Picture: Instagram
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.
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.
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
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)
First published by Cape Town ETC
Also see: Durban in full festive mode after Mayor Cyril Xaba hosts Christmas lights activation | Bona Magazine