The V&A Waterfront is a wonderland of restaurants, shopping experiences, galleries, bars, and seaside attractions year-round. Over the festive season, it truly comes to life. Under the theme Joy from Africa to the World, over 130 local designers, crafters, makers and artisans have used recycled and upcycled materials to transform the V&A Waterfront into a wonderland that tells an African festive story of peace and kindness. So add the V&A Waterfront to your list for the summertime, and read on to find out what’s happening.
Updated 25 November 2019
Enjoy the local talent at the Ampitheatre
This summer, the V&A Waterfront presents Take the Stage at the Ampitheatre. These free shows take place throughout the festive season, and emerging South African superstars will take to the stage, providing exceptional musical performances that showcase the unprecedented talent in this country.
When: 16 and 23 November; 21 and 28 December; and 18 January; 19:00-21:00
Experience the Moët & Chandon Golden Tree Lighting Ceremony
Get into the festive spirit this November with this year’s Moët & Chandon Golden Tree Lighting Ceremony. The tree stands at four stories tall, and is made entirely from 1800 recycled Champagne bottles.The lights will be switched on on Thursday the 29th of November. .
When: Thursday 29 November
Enjoy free live music in the Silo District
Enjoy a free concert this festive season at the vibey Silo District. On Friday, 6 December, you can catch This Thing Called Swing. The 20-piece The Swinging All Stars Big Band will bring those 30s and 40s beats no feet will be able to resist. Bring your dancing shoes!
When: Friday 6 December; 19:00
Take the kids to the Kids Christmas Show
Meet Zoemba the rhino and Jelly, his ellie sidekick as they get up to all sorts of mischief that’ll have little ones singing and playing fun festive games! Santa Clause also pays Zoemba and Jelly a visit to spread joy and take pictures with the little ones. Think colouring-in competitions, sing-alongs, face painting, bauble-making with Wola Nani and more!
When: 13-24 December; 11:30, 13:30 and 15:30
Experience the magic of a V&A Waterfront NYE
The sun will set, and the magic will begin! Expect an immersive wonderland of glowing colours as magical light installations come to life, illuminating the buildings and trees, with an integrated soundtrack to tell a story that celebrates our community. The famous fireworks will follow, of course!
When: 31 December; 18:00-00:00
Meet Mother Earth and The Guardian of Joy at the Summer Palace
Bring the whole family to the Centre Court at Victoria Wharf shopping centre this December. Kids can explore a magical Summer Palace where they will be welcomed by Mother Earth and the Guardian of Joy – keeper of peace and kindness. The palace is also home to enchanting beaded creatures. They have come from far and wide to visit for the holidays and they can’t wait to meet you!
When: 1–24 December; 10:00-18:00
See an open air movie
The Galileo Open Air Cinema makes for an unforgettable experience. Set up with blankets and backrests under the stars at Battery Park to enjoy films from all genres. You’re welcome to bring your own drinks and snacks, but gourmet food trucks and drink stalls are on site if you’d prefer.
When: Every fourth Friday between October 2019 and April 2020
Let your imagination soar with the College of Magic
Enjoy free magic shows at the Amphitheatre this January. The family-friendly shows will have you asking ‘how did they do that?’
When: 2-7 January 2020; 15:30-16:15
Dance ’til you drop at the Puesta Del Sol Concert
January’s free silo concert features salsa and seductive tango tunes to add extra heat to a sultry summer night. This journey through Latin music takes listeners through traditional Brazilian folk music, Argentinean tango and Cuban salsa. There’ll be a dancefloor… of course.
When: 3 January; 19:00
Give the gift that keeps giving
Even if you can’t be there yourself this festive season, give the gift of festive joy to your friends and family. The ever-popular V&A Waterfront Gift Cards are now available online. There are also included Experience Vouchers, a perfect gift to spoil your best friend, significant other or family. Activities range from Artjamming to Stand-Up Paddling on the canal, and helicopter rides to scenic boat cruises, diving with the seals or gin tasting at Radisson RED!
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