Cape Town’s Ultimate Summer Story Is At The V&A Waterfront

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The V&A Waterfront launches an ocean-inspired festive installation created with local artists as part of the Joy from Africa campaign.

As upgrades settle across the precinct, the V&A Waterfront is stepping into summer with renewed energy. This festive season, the neighbourhood transforms into a living gallery of South African creativity where visitors can feel, share and live the spirit of summer.

“Our summer festive period is a time for families to connect and create memories at the Waterfront,” says David Green, CEO of the V&A Waterfront. “From seagulls and salty air to sightseeing boats and the tablecloth over Table Mountain, the neighbourhood sets the perfect backdrop for restaurants, shopping and busker performances.”

Green adds that the season arrives with major milestones. The Oranjezicht City Farm Market has a new home. The InterContinental Table Bay Cape Town reopens after a R1bn refurbishment. More than 20 new stores have joined the precinct. Several existing venues have refreshed their spaces to elevate the overall experience.

What’s New This Season

Visitors will find several new attractions across the precinct:

• The Oranjezicht City Farm Market now operates in a custom timber barn with panoramic views of Robben Island.
• The InterContinental Table Bay Cape Town opens with redesigned rooms, suites and four dining venues. This includes Le Bistrot de JAN by Michelin-starred chef Jan Hendrik.
• Mugg and Bean and the Woolworths W Café reveal fresh new interiors with harbour views.
• Ladurée arrives with its luxury pastries and signature macaroons.

Entertainment, Music and Festive Magic

Families can look forward to daily surprise-and-delight moments across the neighbourhood:

• From 13 to 24 December, children can meet Santa and his elves at Centre Court opposite H&M.
• Vintage car fans will enjoy a nostalgic display of classic cars at the Silo District.
• The Silo Concert Series returns with free outdoor music at 7 pm on 5 December, 2 January and 6 February. Artists include Ami Faku, Robin Auld, Wendy Oldfield, Hatchetman, Yoav, Jabulile Majola, James Stewart and John Ellis.
• Naledi’s Book of Magic opens on 13 December. This family theatre show brings together music, magic and dance in partnership with the College of Magic.

A New Year to Remember

The V&A Waterfront will host Cape Town’s biggest New Year’s Eve music line-up. Performers include Zoe Modiga, GoodLuck and DJ Shezzy K. A five-minute fireworks display will welcome 2026. Visitors can expect a night filled with music, family and strong gees throughout the neighbourhood.

Joy From Africa to the World

The annual Joy from Africa installations return across the precinct. These artworks are created from recycled materials and highlight African craft, design and heritage. A new installation called Rockpoolers, designed by Lucie de Moyencourt with Quazi Designs, Bishop Tarambawamwe and Ashanti Design, will be displayed near Woolworths.

“Cape Town is recognised worldwide as a must-visit destination,” says Donald Kau, Head of PR and Communications at the V&A Waterfront. “We want every guest to leave feeling inspired and excited to return to Africa’s most loved destination.”

Plan your visit and explore the full summer programme at summer.waterfront.co.za.m 1 December 2025 in the Victoria Wharf Shopping Centre, outside Woolworths. It forms part of a more expansive festive collection of artworks throughout the mall and precinct. The experience celebrates local creativity, sustainability and the coastal character of Cape Town.

Visitors can explore the whole community of makers at joyfromafrica.co.za.