December & January Festive Season Events and other Happenings in the Garden Route 2023/2024
Hello Garden Route brings to you the ultimate Garden Route December & January Guide: What to do and where to go this holiday season!
Discover the top attractions of the Garden Route with the ultimate 2023 / 2024 Festive Summer Guide for the best holiday experience.
The Garden Route comes alive with a kaleidoscope of events in December 2023 – January 2024, offering a perfect blend of culture, sports, and entertainment. From culinary showdowns to beach festivals, live music events and heartwarming carol nights, there’s something for everyone. Let’s explore the key events that promise to make your December memorable.
On South Africa’s south-western tip is a 300 km stretch of pristine land that is thought to be one of the most picturesque in the entire nation. The Garden Route is a region that is known for its wealth of lagoons, lakes, mountains, forests and beaches along its winding roadways, an area rich in fauna and flora. A visit to the majestic Garden Route offers an array of adventure and other outdoor activities including hiking and whale watching, as well as immaculate accommodations from cosy farm cottages to lush sea side villas, world renown golf resorts and everything in-between.
Hello Garden Route offers all the answers to your travel and accommodation requests this holiday season.
15 & 17 December 2023: The Carpe Musicam, George & Mossel Bay
Presenting the “Joy to the World” Christmas concert, featuring enchanting melodies from the Orchestra and Choir, guaranteed to make it an unforgettable evening for the whole family. They will be hosting two shows, namely: 15 December at 19h00 – Outeniqua High School, George // 17 December at 18h00 – City Hall, Mossel Bay.
For more information visit www.carpemusicam.co.za
14 – 17 December 2023: George Tens, George
Step into the thrill of the 2023 Africa Skills George TENS Festival – an event that has blossomed from its rugby roots into a multi-sport extravaganza. From men’s and women’s rugby, women’s and mixed netball, golf, touchies, to the exciting additions of clay court tennis, padel tennis, dodgeball, fishing, and a Colour Run, there’s something for everyone. Rally your friends, family or teammates, or venture out on your own – just don’t miss out on the festivities at Outeniqua Park and its surrounds. Co-founded by Heyneke Meyer and IG van der Merwe, this festival, presented in collaboration with the George Municipality and George Tourism, promises not only top-notch sports but a rocking Festival Village. With local and emerging artists, showcasing their talent.
For more information visit www.georgetens.co.za
22 December 2023 – 1 January 2024: Somerfees, Mossel Bay
Taking place at Van Riebeeck Stadium, immerse yourself in the festive spirit at this Treffer na Treffer, a music festival showcasing A-list artists. Don’t miss out on this musical extravaganza as you celebrate the joy of the season.
For more information visit www.facebook.com/somerfeesmosselbaai/
20 December 2023 – 3 January 2024: Fancourt Summer Concerts, George
Fancourt is hosting a Summer Music Line up over various days this festive season. Featuring Arno Carstens, Sunset Sweatshop, Jess Clegg, Mathews Mole, Drooms In The Room, Raaf, Bad, Peter, Lee Cole and James Deacon, Bernice West, Kurt Darren and Loufi.
For more information visit www.visitgeorge.co.za/event/fancourt-summer-music-line-up/
15 December 2023 – 2 January 2024: Boerevintage Gift Market, George
Boerevintage Gift Market, one of South Africa’s largest gift markets, will host its 9th event this year at the Redberry Farm. Featuring over 160 exhibitors from across the country, it showcases a diverse array of exclusive handmade gifts and products. This is the perfect opportunity to support local crafters, makers, and bakers during the festive season.
For more information visit www.boerevintage.co.za
Other markets worth visiting during your sojourn in the Garden Route:
- Totties Country Market in Knysna
- Wild Oats Community Farmers’ Market in Sedgefield
- Outeniqua Farmers Market in George
- Hartenbos Gift Market in Hartenbos
19 December 2023: Craig Hinds Live, Wilderness
Craig Hinds, the acclaimed lead singer of the South African band Watershed, will guide you through his musical journey, weaving stories and forming connections with the audience. Be sure to catch this intimate musical performance at The Erika Turvey Art Gallery in Milkwood Village.
For more information visit www.facebook.com/p/Erika-Turvey-Art-Gallery-and-Studio-100054291500341/
22 December 2023: Carols By Candlelight, Wilderness
Hosted by local musician and songwriter, Shomon, this magical event will take place at Milkwood Village in the heart of Wilderness. From 19h30 – 20h30, candles and carol books will be provided. Join in for a joyous occasion to kick off the Christmas cheer.
27 December 2023 & 7 January 2024: Carne’s Full Moon Beach Run, Wilderness
The 11th edition of Carné’s Full Moon Beach Run will take place on Wednesday, 27 December 2023 when the stars, full moon and low tide combine perfectly once again. Again, on 7 January 2024. Starting at Swartvlei Beach, the 21km runners will pass Gericke’s Point, the rocky landmark resembling a lion’s head. Thereafter enjoy kilometers of mixed sand and rock shelves with the warm Benguela current on your left and the fossilised sandstone dunes towering above you on your right. Passing Kleinkranz village (the 7km Runners starting point) and a mid-run refreshment stop, runners then reach Flat Rock and a few more kilometers of sand running to the finish at Wilderness NSRI. The Wilderness NSRI Station 23 will host the finish where runners will be greeted with medals, boerewors roll and a drink (included in your entry), and an opportunity to share this amazing experience with fellow runners and family.
For more information visit https://chaingangevents.co.za/event/full-moon-beach-run/
15 December 2023: Barrington’s Presents Carols by Candlelight, Plettenberg Bay
Immerse yourself in the soul-stirring melodies of gospel songs, skillfully performed by talented singers and musicians, and celebrate the heartwarming Christmas story. While entry to the concert is free, please be aware that this event is a fundraiser for Hospice Plett with a request to all attendees to contribute a donation during the event.
For more information visit www.plett-tourism.co.za/events/hospice-carols-by-candlelight/
16 – 18 December 2023: Robberg Classic Beach Regatta, Plettenberg Bay
Prepare for an exhilarating experience at the Robberg Fine Foods Classic Beach Regatta this December. Held annually in Plettenberg Bay it stands as the country’s premier beach catamaran event. Sailors from all corners of the nation gather to partake in three days of thrilling races across the stunning bay. Beyond the races, enjoy a delightful dinner and connect with fellow sailors. The event provides opportunities to mingle with the fleet, creating a friendly atmosphere that welcomes participants of all skill levels. While the racing showcases high-quality competition with world-class sailors, the regatta is renowned for its inclusive and welcoming spirit. You don’t need to be a champion to join; you just need a passion for beach cat sailing!
For more information visit www.plett-tourism.co.za/events/robberg-fine-foods-classic-beach-regatta-2023/
22 December 2023: Jeremy Loops at Reed Valley, Mossel Bay
Famous Cape Town music artist, Jeremy Loops, will be performing at Reed Valley. A show not to be missed!
For more information visit www.ReedValley.com
17 & 23 December 2023 // 29 – 31 December 2023 // 31 December 2023 // 7 January 2024: Get Lucky Summer Festival, Plettenberg Bay & Knysna
The Garden Route’s most iconic live music concert series hosted over the summer holiday season, founded by top South African Live-Electonic Band GoodLuck. Hosts some of the best Artists from around South Africa. Performing in Plett on dates 17 & 23 December 2023, 29 – 31 December 2023 & 7 January 2024; and in Knysna for New Years Eve on 31 December 2023.
For more information visit www.getluckysummer.co.za
31 December 2023: Barrington’s New Years Eve Party, Plettenberg Bay
Celebrate the arrival of the new year in style at Barrington’s New Year’s Eve Party, accompanied by the smooth tunes of a live jazz duo featuring Waldi & Marlene. Feel the energy rise as DJ SIVO takes the stage to kickstart the party. Barrington’s full a la carte menu will be available, ensuring a delightful culinary experience throughout the night. Join us for an evening filled with celebration, joy, and the anticipation of a new year, surrounded by good vibes and great company.
For more information visit www.barringtonsplett.co.za
December Holiday Accommodation for 2023 can still be booked through our devoted and friendly Hello Garden Route team of accommodation experts. With a wide range of options to suit your budget and party size, we look forward to welcoming you & your loved ones – even the 4-legged, furry ones. We have some amazing pet-friendly holiday accommodation on offer too!
As you embark on this journey through the Garden Route’s summer holiday events, embrace the diversity of experiences, create lasting memories and savour the magic!
For an unforgettable holiday filled with fun, the Garden Route stands out as the ultimate destination. If you’re wondering where to go and what to do during this festive season, Hello Garden Route has got you covered.
