Spending Christmas in South Africa is a truly unique affair, especially because there is so much going on and to do during this period of year. CapeTownMagazine.com gladly gives you an overview of Christmas activities across South Africa, starting with Cape Town and the winelands.

Christmas Events in Cape Town in 2007

2005:

27 November - January: Watch the Christmas lights on Adderley Street

One of the highlights of the festive season on Cape Town is the switching on of the Christmas lights on Adderley Street. It is one of the events that bring 100% pure Christmas spirit to Cape Town.

Where? Adderley Street

3-24 December - Slide in real snow at Canal Walk!
Come along and experience a breathtaking tube slide down our awesome 18 metre snow ramp and get a chance to play in real, cold snow, made from pure water!

Where? Canal Walk at Century City. When? 10am - 10pm (9pm on 24 Dec)

15 - 17 December: Christmas carols in Stellenbosch
Get some Christmas spirit and celebrate a Cape Christmas while listening to the best-known carols and songs from around the world at the Oude Libertas Amphitheatre, performed by the Philharmonia Choir of Cape Town and the Solid Brass Quintet

Where? Oude Libertas Amphitheatre in Stellenbosch. Contact: +27 (0) 21 809 73 80. When? 15 - 17 December at 8:15pm.


3 -24 December: The largest Christmas tree in Canal Walk
Take break from your Christmas shopping mission in Canal walk shopping centre. If not for yourself, then for the beautifully decorated Christmas tree. With 18 meters it is the largest indoor Christmas tree in South Africa. The little ones can have theior picture taken with Santa Claus, every day between 9am and 10pm (24 December, 9am - 9pm)

Where? Canal Walk Shopping Mall at Century City. When? 3 -24 December. Contact: + 27 (0) 21 5554444

3-11 December: Christmas Lights Extravaganza in Somerset West
Every Year at Christmas time the main street of Somerset West, Cape Town is transformed into a magical fairyland for the annual Festival of Lights.
Where? Main Street Somerset West. When? 3-11 December.

15 -16 December: Christmas Carols at Spier Estate
No Christmas spirit yet? That will all change during the Christmas Carol evenings at Spier estate in Stellenbosch. The evenings will be presented by Richard Cock, well-known for his entertaining presentations of choral music, and the programme of carols includes excerpts from Handel's Messiah with the support of the Cape Philharmonice Orchestra, soprano Beverley Chiat and the Princess Square Singers.
Where? Spier Estate in Stellenbosch. When? 15 & 16 Deecember at 8.30pm. Contact? 27 (21) 809 1100. Price? R100. R60. R40. Dress? Formal. Children are encouraged to dress up. 


16 December - Santa arrives at the V&A Waterfront
There is no Christmas without Santa Claus! His arrival at the V&A Waterfront is always a massive happening, with music, song and dance and loads of fun! It is a great day out for the entire family.
Where? V&A Waterfront. When? 16 December. Contact? +27 (0)21 408 7600.

16-18 December: Gifts extravaganza at Convention Centre
No Christmas gifts? Go to the Visa Christmas Gift Show at the International Convention centre of Cape Town. This stylish and inspirational shopping event which will bring together the most desirable and original gifts, decorations and festive entertaining ideas. Live performances and interactive exhibits will bring the show to life and keep visitors entertained.
Where? Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC). Contact: +27 (0) 21 671 0935. When? 16 - 18 December.

Until 7 January - Ghoema at the Baxter Theatre
Ghoema, a creation by David Kramer and Taliep Petersen, is a great new South African musical that will take you on a musical journey celebrating our Cape roots. It is the perfect way to end Christmas day.
Where? The Baxter Theatre. When? 11 November - 7 January 2006. Contact: + 27 (0) 21 680 3989 or +27(0) 021 685 7880

18 December: Carols By Candlelight at the Company Gardens
Listen to the Christmas tunes, while...