So much to do, so little time, and often on a limited budget, don't let analysis paralysis kill your vibe this festive season.
Instead, take our advice and check out our top five most beloved and (relatively) affordable things to do in Cape Town this summer. We've got cinematic experiences, culinary delights, and the gift shopping advice you've been looking for:
The Galileo Open Air Cinema, various locations
Approximate cost: R250, includes entry, backrest, candy cane, and Christmas hat
Ah, what's better than a Christmas movie night? One enjoyed languidly at an outdoor cinema. Think: the warmth of lawn snuggles at the home of some of Cape Town's most magical natural surrounds, Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens. This Christmas, they're showing Arthur Christmas – a classic. Pack a picnic (we can deliver a bunch of your favourites) or order a delicious dinner on-site.
Not near the Gardens/busy on Christmas? There are showings all summer at a host of other impeccable venues across the city, including Stellenbosch Vineyards, Central Park, and L'Avenir Estate. Check out the schedule here.
For more information, visit thegalileo.co.za.
Oranjezicht City Farmer's Market, V&A Waterfront
Approximate cost: between R50-R150 per person, depending on hunger
There is a special energy to the OZC Farmer's Market in festive season. It's a foodie frenzy of flipping deliciousness made busy by locals and tourists alike.
You have to visit on a Wednesday evening from 17:00 to 21:00 – a summer exclusive alive with aromas of cuisines the world over and the hum of humans enjoying good music and even better food and drink. Oh, and then there's also the killer oceanscape for a view.
For more information, follow @ozcfarm.
GoDriveIn Movie and Roadhouse, Salt River
Approximate cost: R250 per car (5 people max), extra for food and drinks
So quaint. So vibey. This old school drive-in is in an open-air lot in Salt River that has capacity for fifty cars and operates on the last Friday and Saturday of every month. Scout's honour, this place makes you want to eat popcorn and hold hands more than any other movie experience – in our humble opinion.
Kick your seat back or, better yet, turn your boot into a Christmas bed and enjoy watching a classic movie on an outdoor big screen from the comfort and safety of your car. The film sound is shared into cars via an FM transmitter. How cool?
Make sure to arrive early for the feast of food trucks, including must-try Mexican faire, a coffee shop, and a snack bar that sells perfectly (no, literally, we can't stress that enough) flavoured popcorn.
Adderley Street Festive Lights
Approximate cost: free if walking, a little petrol if driving
It's just a Mother City must, no? Besides, the City of Cape Town has really upped their game this year – so much so that it's genuinely worth a visit even if you've done it every year.
You have to see the elegant and proud Protea towering over town streets, the hopeful Christmas tree, and generally a series of joyful Capetonian tales written in poetic pictures and glinting colours. Make sure to check out the epic video mapping lights across City Hall too.
Courtyard 53 Craft Market, Constantia
Approximate cost: between R50-R150 per person, depending on hunger
A gifter's haven in the heart of Wynberg, here's where to go for your last-minute stocking fillers. It's a stunning array of stores surrounded by lively greenery – vibes! – and you can find everything and anything from boutique items and antiques, to local goodies and pot plants (that you will keep alive this time). Stop by the garden café for a bite to eat mid-shop – you won't regret it.
Open daily from 9am until 4pm, except on Saturday and Sunday they close at 2pm. For more information, visit @courtyard53.