As the season to be jolly fast approaches, we start decking the halls with ‘boughs of holly’ and switching on the festive lights to ring in the season. Once the ambience is set, we sink into the holiday spirit with gifts, gatherings and gratitude for it all.
Also read: 6 local spots to buy your holiday presents this year
And what better way to embrace this festive spirit than carolling away with your loved ones by your side? – after all, it wouldn’t be Christmas without it.
Whether you’re a seasoned Christmas caroller or have yet to find your voice, here are some of the Western Cape’s most beloved Christmas carol events taking place this year:
Century City Carols in the Park
Back by popular demand, and just in time to welcome the coming festive season, Carols in the Park returns to Ratanga Park this weekend.
Round up your friends, family and the kids for an enchanting evening of picnics, sing-alongs, and a special appearance by Father Christmas, all set against the stunning backdrop of Table Mountain.
Amid Christmas carols, holiday cheer and fun activities for the little ones, there will be food stalls serving up a variety of delicious meals, snacks and refreshments. Please note that alcohol is not permitted and parking is cashless.
- Date: 1 December 2024
- Location: Ratanga Park, Century City
- Time: Picnics start and 6:30pm, with Carol singing running from 7:30pm to 8:30pm
- Tickets: Free entry (Parking available in P2 and P4 for R12)
U-Turn Christmas Market & Carols by Candlelight
Combine making a difference and spending time with your loved ones at U-Turn’s Christmas Market and Carols by Candlelight.
Set in their Living Roots Nursery, you can spend the afternoon browsing through little treasures at the many stalls or digging into a delightful treat. From organic produce to Christmas crafts, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
And for the main event, spend a candlelit evening singing along to some of your favourite Christmas carols.
- Date: 6 December 2024
- Location: Living Roots Nursery, Herschel Close, Claremont
- Time: 3pm to 10pm
- Tickets: Free tickets available online
Also read: 9 Christmas markets in Cape Town to visit this festive season
O Holy Night – A Classical Symphonic Christmas
Join the Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra, Cape Town Opera Chorus, Children’s Chorus, Soloists, Young Artists and Foundation Studio Singers, Vox Cape Town and St George’s Cathedral Choir in welcoming Christmas with some of the most beloved carols, conducted by Brandon Phillips with organist Grant Bräsler.
Sing along to ‘Hark the Herald Angels Sing’, ‘Silent Night’, ‘Adeste Fidelis’ and ‘Once in Royal David’s City’ and more.
- Date: 11 and 12 December 2024
- Location: St George’s Cathedral, Wale Street, City Centre
- Time: 6pm
- Tickets: R80 to R180 (kids under 4 enter free)
PSA: If you’re unable to make it to St George’s Cathedral, the Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra will be performing a free concert in the Artscape Chandelier Foyer at 1pm on 10 December.
Cape Point Vineyards Annual Carols by Candlelight
Join Cape Point Vineyards for an evening of holiday cheer, music and community spirit alongside a charming variety of market vendors offering delightful treats, unique gifts and holiday-themed goodies.
With Cape Point Vineyards wines and aromatic market food setting a delectably festive mood, the live performances by local talents Tarryn Lamb, Len Muller, IThemba Youth Choir and ALAS Academy form the cherry on top of what is set to be a memorable event.
Plus, your attendance and generous contributions will directly support MASI CORP, an NPO dedicated to uplifting education in Masiphumelele.
- Date: 12 December 2024
- Location: Cape Point Vineyards, Silvermine Road, Noordhoek
- Time: 4:30pm
- Tickets: R255
Steenberg Farm’s Annual Christmas Carols
Embrace the holiday spirit at Steenberg Farm’s annual Christmas Carols in the Constantia Valley. This cherished event, held under starlit skies, combines festive tunes with Steenberg’s award-winning wines and comforting seasonal cuisine.
This year features entertainer Kevin Abbott, who will bring festive melodies to life while you sing along to some of the most loved traditional carols, followed by Cape Town’s R&B/funk band Jeodhouse to keep your toes tapping and spirits high.
The South African Guide Dogs Association for the Blind and True North non-profit organisation will be present on the evening for donations. Don your favourite festive gear for a chance to win the best-dressed competition.
- Date: 12 and 13 December 2024
- Location: Steenberg Estate, Steenberg Road, Tokai
- Time: Gates open at 5pm and concert runs from 6pm to 9pm
- Tickets: R420 (adults) + R215 (kids under 12) for Lounge on the Lawn package | R1 100 (adults) + R360 (kids under 12) for Tryn’s Oak Terrace tabled seating and course-meal package
Also read: Cape Town restaurants serving Christmas lunch to suit every pocket
Cape Town Carols at Kirstenbosch
Spreading Christmas cheer in this picturesque setting for over 30 years, the Rotary Club of Kirstenbosch brings another edition of Cape Town Carols this December.
Grab a picnic blanket, pack your basket or opt for a bundle, round up your loved ones and enjoy your favourite sing-alongs, the age-old Christmas story and a chance to buy some Christmas goodies.
This year, Pick n Pay Smart Shopper members have an opportunity to purchase a ticket in a designated seating area, including a chair for added comfort.
- Date: 12, 13, 14 and 15 December 2024
- Location: Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden, Rhodes Drive, Newlands
- Time: Gates open at 6pm, Carols will run from approximately 7:15pm to 9:15pm
- Tickets: R175 (adults) + R125 (scholars) for general access | From R205 to R830 for picnic bundles
Hermanus Carols
The Rotary Club of Hermanus and Pam Golding Properties brings festive cheer to the coastal town this December.
As in previous years, the annual fundraising events will offer little ones the opportunity to meet Santa and partake in festive games at the Father Christmas & Kids Fun Fair. Thereafter, multi-talented saxophonist Debi Best sets the mood before the Nativity Pageant takes centre stage followed by the singing of carols.
All funds raised at the event will go towards the Rotary Club’s projects.
- Date: 17 December 2024
- Location: Attie Bishop Field of Hermanus Sports Club, above Hermanus High at Old Boys Club
- Time: Gates open at 6pm, with pre-carols entertainment starting at 6:30pm and Nativity Paegent at 8pm
- Tickets: R25 (kids 2-6 years) | R50 (scholar 6-18 years)| R100 (adult) | R250 (family package)
Also read:
Watch: Christmas comes early as domestic worker gets new car
