Cape Town Carnival

Festive season in Cape Town

+27 (0)21 510 4004
5 Hermes Street | Paarden Eiland City Centre
http://www.capetowncarnival.com/
kelli@capetowncarnival.com
ctcarnival
Cape Town Carnival 2010

Festive season in Cape Town

Deck the halls and have a sunny Christmas and New Year’s season in Cape Town

It is often said that there’s nothing better than a white Christmas, but in truth, a festive season spent amidst Cape Town’s beautiful beaches, breathtaking surroundings and delightfully warm weather seems a far more attractive possibility. Not to mention, during December in Cape Town the city and it’s surroundings come to life with an array of events, vibrant energy and not-to-be-missed attractions.

So, what can you expect in Cape Town this festive season?

Christmas Events and Festivities
Christmas in the Mother City is all about warm summer days spent on our magnificent shoreline, and crisp summer evenings sipping cocktails at chic rooftop bars or any one of the city’s countless hidden gems. If by now, you still haven't secured Christmas plans, have a look at the number of Christmas Eve and Christmas Day events happening around town, or if it’s a christmas meal you're after a pick of Christmas lunches and dinner parties would be perfect! If giving back to the community is more of your scene, have a click through our list of charitable gestures to see where you can lend a helping hand.

NYE events and New Years Day activities
New year's eve is the highlight of the social calendar in any city. luckily , Cape town has catered for every taste in its extensive NYE celebrations. If it's a sit down dinner, street party or roof top bash, rest assured your New Year's Eve celebrations will be an experience of a lifetime.
Although 1 January is typically seen as a day of rest, for those capitalizing on this public holiday, check out our overview on great spots in and around Cape Town open for your enjoyment.

Places to stay and things to do
If you're looking for a quick getaway in Cape Town over the festive season, visit our comprehensive accommodation section and browse through a list of recommended hotels and lodges. If it’s a day trip you’re after, have a look at some of the fantastic day trips and tours available in the city and its surroundings that you can enjoy with the whole family. If you feel like good food and wine, there are some great wine farms and restaurants to try out, and if you’re up for a party, nightlife in Cape Town would be the perfect guide for a night out on the town. If none of the aforementioned tickles your fancy, then check out our bucket list of things to do in the Mother City.

Where to spend your hard earned cash
If you’re in need of some retail therapy, then have a look at our pick of Cape Town shops, or browse one of the many Christmas markets. If you’re struggling to decide on what presents to give this year, then have a look at our pick of unique and locally made gifts or our Cape Town inspired gift list. channel your inner Jamie or Nigella and cook or bake something delicious for friends and family this festive season.

Make the most of the good weather and take a scenic hike, throw caution to the wind and do something extreme or get a feel for Mzansi culture with a tour of the township.
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Cape Town Events Calendar
December 2025
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visit knysna 5Knysna, but not the Knysna you think

Locals help us uncover the hidden treasures of this Garden Route gem

Filini interiorFilini at Radisson Cape Town Foreshore

Tiramisu martinis, lasagne crocchetta and more

Drumstruck 2025 Cape Town’s top African drumming ...

A layered story of South Africa’s musical traditions

Table Mountain 2025 photoshopWhat locals don’t know about Table ...

Cape Town’s highest bar (no ticket needed), free tours + more

Harringtons Cocktail Lounge District SixFridays at East City's Harrington Street

Bar hop in one building, from happy hour to live music

Spier 21 reasons 1Things to do at Spier Wine Farm in ...

Everything you never knew about Spier unpacked by us

DJazz nights at Dutchies by Grotto Beach

6pm to 8pm every last Friday of the month

Char'd tasting 2025Rum, brandy & gin tastings with your ...

Unusual cuts prepped in-house and a curious gin atomiser

norval foundation 11Norval Foundation, the art museum with ...

Unmissable summer exhibitions, picnics amongst the sculptures, & more

Symmetry Fest Thailand's full moon party comes to ...

3 days with top DJs, laser shows, and poolside fun

Two Oceans Aquarium clean up Two Oceans Aquarium's free beach ...

Every 3rd Sat of the month in Milnerton, Muizenberg, or Blouberg

PT2The hidden seaside bistro on the ...

Inventive small plates best explored with a wine pairing

Milk on the Beach 2025Reasons to visit this beach-side family ...

DIY waffles, loaded hotdogs, poke bowls, right on the beach

LMTF Mandela and WinnieMeet 100 bronze life-size figures at ...

From famous heroes like Mandela to forgotten ones like Autshumato

shimansky rockwell 6Shimansky Diamond Experience at The ...

The diamond showroom where you can polish your own stone

cherry festival 1Everything you need to know about Ceres ...

Cherry products and picking, foam party & live music as the sun sets

fable Cocktail Bar 4Amazing cocktail & food specials at ...

Daily happy hour, free starters & welcome drinks, and more

Ficks dinners 2025 sunset Ficks, Hermanus’s tidal pool ...

Just as wonderful at night & during the cooler months

Only Specials CaféThe café creating space for ...

It’s hidden in Hermanus. Here’s how to find it

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