As school holidays approach and with summer in full swing, we know many visitors are planning their itineraries. To make holiday planning easier, we’ve compiled a list of budget-friendly activities across the neighbourhood — all under R200. From water-based adventures to creative experiences, there’s a wide range of options for families, locals, and tourists looking to enjoy the season without stretching their budget.

1. Dive into Wonder at the Two Oceans Aquarium – After 3 Special

Adults: R200 | Kids 4–13: R90 | Kids under 4: Free
Visitors can discover Cape Town’s underwater world after 3pm at a discounted rate. From glowing jellyfish tanks and playful penguins to majestic turtles and sharks, it’s one of the city’s best-loved attractions — and an ideal way to spend a summer afternoon.

2. Take to the Water with City Sightseeing

• Harbour Cruise
  Adults: R79 | Kids: R50
  A 30-minute harbour cruise offers a fresh look at our working harbour, complete with views of the fishing fleet and resident seals.
• Combo Cruise – Harbour + Canal
  Adults: R155 | Kids: R95
  For those wanting a longer outing, the 60-minute option extends into the tranquil Marina and Battery Park canals.

3. Explore the Canals with Pedal Boat Cape Town

R100 per person | Kids under 4: R50
Visitors can glide along the Battery Park canals on a relaxed, pedal-powered outing — an easy, sunshine-filled activity perfect for families or groups.

4. Take in the Views from the Cape Wheel

Under R200 per standard ride
A spin on the Cape Wheel offers panoramic views of Table Mountain and the Atlantic from one of 30 enclosed, air-conditioned cabins. The 12–15 minute experience takes visitors 40 metres into the air, with the chance to spot harbour activity, kayakers, dolphins, and even the occasional whale.

5. Test Your Skills at Cave Golf

R45 per round | R40 for groups of 10+
This quirky 18-hole indoor mini-golf course offers fun twists and creative obstacles — a simple, family-friendly activity that adds a bit of playful competition to the day.

Whether visitors are seeking a quick family adventure, a low-cost date idea, or simply a spot to soak up the summer vibes, the V&A Waterfront offers plenty of budget-friendly ways to enjoy the season. See the full list, here.

 

LE BISTROT DE JAN DEBUTS AT INTERCONTINENTAL TABLE BAY HOTEL

Photo Credit: Creative@JAN

Le Bistrot de JAN has officially opened its doors at the InterContinental Table Bay Hotel, bringing Chef Jan Hendrik van der Westhuizen’s first Cape Town restaurant to the city. This marks a full-circle moment for the internationally acclaimed chef, returning home after years of building his reputation abroad.

Photo Credit: Creative@JAN

The restaurant celebrates classic French bistro cuisine with a South African twist, guided by Executive Chef Giles Edwards, known for his work at the award-winning La Tête. Together, the team brings a relaxed yet refined dining experience, blending timeless French flavours with local ingredients to create dishes that are both familiar and inventive.

Bookings can be made, here: Le Bistrot De JAN Restaurant – Cape Town, Western Cape | OpenTable

 

ORANJEZICHT CITY FARM MARKET BEGINS A NEW CHAPTER

After a decade at their old space, Cape Town’s favourite market will be relocating just across the road. It will open in a custom-designed timber barn with panoramic views of Robben Island and Table Bay, combining rustic charm with contemporary design.

From humble beginnings 12 years ago beside the Oranjezicht garden, the market has grown into a beloved destination, supporting over 100 traders and 3,500 livelihoods. The move ensures it keeps its signature family- and dog-friendly atmosphere, while introducing a handful of new traders alongside long-standing favourites.

New trading hours (from 6 December 2025)

• Saturdays: 08:00 – 14:00
• Sundays: 08:30 – 14:00
• Wednesday night market: 16:00 – 21:00

 

LIGHTING UP THE FESTIVE SEASON

Earlier this week, we marked the start of the festive season, with a magical lighting of our 20-metre-tall Christmas Tree just outside of Victoria Wharf Shopping Centre.

The special lighting of the tree, with a performance by iThemba Youth Choir, brought together both locals and visitors for a festive celebration.

 

JOY FROM AFRICA SHOWCASES LUCIE DE MOYENCOURT’S SHELLEGANCE

Our annual Joy from Africa campaign has brought a proudly local, sustainable spirit to festive season décor for the past seven years. With more than 1 000 crafters and 190 small businesses involved, the initiative transforms our neighbourhood into a celebration of creativity and community, turning waste into wonder and handcraft into holiday magic.

This year, the tradition continues with artist Lucie De Moyencourt, whose Shellegance creations bring an elegant, ocean-inspired touch. The Rockpoolers installation, brought to life in collaboration with Quazi Design, Bishop Tarambawamwe and Ashanti Design, is on display outside Woolworths, alongside other awe-inspiring pieces throughout the mall and surrounding precinct, offering visitors a celebration of local artistry, sustainability and festive imagination.

 

EVENTS AT THE WATERFRONT:

Silo Concerts 2025 Featuring Ami Faku

Photo Credit: Ami Faku via Instagram

The much-loved Silo Concerts are back at the V&A Waterfront’s Silo District, bringing the magic of live music under the stars. These free, open-air concerts have become a firm favourite in the city’s cultural calendar — nights filled with rhythm, melody, and a shared sense of community.

Headlining the night is none other than Ami Faku, one of South Africa’s most powerful and soulful voices. Born in Ezinyoka, Port Elizabeth, Ami’s journey began in her church choir before she broke into the spotlight on The Voice SA. Since then, she has released chart-topping hits like Ubuhle, Into Ingawe, Love Drunk, and Ndikhethe Wena. Her debut album Imali became a runaway success, and she went on to win Female Artist of the Year at the 2020 South African Music Awards.

Date: Friday, 5 December
Time: 19h00
Location: Silo District, in front of Zeitz MOCAA
Cost: Free

FUJIFILM instax™ Undisputed Breaking World Championship Cape Town

Don’t miss FUJIFILM instax™ Undisputed, an international breaking competition featuring Solo Men, Solo Women, and Crew battles. Top dancers from around the world will compete in Cape Town, with winners earning a spot at the World Final in Tokyo.
Judged by an elite international panel, this high-energy event showcases the creativity, skill, and athleticism of breaking.
Date: Saturday, 6 December
Time: 12h00 – 21h00
Location: Amphitheatre
Cost: Free

MADE Creative Workshops by Watershed

Join us Saturday, 6 December at MADE for a workshop by Fuata Moyo , where you will learn about their process and their ethos of “ follow the he. ART.” They are master storytellers through unique fashion pieces. Unleash your inner creative and customise your own hat , t-shirt or tote bag with the guidance of the Fuata Moyo team from V&A Watershed. After the 2-hour session, you will have the opportunity to take the workshop’s teachings. Attendees will learn tips and techniques from Fuata Moyo founder Kabambi aka KB and the minds behind some of Fuata Moyo’s most successful ranges.

What’s Included in the Ticket Price?

• The workshop itself
• Light refreshments
• Take home your own unique Fuata Moyo t-shirt – hat or tote-bag (normally priced over R700)
• Small gift from the Watershed

Location: Zeitz MOCAA
Time: 11:00-14:00
Price: R450
Book your spot, here.

Sunset Tango at the V&A Waterfront

Enjoy a free outdoor Social Argentine Tango with DJ Sylvia Westcott! Dance along or simply watch as participants glide through Tango, Tango Waltz, and Milonga. Everyone is welcome to join in — a fun, lively, and welcoming way to spend the evening.

Date: Sunday, 7 December

Time: 16h30 – 19h00

Location: Pierhead Deck

Cost: Free