozen
- Thu 11 December: School of Rock
- Thu 18 December: Top Gun (1986)
- Tue 23 December: Elf
Bookings can be made on Webtickets.
Pack a picnic or visit the lovely vendors at The Galileo mini-market to purchase delicious food and drinks. Choose from a variety of meals, beverages, and tasty snacks, or bring your own picnic to enjoy & relax under the night sky.
All December Galileo Screenings
Catch Not Without Hope in Cinemas
Based on an extraordinary true story, Not Without Hope tackles the story of four friends and their epic fight for survival in the face of danger.
Best friends Nick Schuyler (Zachary Levi) and Will Bleakley (Marshall Cook), and NFL players Marquis Cooper (Quentin Plair) and Corey Smith (Terrence Terrell), depart Clearwater, Florida for a fishing trip 70 miles out in the Gulf of Mexico. While attempting to free a trapped anchor before a fierce storm hits, their boat capsizes, throwing the four friends violently into the freezing water.
Not Without Hope lands in cinemas on 5 December 2025, and will be screened in various Ster-Kinekor and Nu-Metro branches.
All About Not Without Hope
Visit Le Bonheur Reptiles and Adventures
A visit to Le Bonheur Reptiles and Adventures allows for the daring to get close to various types of cold-blooded creatures, from snappy crocodiles to sneaky snakes.
Explore Le Bonheur Reptiles & Adventures this summer season with a variety of events, including:
- Cage Dives: Take things to the next level with the crocodile cage diving experience by sharing a pond with Africa’s top apex predator, the Nile crocodile. Spend around 20 minutes in the crocs’ watery habitat and get to observe how these ambush predators behave in their element. The crocodile cage diving experience is both underwater and at surface level. Takes place daily at 2pm.
- Africa’s Deadliest Snake Show: Learn about the most dangerous snakes in Africa and see them in the flesh with this immersive snake show. Taking place on 28 December 2025 and 4 January 2026 at 12.30pm.
Cost: Crocodile Tour: R152pp (adults) | R98pp (children aged 17 and younger) | Snake Showcase: R105pp (adults) | R95pp (children). Bookings can be made on the website.
When: Open daily | 9am – 5pm
Where: LeBonheur Adventures, Babylonstoren Rd, Paarl
Everything About Le Bonheur Reptiles and Adventures
Sunglass Hut: Own Your Moment Singing Contest
Sunglass Hut South Africa is launching the “Own Your Moment” Talent Show, an exciting live singing competition taking place at the Amphitheatre, V&A Waterfront. Created to celebrate confidence, creativity, and self-expression, the series offers emerging performers a vibrant platform to shine in one of Cape Town’s most iconic outdoor venues.
Running across multiple live shows, the competition invited members of the public to enter and showcase their vocal talent in front of judges Vicky Sampson and Karin Kortje, including a rotating weekly surprise celebrity guest judge. Each show will highlight new voices, compelling performances, and inspiring personal journeys as contestants bring their unique sound and style to the amphitheatre.
Cost: Free
When: Show on 14 December 2025 | grand finale on 18 December 2025 | 5pm
Where: Amphitheatre, V&A Waterfront
Celebrate the Festive Season at the One&Only
Enjoy a luxurious festive experience at the One&Only Cape Town this December, with a variety of exciting events for couples, families and more. From exquisite meals to summer experiences, keep up to date with the variety of festive events in our guide.
The Full Schedule for Festive Events at the One&Only
Visit the Hotel Sky
This festive period, enjoy a variety of events at the Hotel Sky, which boasts incredible skyline views and some of the best amenities the city can offer. From festive lunch options to New Year’s Eve celebrations, check out our guide for everything about this iconic Cape Town hotel.
Everything You Need to Know About Hotel Sky
South African Lipizzaners Christmas Celebration Performances
The South African Lipizzaners invite families to celebrate the festive season with their much-loved Christmas Celebration Performances — a magical live equestrian show featuring the famous Dancing White Stallions.
These performances combine classical riding, festive music, elegant choreography, and powerful traditional movements, creating a unique Christmas experience that appeals to families, children, animal lovers, and tourists alike.
The Christmas Celebration Performances is a feel-good, family-friendly outing that combines heritage, entertainment, and holiday spirit. The performances give guests a unique experience, blending classic riding with graceful movements and sprinkled with festive cheer. Attendees can also feed the horses carrots after the performance, or even visit the on-site restaurant for refreshments before or after the performance.
Cost: R200 | R150 (children under 12 and pensioners). Book tickets on Quicket.
When: 6 – 7 and 20 – 23 December 2025 | 2pm
Where: Mistico Equestrian Centre, R312, Lichtenburg Road, Paarl
More About the South African Lipizzaners
Mini Makers Summer Edition – Kids Cooking Classes
Let your little chefs get creative in the kitchen this festive season! The fun and interactive Kids Cooking Classes are designed especially for children aged 5 to 12. Each session, your child will make one sweet and one savoury treat to take home and share with the family.
Makers Landing provides all ingredients, equipment, and aprons. Just bring your excitement and creativity!
December Workshop Lineup:
18 Dec: Brownies & Cheesy Bread Pinwheels
19 Dec: No-Churn Ice Cream & Spaghetti and Meatballs
20 Dec: Strawberry Cake & Garden Focaccia
23 Dec: Xmas Tree Cupcakes & Snowman Pizza
24 Dec – Special Event: Big Chef, Little Chef – Gingerbread House Making.
In this event, a parent or guardian steps into the kitchen alongside their young chef for a festive Gingerbread House making session.
Cost: R480 per workshop. Tickets available here.
When: 18 – 24 December 2025 and 8 – 11 January 2026 | 10am – 12 noon
Where: Maker’s Landing, V&A Waterfront
FlySafair Get Lucky Summer
South Africa’s multi-award-winning electronic band GoodLuck is thrilled to announce the return of their annual Flysafair Get Lucky Summer concert series, taking over Cape Town, Plettenberg Bay and Knysna this December and January 2026.
Now in its 12th year, Get Lucky Summer has become an unmissable part of the country’s festive calendar – combining world-class live music, beautiful coastal settings, and pure summer, family energy.
The full festival schedule is as follows:
20 December 2025: Constantia Sports Field, Cape Town. Featuring GoodLuck, Matthew Mole, Will Linley, Majozi & Freddy L. Tickets available here.
21 December 2025: The Beacon Island Resort, Plett. Featuring Prime Circle & friends. Tickets available here.
28 December 2025: The Beacon Island Resort, Plett. Featuring GoodLuck & Grassy Spark. Tickets available here.
29 December 2025: Loerie Park Fields, Knysna. Featuring GoodLuck, Will Linley, Freshlyground, Ben Rodrigues & Steve Umculo. Tickets available here.
31 December 2025: Robberg Rugby Field, Plett. Featuring Jeremy Loops, Ben Rodrigues, Me & Mr Green, Veranda Panda & Steve Umculo. Tickets available here.
4 January 2026: The Beacon Island Resort, Plett. Featuring GoodLuck & Easy Freak. Tickets available here.
All About Get Lucky Summer
