Lovingly known as the “Mother City”, the “Kaap”, or “iKapa”, Cape Town in South Africa is one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations – particularly during the festive season. The most apt description I’ve heard of a Christmas in Cape Town is simply “lazy, crazy, hazy days of summer”. With twilight only setting in after 8pm, this is the place where we swap snow, gluhwein, and log fires for white beach sands, wine, and wood-fire braais. Aside from long, relaxing days with picnics in the vineyards, basking in the sunshine, outdoor sunset concerts, and sundowners on the beach, here are a few events that make Christmas in Cape Town so unique and worthwhile.
Christmas Lights
The beginning of December always brings the excitement of the “switching on” ceremony, where streams of funky Christmas lights are lit up along Adderley Street. Along with traditional Christmas lights, you will see an increasing number of local African themes displayed. Only in Africa will you see meerkats and monkeys scurrying through nativity scenes!
Make an effort to visit the Malmesbury Christmas Light Festival in the Swartberg region, as well as the Somerset West Festival of Lights and night market along Main Road, Somerset West.
Christmas Markets
With the sweet smell of summer in the air, this is the perfect season to ditch shopping malls for market stalls. Whether indoors or outdoors, during the daytime or night, in the vineyards or along the city streets, the Cape has some fabulous markets with exclusive Christmas gift shopping.
Christmas Dining
If you’re on holiday in the Cape and are not spending Christmas at the home of extended family or close friends, you can still enjoy a traditional Christmas meal at any number of top-class restaurants. Check out Christmas Dining in the Cape for some ideas on where you can enjoy a gourmet festive feast.
Find Santa
Santa has been making several special appearances across the city. One of my favourite spots to see him is at the V&A Waterfront. Although you can have a professional photo with him, his friendly little helpers are kind enough to let you say hello and take your own photos.
Cape Town Minstrel Carnival
Finish up your festive holiday season with an outing to watch the spectacular “Kaapse Klopse” Minstrel Carnival. This annual street parade takes place on the 2 January, as thousands of marchers sing, dance, and play instruments from the Grand Parade to Green Point. The festival was originally introduced by Muslim slaves who would celebrate their only day off work for the whole year. Today, whole families join in the parade, dressed up in brightly coloured, shiny suits, with hats and sun umbrellas to match.
For a truly unrivalled Christmas experience, the Mother City is the place to be! Where are you spending this merry day?
Image 3 by tsn92 (flickr)
