And just like that, the holiday season is upon us! Here’s how to live it up in the Cape Town CBD.
History, Art, & Architecture Walking Tour
30 November
Kate Crane Briggs of Culture Connect mixes Cape Town landmarks and hidden gems in this city walking tour. You’ll visit the Trafalgar Place flower sellers, the old General Post Office, Adderley Street, Greenmarket Square and Long Street, while taking in a mix of colonial and contemporary architectural styles. There’s art on every corner, from new murals to 19th century statues and figurative architectural details. This two-hour tour is a hit with both locals and visitors, making for a rich experience all round. Where possible, Kate will introduce the people you meet along the way.
Where: Start at the Desmond & Leah Tutu Legacy Foundation, Buitenkant St
Time: 10h00-12h00
Cost: R400
cultureconnectsa.com/upcoming-tour/city-walk-history-art-and-architecture-2/
Festive Lights Switch-on
1 December
Don't miss this great Cape Town occasion when the Christmas lights are switched on in Adderley Street! This iconic event takes place on Sunday 1 December, with a concert on the Grand Parade (which starts at 16h00) featuring a host of exciting artists preceding the switch-on at 20h45. Chart-toppers Mörda and Mafikizolo_Africa, reggae legends Dr. Victor & The Rasta Rebels, and OUMA SARIE will be part of the line-up performing at the concert. Expect a night filled with diverse performances, from the crowd-pleasing 3 TONS OF FUN to Wynand and Cheree Strydom, Blackbyrd, and the Old Gentleman Dancers. Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis says the Festive Lights Switch-On “is our chance to come together, acknowledge the year behind us and celebrate what is to come”.
Here is information on the road closures: https://bit.ly/4i3sR2C
Playtopia
6-7 December
Dubbed “a festival for creators”, Playtopia is the annual Africa Indie games and immersive arts festival and conference. Founded in 2018, it’s a gathering of global creators and players. Expect a wide variety of talks on the indie game industry, the creative process and technical know-how of game development at 2024 Playtopia. There’ll be an impressive line-up of speakers (including Deon van Heerden, Andrew Putter, Fey Vercuiel, Eben Schutte, Kyle Jantjies, Xalavier Nelson Jr and Rodwin Malinga) and exhibitors from gaming companies around the world. With talks entitled “Behind the scenes of a playful installation artist”, “Fantastic, raucous, beautiful things – exhibiting alt.ctrl and neo-arcades in social spaces”, “ The Power of Paintings”, and “Play for Adults”, and panel discussions on inclusivity in game development, expect some interesting ideas to emerge at this two-day event.
Where: District Six Homecoming Centre, cnr Buitenkant & Calendon Sts
Time: 09h00-18h00 on Day 1; 09h00-21h00 on Day 2
Cost: From R250 via Quicket
https://playtopiafestival.co.za/about/
Phillip Dikotla Live [Live]
12-14 December
His shows are “raw and unfiltered” as he finds the humour in the “uncomfortable, hidden, and often ignored, truth of our daily life”. Stand-up comedian (and actor) Phillip Dikotla is coming to Cape Town and bringing his brilliant brand of comedy to the stage. Don’t miss this entertaining one-man show.
Where: District Six Homecoming Centre Star Theatre, cnr Buitenkant & Calendon Sts
Time: 19h00
Cost: R250
https://www.homecomingcentre.co.za/events
Western Cape Archives Behind-the-Scenes Tour
14 January
This Culture Connect tour of the treasure trove that is the Western Cape Archives is presented by Helen Joannides, who heads up public programmes and outreach at the institution. Here you’ll find documents that go back to the mid-1600s. Fascinating stuff! Says Kate Crane Biggs of Culture Connect: “There are huge holdings in the archive, including original documents from the Dutch East India Company, complete with the signatures of leadings VOC figures, notably Jan van Riebeeck. The tour includes a visit to the so-called dark room where key documents are being digitalised, as well as the Conservation Section, where Mary Minicka, Head of Preservation, will show us what she and her colleagues are working on and why.” The tour will be followed by a brief presentation on how best to use this phenomenal resource, which is free.
Where: Western Cape Archive
Time: 10h00-12h00
Cost: R400 (R300 if paying before 4 January)
Book: kate@cultureconnectsa.com or WhatsApp 072 377 8014
https://cultureconnectsa.com/upcoming-tour/western-cape-archives-behind-the-scenes-and-archive-research/
My Fair Lady
From 12 December 2024 to 12 January 2025
Book now for this superb production of the Lerner and Loewe musical theatre masterpiece, My Fair Lady, produced by Pieter Toerien with Cape Town Opera. Dubbed the world’s most loved musical, expect the timeless songs including “I Could Have Danced All Night”, “Get Me To The Church on Time”, “Show Me” and “The Rain in Spain”. Directed by Steven Stead and choreographed by Duane Alexander. The legendary original production won 6 Tony Awards including Best Musical and ran for 2 717 performances, making it the longest-running musical in Broadway history. The cast will be announced soon.
Where: Artscape Theatre Centre, D.F. Malan St
Cost: R140-R580
https://www.artscape.co.za/event/my-fair-lady-cpt/
The Nutcracker
13-29 December
This enchanting Christmas ballet takes to the stage as Cape Town City Ballet perform Veronica Paeper’s production of a timeless classic. The ballet tells the story of a young girl, Clara, who received a beautiful nutcracker doll as a gift on Christmas Eve. Her jealous brother Fritz breaks it and later that night, in her dreams, the nutcracker turns into a prince who takes her to the Land of Snow where she meets the Sugar Plum Fairy. Set to the music of Tchaikovsky, this perfect production will delight young and old. The Sugar Plum Fairy Parade takes place at 12h00 on 24 December.
Where: Artscape Theatre Centre, D.F. Malan St
Cost: R160-R400
https://capetowncityballet.org.za/
The Addams Family – The Musical
From 14 December
MotherCity Theatre Productions presents the professional South African premiere of The Addams Family The Musical, a comic feast with appeal for children and adults alike. Whether you love the comic books, the movies, or the “Wednesday” TV series, you’re in for a theatrical treat! Featuring a talented cast of well-known South African actors, this spooky, wickedly funny show is perfect for all ages. When the “princess of darkness”, Wednesday, falls in love with a “normal” boy, Lucas, the Addams family invites him and his parents for dinner … mayhem, dark humour and hilarity abound.
Where: District Six Homecoming Centre Star Theatre, cnr Buitenkant & Caledon Sts
Cost: R350-R580
www.homecomingcentre.co.za
Loyiso Gola Live
20 December-4 January
Let popular stand-up comic Loyiso Golo take you through the highs and lows of 2024. He promises laughs by the bellyful. No children under the age of 13 allowed.
Where: District Six Homecoming Centre Star Theatre, cnr Buitenkant & Caledon Sts
Time: 20h00
Cost: R255
https://www.homecomingcentre.co.za/events
Ndlovu Youth Choir
30 January-2 February
Something of a national treasure, this beloved Mzansi choir returns to Cape Town for six performances over New Year. The renowned choristers will be singing a new repertoire of numbers, including the iconic “Bohemian Rhapsody”, which will be infused with an African flavour. The choir is set to make history with a performance of “What a Wonderful World”, originally made famous by jazz legend Louis Armstrong, aka Satchmo. Using sign language and low-frequency bass sounds, this much-loved song has been adapted for members of the deaf community. Don’t miss this incredible show.
Where: Artscape Theatre Centre, D.F. Malan St
Time: Various performances
https://www.artscape.co.za/event/14512/
MARKET
Kuier@TheCastle
30 November and 14-15 December
This is the CBD’s biggest, family-friendly monthly market and creative event, during which the grounds of the historic Castle of Good Hope transform into an exciting gift market and creative experience. There are two special festive editions – don’t miss them! This is a unique shopping and entertainment experience for locals and tourists alike, filled with art, culture, creativity and community. Hosted by the Creative Design Institute in collaboration with the Castle, it strives to promote the extraordinarily talented Cape crafting and creative community. Expect live performers, food, workshops, and a vibrant mix of artisans.
Where: Castle of Good Hope (access the safe parking via Darling St)
Time: 10h00-16h00
Cost: R30 (adults), R15 (children and pensioners), free (kids under seven)
https://www.thecdi.org.za/page/Kuier
EXHIBITIONS
The Promise
7 November-10 January
The Promise is the 2024 Nando’s Creative Exchange (NCX) exhibition, in partnership with Spier Arts Trust, which showcases the work of four talented artists: Lionel Mbayiwa, Rentia Retief, Kenneth Ndumiso and Madeleine van Manen. The artists explored the question, “Where do we belong?”, each considering this theme through their own lens. The exhibition statement explains: “As four artists from very different backgrounds, our collective narrative is that of seeking a secure sense of belonging within the environments we find ourselves in. We observe with sensitivity and respect the past and the present while cherishing dreams for ourselves and others … seeking meaning through symbolism and distilled imagery.” NCX is the Nando’s Art Initiative’s flagship artist development programme, aimed at helping artists to develop their careers and offering them exhibition and mentoring opportunities. This year’s cohort were mentored by 2028 NCX programme alumnus, Nkosinathi Quwe.
Where: HUB Gallery, Union House, 25 Commercial St
Time: 09h00-16h00 Monday-Friday
https://houseunionblock.co.za/
https://spierartstrust.co.za/
Reclaimed
29 November-29 January
This exhibition, which opens on 29 November at 18h00, celebrates “the beauty of recycled and repurposed materials in art” and features 40 artworks selected from a diverse array of over 100 submissions. The interesting pieces are all created from natural and repurposed materials, including layered fabric collages, striking wood and metal sculptures, paper collages, and installations inspired by nature. Included in the line-up are works by acclaimed artists such as Siyabonga Mlambi, Dave Robertson, Jane Barnes, Karina van den Heever, Lauren Shantall, Susan Proctor Hume, and Jan Vingerhoets. Reclaimed, which reflects the artists’ deep commitment to sustainability, is a partnership between SPH Fine Art Fairs & Events and the Gorgeous George, which has been instrumental in bringing this vision to life. Says exhibition curator Proctor Hume: “The theme of Reclaimed reflects SPH’s longstanding commitment to sustainability, upcycling and recycling –whether through clothing, furniture or art materials. This exhibition is dedicated to artists who create with resourcefulness. It is also an homage to the conscientious ethos of Gorgeous George, a venue that stands out for its commitment to being earth-friendly and creatively vibrant.”
Where: Gorgeous George Hotel, 118 St Georges Mall
Time: 09h00-22h00 daily
Cost: Entrance is free
@sphfineartfairscapetown
Truth to Power: Desmond Tutu and the Churches
Ongoing
This is a new and exciting permanent exhibition celebrating key aspects of the legacy of the late Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu, housed at the former Old Granary building, now the Desmond & Leah Tutu Legacy Foundation. The was curated by the Apartheid Museum. Come and experience the journey of The Arch, one of South Africa’s greatest heroes.
Where: Desmond & Leah Tutu Legacy Foundation, Buitenkant St
Time: 09h30 – 15h30 (Tuesday to Saturday)
Cost: Free for children under 18; standard cost R100 with concessions available
www.tutu.org.za
The Names of Freedom: 1664-1848 From Slave to Citizen
Ongoing
Names of Freedom forms part of an exhibition exchange between Iziko Museums of South Africa, the Reunion Departmental Council (France) and the Villèle Historical Museum. It explores questions of identity through the history of slaves with a focus on how slaves were given their names just before and after emancipation and the meaning of this for their descendants who still have these names which were recorded in the historic registers. This is the first exchange of exhibitions between two former colonies and Indian Ocean Slave Trade repositories.
Where: Iziko Slave Lodge, top of Adderley St
Time: 09h00-17h00
https://www.iziko.org.za/exhibitions/the-names-of-freedom-1664-1848-from-slave-to-citizen/
REGULAR EVENTS
Knit & Natter Group
First Sunday of the month
Those who love knitting and crocheting will feel at home at the Knit & Natter Group. Members meet on the first Sunday of each month to knit and crochet while sharing wonderful stories. Women from all walks of life are welcome to join and bring yarn and needles, ideas, current projects as well as snacks.
Where: Artscape Theatre Centre (Marble Foyer), D.F. Malan St
When: 15h00-17h00
Cost: Free
www.artscape.co.za
Cape Town Craft Club
Every first and second Wednesday of the month
This bimonthly craft circle aims to get creative people together to make stuff in a laid-back, fun and judgment-free space. Absolutely everyone is welcome, from seasoned makers to those who haven’t picked up a crayon since childhood. Bring whatever you’re working on and join the circle whenever you feel like it.
Where: The Ladder on Bree
When: 18h00
https://capetowncraftclub.wordpress.com/craft-circle/
Sunday Jazz Sessions
Sundays
Openwine hosts Jazz Sessions by talented local artists every week. These are followed by lively Sunday Jazz Jam Sessions.
Where: Openwine, 72 Wale St
When: 17h00
Cost: Free
@openwine_za
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
@eastcitysessions
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 via Webtickets
https://sky-hiride.capetown/
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
Third House Poetry
Last Tuesday of the month
Third House is a community and open-mic poetry event to celebrate poetic talent. We facilitate a space in which poets can feel supported and inspired, share their work, exercise their creative voice, and network with other writers and creatives. Both established and novice poets are welcome.
Where: Selective Live, 189 Buitengracht St
When: 19h30
Cost: R50 at the door
@thirdhousepoetry
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: From 08h00 – 23h00
Cost: Free
@gorgeousgeorgecpt
Jazz Night at Amber on Bree
Enjoy the beautiful sounds of jazz at Amber on Bree on Thursday nights.
Where: Amber on Bree, 16 on Bree, Shop 1 & 2
When: 20h00 – 22h00
Cost: Free
www.amber-restaurants.co.za
Live Jazz at The Athletic Club & Social
Thursday to Saturday
The Athletic Club & Social hosts live jazz musicians from Wednesday to Saturday. 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
On Saturday mornings, Book Lounge staffers can be found reading wonderfully illustrated picture books from their beautiful and thoughtful children’s collection. There is a colouring activity sheet afterwards. All welcome, no RSVP required.
Where: Book Lounge, 71 Roeland St
When: 11h00
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