Your ultimate December gig guide

Looking for good times and great vibes this summer? We’ve rounded up some of the best social events to attend in Cape Town, Durban and Johannesburg…

 

Written by: Lynette Botha

 

CAPE TOWN EVENTS

One Night Only with Simphiwe Dana
15 December

Simphiwe Dana, multi-award winning musician, activist and performer, closes the year with a motivational show at the Concert Hall at The Baxter Theatre in Cape Town.
The Baxter Theatre 

 

We House Sundays at Du Kloof Lodge, Paarl

16 December

Join this intimate 2-day gathering under the stars at Du Kloof Lodge in Paarl. Experience a weekend of aural pleasures with a day and night-time House Music showcase.
We House Sundays

 

 

Love and Light Music Festival

23-24 December

Immerse yourself in the ethereal sounds of Love and Light Music Festival, featuring international and local artists at various venues in Cape Town.
Love and Light Festival

 

DJ Black Coffee at Cabo Beach Club

23 December

Cape Town welcomes back the legendary DJ Black Coffee at Cabo Beach Club. Secure your party tickets and VIP table reservations for an unforgettable night.
Cabo Beach Club

 

 

Kirstenbosch Summer Sunset Concerts at Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens

23 December: Swing City

Get ready to swing into the holiday season with a captivating musical performance.

31 December: Jeremy Loops and the Congo Cowboys in a New Year’s Eve Special

Bid farewell to the year at Kirstenbosch with the dynamic Jeremy Loops and the Congo Cowboys.
Kirstenbosch Summer Sunset Concerts

 

Saintly Sunday Cape Town Takeover at Grand Beach

28 December 

Grand Beach hosts a stellar line-up, including Zakes Bantwini, Dlala Thukzin, Sun El Musician, and more for a soulful Sunday takeover. 
Grand Beach Café



Sun-El Musician & Friends – Cabo Beach Club

30 December

Welcome the new year with Sun-El Musician and an ensemble of talented friends at Cabo Beach Club.
Cabo Beach Club 

 

Alcazar NYE 2023: Faeirie Tale

31 December

Brought to you by Bazique Festival, Wolfkop Weekender, and Lucky Fish and taking place at Cape Town High School, expect to step into a spectacular playground for grown-ups at Alcazar with the theme ‘Faeirie Tale.’ Get ready for an art-immersive realm, featuring international headliners, local stars, and indoor dancefloors.
Alcazar

 

GENESIS New Year’s Eve at Grand Beach

31 December

The Genesis Experience: a New Year’s extravaganza with a beachside four-course dinner theatre, futuristic settings, and talented DJs ushering in the new year. Join for a joyful start to 2024 and a grand finale party.
Grand Beach Café

 

 

 

DURBAN EVENTS

KWA-Gogo Festival, Newtown

16-17 December 

Enjoy a daytime show featuring performances from DBN Gogo, Musa Keys, and more at Carfax, 39 Gwigwi Mrwebi Street, Newtown. Three stages will highlight different musical aspects influencing the culture and growth of South Africa.
KWA-Gogo Festival


Ballito Big Week 

22, 26, and 29 December

General access to all three Ballito Big Week events, including dance floors, bars, sponsor activation areas, food court, and relaxation areas. Experience the crescendo of the year in style at Ballito Big Week.
Ballito Big Week

 

 

 


Christmas Eve Dinner at The Pencil Club

24 December
Indulge in a specially prepared Christmas eve dinner at The Pencil Club, promising a gastronomic journey that blends tradition with innovation.
The Pencil Club

 

 

Connexion Festival

29 December to 2 January

Join the five-day celebration at the Amphitheatre Backpackers Lodge in the Northern Drakensberg. Connexion Festival promises a unique experience with music, nature, and community.
Connexion Festival



Ballito New Year’s Eve Featuring Goldfish

31 December

Celebrate the New Year with SA’s global superstars, Goldfish, along with supporting acts like Neon Dreams and the Saxby Twins. Enjoy fully stocked bars, delicious food on offer, and a celebration that’s bound to be unforgettable.
Ballito New Year’s Eve

 

JOHANNESBURG EVENTS

Stories In Motion: Festival of Music and Love – Kitchener’s, Braamfontein

22 December
Kitchener’s in Braamfontein hosts a festival celebrating music and love, featuring diverse artists.

Stories in Motion

 

 

Shimza One Man Show

25 December

Shimza’s One Man Show returns with its All White Homecoming Edition, featuring a stellar lineup including Zakes Bantwini, Kabza De Small, Sjava, and more.
Shimza

 

New Year’s Eve Bash at Chartwell Castle

31 December

Secure your spot for an unforgettable New Year’s Eve Bash at Chartwell Castle. DJ Ady promises a night of unparalleled excitement and music.
NYE at Chartwell

 

H2O Defected NYE

31 December

Dive into the ultimate New Year’s Eve celebration with H2O Party’s Massive DEFECTED NYE event. Join Africa’s largest dance music festival for a thrilling NYE dance experience featuring two international Defected artists.
H2O NYE

 

 

The Final Sunset New Year’s Eve at Katy’s Palace

31 December

Bid adieu to 2023 at Katy’s Palace, a year of contrasts. Join for a night of celebration, reflecting on the journey of the past year.
Katy’s Palace Bar

 

 

Have yourself a merry and festive December. Party responsibly, don’t drink and drive, and take care of one another!
Please note that the information is based on the details provided and may be subject to change.