Cape Town’s ultimate summer story is at the V&A Waterfront
As the dust settles around ongoing major infrastructure upgrades and new developments, this festive season, the V&A Waterfront transforms into a living gallery of South African creativity where visitors will feel, share and live the spirit of summer.
“Our summer festive period is a time that families come to connect, celebrate and create memories at the Waterfront with its perfect backdrop, from seagulls, salty air and sightseeing boats to the dramatic “tablecloth” over Table Mountain, to restaurants, shopping and busker performances.”
“Even more exciting to look forward to is our new home for Oranjezicht Farm Market, rated amongst the top 10 farmers markets in the world, and the reopening of InterContinental Table Bay Cape Town after a R1bn refurbishment achieved in record time. We’ve also welcomed over 20 new retail stores, revamped and refreshed more, to complement our award-winning restaurants and eateries.” Says David Green, CEO at the V&A Waterfront.
Over the next few weeks, holidaymakers can expect fun and exciting surprise and delight moments across a neighbourhood buzzing with freshness and vibrancy.
What’s new
- Oranjezicht City Farm Market finds new home in a custom-designed timber barn with panoramic views of Robben Island.
- The InterContinental Table Bay Cape Town opens its doors to welcome guests to its elegantly designed rooms and suites and four distinctive dining venues including a new restaurant, Le Bistrot de JAN by Michelin-starred chef Jan Hendrik.
- Coffee lovers can now enjoy the newly refreshed Mugg & Bean…arguably now presenting as the best in the country, and Woolworth’s W Café restaurant, with new harbour views.
- Ladurée brings its famous luxury pastries, especially its macaroons for classic French sophistication.
Music, dance and a spectacular end to the year
Families can expect entertainment and fun activities across the neighbourhood,:
- From 13th – 24th of December, families and kids are invited to meet Santa and his Elves at Centre Court, opposite H&M, where they can share their festive wishes and capture memorable photo moments.
- Over at the Silo District, classic car lovers will enjoy a nostalgic display of vintage beauties from the ’50s, ’60s, ’70s and beyond — a treat for anyone who appreciates timeless design.
- Silo Concert Series fill the evenings with live music under the stars, free for all to enjoy. Grab some friends, pack a picnic blanket and settle in outside Zeitz MOCAA at 7pm on 5th of December, 2nd of January, and 6th of February to sounds of Ami Faku, Robin Auld & Wendy Oldfield, Hatchetman, Yoav & Jabulile Majola, and James Stewart & John Ellis.
- Naledi’s Book of Magic, in collaboration with the College of Magic, kicks off on 13th of December to take kids of all ages on a fantastical journey through music, magic, dance. It’s a wholesome, feel-good theatre show perfect for the whole family.
To close out the year, the Waterfront hosts the city’s biggest musical line-up and party with its New Years Eve concert, hosting performances by award-winning favourites Zoe Modiga, GoodLuck, DJ Shezzy K and others. The crossover into the new year will feature a spectacular five-minute fireworks display lighting up the night sky. It’s the ultimate way to welcome 2026 — surrounded by family, music and amazing gees throughout the neighbourhood.
Joy From Africa to the World, a celebration of African art, craft and heritage
Among the must-see attractions is the annual “Joy from Africa to the World” installations throughout the Waterfront neighbourhood. Each magnificent installation has been thoughtfully designed using recycled materials, celebrating sustainability and the region’s distinctive artistry. An exciting addition this year will be a new installation called Rockpoolers near Woolworths, which will be donned with ‘Shellegance’, inspired by Cape Town’s coastal beauty, this piece is created by local artist Lucie de Moyencourt, in collaboration with Quazi Designs, Bishop Tarambawamwe, and Ashanti Design.
“Every year around this time, our neighbourhood looks forward to welcoming millions of local and international visitors. Our focus is always on creating an atmosphere that is vibrant, welcoming, and rich with experiences for everyone to enjoy,” says Donald Kau, Head of PR & Communications at the V&A Waterfront.
“Cape Town continues to be recognised globally as a must-visit destination, and at the V&A Waterfront we’re proud to contribute to that with our diverse offering of restaurants, new retail, and memorable experiences. We want every guest to leave feeling inspired, enriched, and excited to return to Africa’s most loved destination,” Kau adds.
Plan your visit and discover the full programme at: https://summer.waterfront.co.za/
