We’ve rounded up your best day and night out options

Where to this Dezemba? If you’re overwhelmed by all the options, follow our guide to the day and night outings to complete your social calendar.

Written by Tshiamo Seape 

Local reverence for Dezemba! (and the surrounding months) is well documented. December is in our DNA: it’s more than an occasion, and something akin to a national sport. But, as collective pastimes go, the festive season can be spoiled by the burden of choice. With so many options, you risk missing out on the real gems. Fear not, as we’re here to provide all the guidance you need – just mask up, make sure you’ve got your second dose, and grab your mates to explore the best of the season.

When in Jozi

Fuego Fridays

Kitchener’s Carvery Bar

1 Juta St, Braamfontein

3 December 2021

When it comes to OG Johannesburg establishments, it doesn’t get better than Kitcheners. With as much energy and vibes as heritage, this is one of the city’s most beloved venues. Fuego Friday’s (an institution in its own right) returns on the first Friday in December with a great lineup and a ticket special for those looking to pull up with the whole squad. Enjoy a night of curated yet unpretentious exploration of contemporary Deep House Music. 

Wonderland of Lights

Walter Sisulu Botanic Gardens

1 December 2021 – 4 January 2022

Starting off the season right and perfect for a family excursion, Wonderland of Lights promises to turn the already beautiful botanic gardens with over 100 light installations across 13 stages, including an 11-foot Gingerbread man and Nutcracker soldiers.

Sundays at the Living Room

20 Kruger St, Johannesburg

12 December 2021

Sundays at the Living Room is the perfect way to wind down the week. Take in the views of Johannesburg while soaking up the summer sun as you vibe out to the sounds of Aero Manyelo behind the decks.

Jameson Distillery Tour

Sandton City Rooftop, Rivonia Road, Sandton

12 November – 12 December 2021

Jameson transports you to Bow Street, Dublin, with an expertly curated distillery experience in the heart of Johannesburg. Guests can enjoy cocktail mixology classes, tasting experiences and an oyster bar, a pop-up merch store, live music, gourmet food, entertainment and more. With the music’s style and tempo altering depending on when in the week you visit, this pop-up is definitely worth a repeat visit.

When in Cape Town

Gold Bar Thursdays

Gold Bar, 70 Loop Street

Every Thursday

If you’re looking for a good time with a little more sophistication, look no further than Gold Bar. Patrons dressed to the nines, champagne and cocktails make for an elite clubbing experience. If you’re feeling a little nostalgic, then Thursday nights are perfect for you with a selection of the best of the 90s and 2000s beats to have you tearing up the dance floor.

Covid Relief Fun Comedy Tour

Fountains Hotel, 1 St Georges Mall, Cape Town 

3 December 2021

Have a laugh for a good cause as award-winning comedians Kurt Schoonraad, Angel Campey, Ismail Moses, Phil De Lange, and KG Mokgadi share the stage for the Covid Relief Comedy Tour. In addition to a night of entertainment, tickets to the show include a 3-course dinner.

Cradle to the Grave Exhibition

Bo-Kaap Cultural Hub, Boorhaanol, 26 Penz St, Greenpoint

11 December 2021

If a cultural excursion is more your speed, Learn about the lives of people who have lived in Bo-Kaap, a historic part of Cape Town next to the city centre, for generations. The exhibition focuses on Cape Muslim culture centred around the Bo-Kaap area and is part of the Bo-Kaap Cultural Hub. Try your hand at samoosa-making and sample authentic chilli bites and spiced tea.

When in Durban 

Comedy @ Robsons

Robsons, 72 Albert Terrace, Durban

Every Wednesday

Rory Petzer hosts this weekly comedy night alongside various comedians who will be gracing the stage and bringing you buckets of laughter. On December 2nd will be joined by Robby Collins and a few special guests. Tickets for the show include food and locally brewed beer.

Smoking Dragon Festival 

Northern Drakensberg

31 December 2021 – 2 January 2022

Smoking Dragon returns for its 12th year, bringing a reputation for an unforgettable experience and a stunning location. ​Having curated various musical genres, the festival promises to bring together a diverse and exciting audience. Jack Parow to Simphiwe Dana grace the live stage along with a fantastic array of other indie-folk, maskandi, jazz, hip hop and afro-fusion artists. This is not to be missed.