Reconciliation Day: Cape Town things to do

December 16 has a special place on South Africa’s public holiday calendar. This year, the day falls on a Tuesday, and if you played your long weekend cards right, you’re probably enjoying the fruits of your mathematical prowess.

A moment to pause and reflect on our country’s apartheid past and liberation struggle, the Day of Reconciliation is an opportunity to explore Cape Town’s cultural hubs and heritage landmarks.

Fun Fact: Did you know Cape Town ranks as one of the top cultural hubs in the world. 

And of course, any public holiday is an excuse to party. Besides, we’re entering KeDezemba mode. So, in the spirit of reconciliation, we’ve lined up events happening in and around the Mother City this Tuesday. 

SEE: Out and About in Cape Town: Things to do this weekend

This special edition of Out and About is brought to you by Monster Audio

Visit an Iziko Museum

Visitors get free entry to selected Iziko Museums every Reconciliation Day. It’s a chance to teach the little ones about our history in a fun, interactive, and creative way.

Free entrance includes Bo-Kaap, Slave Lodge, South African Museum, and Old Town House. Groot Constantia, the Castle of Goodhope, and the Planetarium are excluded. 

Unity on the Square

Every year, without fail, Greenmarket Square comes alive on 16 December. The fifth edition of the concert will honour 50 years of Cape Town’s son, Loukmaan Adams.

For an entry fee of R50, patrons can look forward to good music, good vibes, and the spirit of community. Gates open at 3pm, and the event will run until 10pm. Bring along hats, sunblock, and camping chairs. 

There will be food trucks and a coffee bar. Bookings via Quicket. 

Cape Town Cocktail Week

The inaugural Cape Town Cocktail Week kicked off on 10 December and ends on Reconciliation Day.

Tickets start at R330, but you get more bang for your buck, including R50 cocktails. You’ll receive a wristband on entry, which will give you access to 40 venues across the CBD.

Unlike traditional drinks festivals, CTCW is a map-based cocktail safari. Festivalgoers are encouraged to explore the city via its cocktail offerings. For the real cocktail enthusiasts, there’ll be masterclasses and pop-ups. Book your ticket via Quicket.

Time Out Tip: Why not make it a food and drink experience? Add the Time Out Market Cape Town as a side quest on your cocktail safari map.  

READ: Local Intel: Leah van der Venter, founder of Cape Town Cocktail Week

Back to the Old House

Bringing together the DJs who helped shape Cape Town’s house music genre, Back to the Old House: The Sunflower Sessions is a day-to-night celebration of music, community, and culture.

Starting at noon and ending at 2am; no VIP section, no pretence, just old skool beats. The line-up includes Peter Abrahams, Jazza, Dino Moran, Craig De Sousa, Lady M, among others.

Tickets start at R150 and will be hosted at Maroon, 226 Long Street. 

Cooler Box Music Fest’ive Edition

Those who know, know. Cooler Box parties were a rite of passage for many Cape Town millennials. Now bigger and better, the Cooler Box Music Fest’ive Edition is an all-day event from noon to 8pm.

in Pinelands will be the scene of the crime. This is a family affair, so bring the young ones along, but not too young. Age restrictions still apply. Promising an amazing DJ lineup, don’t forget to stab out with your cooler box!

Tickets start at R149, no under-18s allowed.  

 ICYMI: Cape Town is Africa's best city for nightlife

Killarney Rallycross Family Fun Day

Father Christmas has a special surprise for the kiddies at Killarney International Raceway in Tableview.

From non-stop racing to kids’ activities, the day’s events kick off at 9am. Bring the whole family along for laughs and festive cheer. Children under 12 get free entry. Bookings via Web Tickets.