Marchelle Abrahams

By the time you read this, you’re probably planning your Christmas Day lunch. If not, then you should at least be thinking about it, right? No? Procrastination is not going to get that table booked.  And because Cape Town is tourist-central every festive season, time is not on your side.  Depending on your mood and budget, Time Out has curated a list of spots around the Mother City to enjoy a memorable Christmas lunch, ranging from buffet-style to the very top-notch experiences.   Why go mediocre when you can spend all your money on yourself? Cape Town is home to award-winning restaurants. So take advantage of it!  And of course, we haven’t forgotten about the plant-based fans. Thankfully, restaurants are catering to environmentally conscious tastes.    Time Out Tip: Besides MIKO, other eateries are extending their culinary prowess with vegan dishes. And they’re pretty decent as well. No “swap out this for this” options.  

Many associate high tea with aristocrats and royalty. But here’s a little braai broodjie morsel for you. You’re right to assume it has its roots in 19th-century Britain. What you might not know is that high tea was first thought up by the working class.  The modern version of supper, these hardworking men and women would have a substantial evening meal after a long day’s work. They’d eat at a high dining table, unlike the rich folks who preferred a “low tea,” a social affair served at low chairs and low tables. And here we thought high tea was all about sipping from a porcelain teacup with your right pinky finger pointed out.  If you fancy a cuppa, Time Out is serving the tea (piping hot) on the best high tea spots in Cape Town, high brows and higher dining tables not included.

I read an article the other day about how generations born during the boom of the Internet era will never experience the simple pleasures of childhood. It’s knocking on a friend’s door when wanting to play or waiting for the street lights to turn on, your cue that it’s time to go home. For me, Sundays were the best. My sister and I knew that if we behaved ourselves, our father would take us for a Sunday afternoon drive after lunch. If the planets aligned, and Neptune was in retrograde, we’d all pack into our Nissan Skyline, my dad’s pride and joy.  Yho, the way he loved that car! Most of us grew up looking forward to Sunday drives, whether it was a trip around the Cape Peninsula or through the Huguenot Tunnel. Now you can make your own memories with Time Out’s 10 scenic drives for a lazy Sunday afternoon.

You know that song ‘Dilemma’ by K.Keed? She raps, “I feel like bad decisions”. This line basically describes what New Year’s Eve should be. Do people still do that? Use one night of the year to throw away their name and their inhibitions for the sake of spontaneity? I get it. I was once young, free, and regretting my life choices, and a New Year’s Eve party gave me carte blanche to do silly things without worrying about the consequences. Now, people think before they act, which is always a good thing. But if you plan on painting the town red, do so responsibly. In the meantime, here’s a list of New Year’s Eve events happening in and around Cape Town. As a country, we’ve gone through the most this year, so let’s show 2025 flames and send her off with a bang. Psst: Keep an eye on this list as we'll add more parties as they become available. 

Like music, art is subjective. Either you like it or you don’t.  I remember once visiting a wine farm in Franschhoek to do a story on hotel galleries, and came across a piece. I don’t recall the artist, but what stuck with me was the look in the woman’s eyes. It was jarring and evocative. The oil painting evoked feelings of longing and melancholy.  If tragic beauty could be immortalised in a painting, this would be the benchmark. The reality is that it was hidden beyond the reach of everyday people, part of a private collection only for the eyes of the wealthy and privileged. Many view the idea of visiting an art gallery as a walkabout at the Zeitz MOCAA or a collection at the South African National Gallery. Yet, there’s another world of independent galleries that spotlight artists and strive to make their work more accessible. Even established creatives are championing the next generation. Award-winning visual artist Blessing Ngobeni is an outspoken advocate for creating platforms and accessibility to art. This is a man who took his lived experience, having spent several years behind bars, and used it as the match to light the spark. His art mirrors society: the light and the dark. For Ngobeni, making art accessible is important, and he adds that even dealers and galleries are open to discussing payment terms. “We don’t mind because if we don’t do that, we don’t participate in changing the narrative of ownership of art.” You don’t need to be an avid art lover to appreciate i

My childhood summers consisted of three drinks: metallic-tasting water straight from the tap, Sparletta, and tea. Yet, nothing beats the cold, refreshing taste of Oros aan-maak (premix) drink as it hits the back of your throat. Sweet and sour intertwined in a marriage of convenience. Throw in a few ice cubes, and you’ve got the mocktail equivalent of the Screwdriver. Nothing compared to it until I made the mango lassi’s acquaintance. The sun was a big, bright, shiny disk in the sky. I was hot, agitated, and heavily pregnant. Not an Oros in sight. My husband returned to our stuffy one-bedroom flat, bearing a gift. One sip and I was a gone girl.  Fresh mango pulp, yogurt, honey, cardamom, and crushed ice. The combination is really the girl she thinks she is. The drink has its origins in the Punjab region of India and dates back to around 1000 BC, according to foodie blog Classic Indian. While most of us enjoy it as a summer drink, mango lassi was initially used as a digestive aid. How’s that for your Chappies installment of “Did you know…” While the rest of the globe raves about matcha this and matcha that, nothing trumps a fresh mango lassi. For those who prefer their drinks without viral hype, we’ve curated a list of lesser-known cafes and food joints that serve the authentic Indian drink as we head into summer.

Can you feel it? That gees in the air? Summer is creeping in, and if you’ve played your cards right, you’ve probably already managed to sneak in a beach day (or two). We try to stay humble, we really do, but let’s be honest: when it comes to enjoying the festive season, is there anywhere better than Cape Town? (Spoiler: there isn’t. And no, we’re not taking feedback at this time.) From sunrise strolls along Muizenberg Beach to golden hour sundowners in Camps Bay, the Mother City really knows how to do summer right. As the days get longer, the vibes get lighter, and everyone collectively remembers what joy feels like, so we’ve rounded up the very best summer festivals happening in and around Cape Town. If enjoying a picnic with a drink in hand while local artists take the stage is more of your vibe, check out the full Kirstenbosch Summer Sunset Concerts line-up! TIME OUT RECOMMENDS: 😋 The best restaurants in Cape Town🏨 The best hotels in Cape Town🍳 The best breakfast and brunch spots in Cape Town🍷 The best wine farms in and around Cape Town🍕 The best pizza in Cape Town📍 The best things to do in Cape Town Sign up to Time Out Cape Town's free newsletter for expert recommendations on new things to do, see, eat and drink in the Mother City. You can also follow Time Out Cape Town on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok! Time Out makes a small commission from the affiliate links included in this article. These links have no influence on our editorial content, but they do allow u

Tokyo has its karaoke bars. Athens has its taverns. Cape Town has First Thursdays. What started as a free monthly initiative to encourage locals to visit art galleries and cultural centres after dark has now morphed into an institution of sorts. Inspired by similar events in London, co-founders Gareth Pearson and Michael Tymbios wanted to put a unique spin on the event. In a 2015 post on Medium, Pearson said that the premise behind the concept was for art galleries and other cultural attractions within a walkable area to stay open late on the first Thursday of every month. The duo explained: “The very first edition in November 2012 included just six spots on the map, one being a little pop-up exhibition we threw together in an empty retail space.” These days, First Thursdays is a whole lot more than walking Bree Street. It’s the infectious spirit of a city that plays hard. How about injecting excitement into the work week with Time Out Cape Town’s ultimate guide to First Thursdays, aka Fake Friday in Cape Town? Sign up to Time Out Cape Town's free newsletter for expert recommendations on new things to do, see, eat and drink in the Mother City. You can also follow Time Out Cape Town on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok! TIME OUT RECOMMENDS: 😋 The best restaurants in Cape Town🏨 The best hotels in Cape Town🍳 The best breakfast and brunch spots in Cape Town🍷 The best wine farms in and around Cape Town🍕 The best pizza in Cape Town📍 The best things to do in Cape Town

How is it already almost mid-January? How is it 2026? A few more days, and the kids are back at school, you’re back to being plugged into the Matrix, and life continues.  Thankfully, the weekend gives us respite from the drag just for a little while. And yes, I know it’s DRY January, so I’ve comped a few free events. Hello, Cape Town Jazzathon. You’re welcome! CBD Sewing Workshop with The Cape Town Summer House Saturday, 10 January, 10am - 2pm Venue: Vansterdam Studios, 50 Buitenkant St Cost: From R400, bookings via Quicket January is the longest month of the year. Payday feels like a lifetime away. I bet the hustle switch in your brain is turned up. How about joining a sewing workshop? The hands-on session will teach you the essential techniques to take your work from homemade to handcrafted. And who knows? You could be the next Gavin Rajah.   Collab Media, Unsplash   Thandiwe Nqanda ... Jazz & Poetry Offering Saturday, 10 January, 8pm - 10pm Venue: The Athletic Club & Social, 35 Buitengracht St Cost: From R250, bookings via Quicket Performance poet and author Thandiwe Nqanda has a special gift, one she’ll share with an intimate audience at The Athletic Club & Social. This woman is a tour de force and not afraid to stand in her truth. You’re doing yourself a disservice if you don’t see her perform at least once.    Athletics Club Social   Argentinian Tango   Sunday, 11 January, 4:30pm – 7:30pm Venue: Time Out Market Cape Town Cost: Free. Reserve your seat via the T

Now that we’ve gotten New Year’s Eve out of the way, it’s back to normal programming. It doesn’t mean the fun stops; far from it. Milk & Cookies comes to Kenilworth Racetrack on Saturday and will be co-headlined by Gunna and Majid Jordan. For family-friendly entertainment, Tweede Nuwe Jaar is an institution on the Cape Town events calendar. Bring your blankets, your gazebos, and KFC buckets. The wind usually howls this time of year, so leave the peak caps at home. And if you’re planning on this year being the one you realign your chakras and become one with nature, Intaka Island has something special in store for outdoor enthusiasts. CBD Cape Town Minstrel CarnivalMonday 5 January - (initially scheduled for Friday, 2 January) Venue: Starts in District Six, Cape Town Cost: Free Tweede Nuwe Jaar is always a jol in the Mother City. While many regret their bad decisions following a banger New Year’s Eve, others claim their spots early on the streets of the CBD. The annual event is a colourful parade celebrating our culture and heritage. Dating back to the early years of colonisation and slavery in the Cape, Minstrel troupes compete to be the best performers.  SEE: New Route planned for Cape Town 2026 Minstrel March Juergen Hoffmann NORTHFAB AgencyPeople celebrating at Kaapse Klopse carnival Puff and Paint Hush CPT Saturday, 3 January, 2pm - 5pm Venue: Hush CPT, 8 Dorman Street, Gardens Cost: From R100, bookings via Quicket Hush CPT will be hosting a chill event of painting,

Comedian Yaseen Barnes shared a photo on his Instagram Stories the other day showing a woman wrapped in a keffiyeh walking hand in hand with a man dressed in a Father Christmas suit. This basically sums up the festive season in the Mother City. We’re a city that celebrates our diversity and cultural differences, come Christmas, Eid, or Hanukkah. And that’s what I love the most about this piece of paradise. We embrace religious nuances with love and respect. To those celebrating, a joyful and merry Christmas. Now, back to our regular scheduled programme… get ready for a host of comedy and concerts to family-friendly fun, festivals and late-night jol sessions. Here’s what’s happening across Cape Town this weekend Friday, 26 to Sunday 28 December. CBD Multi Love: One Night in Texas Friday, 26 December, 3pm Venue: TEXAS, Albertus Street, District Six Cost: R80 - R150, bookings via Web Tickets Finding mainstream radio more meh than yay? You should pop in at TEXAS in District Six. From new beats to nostalgic sounds, you won’t be disappointed. Facebook: Multi LoveMulti Love: One Night in Texas Masood Boomgaard LIVE in Cape Town Friday, 26 December - Sunday, 28 December, 8pm to 9:30pm Venue: Protea Hotel Fire & Ice! Cape Town, New Church St, Tamboerskloof Cost: From R200, bookings via Quicket Masood Boomgaard has quite the resume. The first South African comedian to record a special programme titled My Father’s House from his home, Boomgaard’s star has risen ever since. Now you

  DHL Stormers diehard fans, are you ready for the ultimate showdown against the Emirates Lions on Saturday? Bring your loudest war cry and the gees because it’s going to be a fierce battle for championship glory.   Calling all party animals. The Cape Town festival circuit kicks off with the Love & Light Festival at the Ostrich Ranch. Everyday People also makes a welcome return. Hosted at Grand Africa Café & Beach, the event is “the world’s coolest day party.” Northern suburbs, either 2025 has been good to us, or the powers that be decided we deserve a lekker time as well. BONEY M comes to De Grendel Wine Estate, and Jeremy Loops will perform at Zevenwacht Wine Estate. There’s a catch; they’re both on at the same time, so pick your fighter wisely.  CBD   Emotions of the Sun Photographic Exhibition  Daily, 9am–5pm, 4–21 December 2025 Youngblood Gallery, 70 Bree Street, Cape Town Cost: R200 via Howler, including a glass of Veuve Clicquot Yellow Label *]:pointer-events-auto scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto" tabindex="-1" data-turn-id="request-WEB:aa85028b-9276-4258-90b4-b5101bfdb041-31" data-testid="conversation-turn-4" data-scroll-anchor="true" data-turn="assistant"> Veuve Clicquot’s Emotions of the Sun exhibition brings a burst of warmth to Cape Town this December, transforming Youngblood Gallery into a celebration of light, emotion and global storytelling through photography, with works by Magnum photographers from aroun

O Holy Night. The stars are brightly shining. The Cape Town Vocal Ensemble, CTO House Soloists, and VOX Cape Town are sure to get you in a festive mood this weekend. While some tannies are wrapping their Christmas cakes upside down to get that lekker brandy soak before the 25th, the rest of us are outcha minding our business and staying hydrated. Yes, it’s the final haul before we reach the end of the year, kids. Make the most of it on Friday evening by treating the little ones to a special ballet performance of Alice in Wonderland at the Artscape Theatre.  Ease into Saturday at Kuier@TheCastle for the chill vibes. Get in your Christmas shopping while you’re at it. End things off in the Cape Winelands at A Summer Dream at Spier, where a world of fantasy awaits.  And of course, the upcoming public holiday is an excuse to party. Besides, we’re entering KeDezemba mode. So, in the spirit of reconciliation, we’ve also lined up events happening in and around the Mother City this Tuesday.  DON'T MISS: The full Kirstenbosch Summer Sunset Concerts 2025/26 line-up is here! This edition of Out and About is brought to you by Monster Audio Monster Audio CBD O Holy Night Friday, 12 December, 6pm Venue: St George’s Cathedral, 5 Wale St, Cape Town City Centre Cost: R150 - R180, bookings via Web Tickets Conducted by Jason Atherton with the Cape Town Vocal Ensemble, CTO House Soloists, and VOX Cape Town, O Holy Night is a premier event on the Mother City’s festival calendar. Instagram:

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 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.    Photograph: Michael Coghlan/Flickr   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

Greetings, earthlings. If you’re reading this, it means comet 3I/ATLAS hasn’t crashed into the Earth’s orbit and obliterated humankind. So much for conspiracy theorists getting that one wrong.  On the other hand, if it is the case, auf wiedersehen. See you in the next lifetime. But let’s go with a dash of optimism and that ‘ol Christmas feeling because this weekend we’re going full on ding dong merrily on high. Don't miss: Our Daily Cape Town Advent Calendar reveal! The annual Love and Light Christmas Fest will have you feeling all the feels. Cape Town City Hall also gets into the festive spirit with Christmas with Bach.  Show your support for our queens at Miss Drag South Africa. Talking about royalty, this year’s Muddy Princess event will be hosted at Sandringham Estate, Stellenbosch. Don’t forget to play nice, ladies! Shifting gears to indie gaming, the Playtopia Festival at the Homecoming Center showcases interactive gaming experiences and immersive art exhibitions. And then end the weekend with classic Afrikaans rock bangers, compliments of Karen Zoid and Francois van Coke. CBD The Love and Light Christmas Fest Friday, 5 December, 6pm Venue: St George’s Cathedral, 5 Wale St, Cape Town City Centre Cost: R100 - R200, bookings via Quicket The Heartsong Collective, the Cape Town Children’s Choir, and Usapho Creatives will fill St George’s Cathedral with festive favourites like Silent Night and Feliz Navidad for one night only. Presented by the Heartsong Collective, a porti

Welcome all to the last week of November. Yes, end-of-the-year fatigue is setting in, but we move. The good news is that ‘tis the season of giving. So expect a few freebies. Entrance to Surf Expo Africa at the CTICC is free this whole weekend. So is Kuier@TheCastle, an all-day family-friendly event at the Castle of Good Hope. And because Christmas is a heartbeat away, holiday markets are in full swing, including the annual Edgemead Christmas Market. Marc Lottering blesses us with his presence in Colleen The Musical at the Baxter Theatre, and the DStv KykNet Mitchell’s Plain Festival takes over Westridge Gardens. CBD Surf Expo Africa Friday, 28 November - Sunday, 30 November, 9am - 6pm Venue: Cape Town International Convention Centre, Foreshore Cost: From free, bookings via Quicket Surf Expo Africa is the premier event for surfing enthusiasts. A celebration of surf culture, attendees will be introduced to cutting-edge innovations, the latest surfboard designs, and apparel. ALSO READ: Where to catch the best waves in Cape Town Instagram: Surf Expo AfricaSurf Expo Africa on at the CTICC Best Day Out Saturday, 29 November, 11am Venue: The Cape Town Company’s Garden, Cape Town city centre Cost: R150 - R300, bookings via Web Tickets Best Day Out returns to a new venue, the Company Gardens. Get ready for a full day of music, food, and community. Families are welcome, especially the kiddos who get free entry (under 12). Mission for the Inner City, Hofbräu, and Hey Dude have par

This weekend is all about smooth jazz and paying tribute to musical greats. The Artscape Theatre hosts The Echoes of the Cape Doctor: Remembering Robbie Jansen on Friday. Robbie Jansen fans will be pressed not to miss it. And then, Asara Wine Estate has something special in store as Rumours of Fleetwood Mac Tribute takes to the stage on Saturday. BTW, this is something I just discovered, but did you know Cape Town has an alpaca farm? Specifically Wellington. Quenti Alpaca Farm produces alpaca fleece onsite, and guess what? Friends of Iziko will be visiting them this weekend. Think of it as a school excursion, but after hours. ALSO SEE: Cape Town favourite grabs spot on the World's Coolest Streets list CBD The Echoes of the Cape Doctor: Remembering Robbie Jansen Friday, 21 November, 7:30pm Venue: Artscape Theatre, Cape Town Cost: R180, bookings via Web Tickets When we think about local jazz icons, Robbie Jansen comes to mind. Born in Elsies River, the late Jansen never forgot his roots and paved the way for others after him. The Echoes of the Cape Doctor is a musical tribute honouring his legacy. Webtickets Summer Symphonies At The City Hall Saturday, 22 November, 7:30pm Venue: Cape Town City Hall, Darling St, Cape Town Cost: R190 - R450, bookings via Web Tickets Principal guest conductor Bernhard Gueller takes the reins in Gustav Mahler’s Symphony No.5. Known for its dramatic journey from mourning to triumph, the symphony features the famous opening funeral march. EyeE

Greetings in the name of Tyla and the Springboks flying the Mzansi flag. Not Mariah, though. I rebuke you and all things Sephora/Christmas-related. That’s a conversation for another time. On another note, this weekend is jam-packed with events catering to every taste. Mandisi Dyantyis is introducing fans to his new album at the District Six Homecoming Centre. That should be something to look forward to.  Another weekend, another Christmas market. This time it’s the TygerValley Festive Market. One of my personal favourites because there’s such a wide selection of handcrafted goods to choose from, you’re bound to find that one special gift. Oh, and the Gipsy Kings will be performing live at De Grendel Wine Estate. It’s about time the north gets some action. CBD Mandisi Dyantyis Intlambululo Album Launch Friday, 14 November to Sunday, 16 November, 8pm and 6pm Venue: The Star Theatre, District Six Homecoming Centre, Cape Town Cost: R325 to R500, bookings via Web Tickets Afro-soul-jazz artist Mandisi Dyantyis brings his unique sound to the Star Theatre with his seven-piece band. The intimate show will introduce Dyantyis fans to his new album, Intlambululo. The cherry on the cake? Most of the songs have never been performed in front of a live audience before. So you get first dibs. Facebook: Mandisi Dyantyis Fantasia Ft Tuneraider, Ethereal  Saturday, 15 November, 8pm - 4am Venue: Botanik, 54 Queen Victoria St, Cape Town Cost: From R250, bookings via Quicket The first chapter

Celebrated artist Irma Stern made headlines for two distinct reasons last week. Firstly, her 1946 portrait titled ‘Malay’ (Black Headdress) was sold for R21.7 million at a Strauss & Co. auction.  Pioneering modernist expressionist painting in South Africa, Stern was considered one of the country’s most valuable artists. The sale of the rare artwork sets a new African record for a Stern portrait of a female sitter. View this post on Instagram A post shared by YourLuxury Africa (@yourluxury_africa) But as the art world celebrated the rousing legacy of the North-West born doyen, the museum founded in her honour announced its closure on Friday, 31 October 2025.  “For 56 years, the museum has been a cherished cultural landmark, welcoming generations of members of the UCT community as well as local and international visitors from around the world to experience the vibrant artistry of one of South Africa’s most celebrated painters.  “Now, in the spirit of Irma Stern’s own adventurous nature, the collection will be embarking on a new journey,” said an official statement. A vibrant and inclusive space on Cape Town’s art scene, the Irma Stern Museum was Stern’s former home and studio.  Jointly managed and operated by the University of Cape Town (UCT) and the Irma Stern Trust, the museum housed the ‘Irma Stern Trust Collection’, an eclectic assortment of artefacts and furniture she collected over the years.  That collaboration now seems to be in question as bot

If you haven’t noticed by now, it’s beginning to feel a lot like Christmas. Shops are blasting Boney M on repeat, and Michael Bublé is planning his next holiday, compliments of the millions of Spotify streams. Yep, the Mother City is slowly gearing up to welcome tourists with a local festive flourish. Soon, we’ll be knee-deep in tinsel and those fancy crackers that went to private school (Yes, Woolies, we’re looking at you). And you know the second Miss Mariah Carey sings, “It’s time!” the festive season has officially begun. While waiting for Mariah’s whale song, you can indulge in a rusk and cookie tasting at Tannie Evita’s or start your Christmas gift shopping at the Baxter Theatre’s Gift Fair. CBD Confections x Collections Thursday 6 November to Saturday 8 November Venue: Mount Nelson Hotel, Gardens, Cape Town Cost: R995, bookings via Dineplan CONFECTIONS x COLLECTIONS is an annual event spotlighting slow African fashion. Held on the grounds of Mount Nelson, a Belmond Hotel, and curated by sustainability-focused platform, Twyg, the show embraces contemporary African luxury. Described as a bespoke culinary experience, CxC reimagines the hotel’s iconic Afternoon Tea. Photograph: Mount Nelson, a Belmond Hotel Swing With The King Friday, 7 November, 7:30pm Venue: Artscape, Opera House, Cape Town Cost: R250, bookings via Web Tickets A jazz concert with a gospel twist, Swing With The King brings big band fever, Cape Ghoema, and orchestral arrangements to the Artscape stag