December 2, 2025 

Celebrate the festive season 2025/2026 along the Garden Route. Explore an explosion of festivities this December with Hello Garden Route, your local experts! From jazz festivals and moonlit adventure walks to food and wine fairs, there’s something for everyone to enjoy this season in #theplacetobe

PLETTENBERG BAY

14, 21, 28, 29, 31 December & 4 January: Get Lucky Summer 

Get ready for Get Lucky Summer this festive season with a spectacular lineup of events coming to the Garden Route. This concert series brings you an abundance of family-friendly music hosted by the band Good Luck, happening in various locations this summer holiday including Plettenberg Bay and Knysna.

GoodLuck is coming to Plettenberg Bay and will be performing at the Beacon Island Resort on 14, 21 & 28 December as well as 4 January; at Loerie Park in Knysna on 29 December and back in Plettenberg Bay on 31 December New Years Eve Party at Robert Rugby Fields. There is a massive lineup including Will Linley (one of South Africa’s fastest rising stars), Prime Circle (SA Rock legends), Grassy Park (an electrifying live band) plus Jeremy Loops (the one and only). Put on your dancing shoes – these are shows not to be missed!

14 December: Barrington’s Wine Festival

An absolute must on the Plett December social calendars, the Barrington’s Wine Festival brings together some of South Africa’s Finest wine producers from across the country for one incredible afternoon. Meet the makers and stock up your cellars for Season at discounted festival pricing. The festival includes complimentary tastings, masterclass tutorials, live music and Barrington’s renowned hospitality and food.

14 – 16 December: The Robberg Fine Foods Classic Beach Regatta

Held every December in Plettenberg Bay, The Robberg Fine Foods Classic Beach Regatta is a premier beach catamaran event in the country and sailors come from across the country to take part. Spend three days racing on the spectacular bay with hobies, darts, nacras, and other beach cats.

19 December: Carols by Candlelight on Central Beach

Carols by Candlelight is a wonderful event that is hosted by the churches of Plett and is annually on Plett’s Central Beach. It’s a special evening with singalong to Christmas Carols and celebrate Jesus Christ’s birth and how He came to be Immanuel (God with us). It’s a wonderful family-friendly event.

28 December – 2 January: Wild Spirit Festival

This is a gathering catering to all ages, shapes, colours, creeds and forms. The annual Festival of Friends will be taking place at the Wild Spirit Lodge & Backpackers in Nature’s Valley. A playful, peaceful celebration with the intention of bringing in the New Year with full-power health and happiness.

KNYSNA

6 December: Kevin Fraser Live Comedy

Kevin Fraser Heart of the World live at 34 Waenhout, Knysna. Africa is not just a place but the pulse that reminds us how to laugh, dance and keep going. Somewhere between gumboots and gospel, beneath baobabs and above the bassline, a potjie has been bubbling for generations — stories, secrets, spices, and that unspoken flavour we call gees. Kevin Fraser — comedian, cultural translator and part-time potjie genie — get ready to laugh!

15 December: Christmas Carols with Afroquartez

Held at Blackwaters River Lodge & Mashie Golf Course, bring your family & friends and join for an evening of Christmas Carols with the much loved Afroquartez Quartet. Relax on the grass under the trees, enjoy a leisurely dinner in our restaurant, or order family style snack boards, or cheese platters.

19 December: Goukamma Night Adventure Walk

Don’t miss this unique activity happening at the Blackwaters River Lodge. Join this exhilarating Goukamma Night Adventure Walk nature walk taking place on every 2nd last Friday of the month. Experience the magic of nature under the stars as you embark on an exciting, guided walk through a scenic trail, illuminated only by moonlight and headlamps. Bring your gear, including a flashlight or headlamp, comfortable walking shoes, something warm depending on the weather, insect repellent and your sense of adventure!

SEDGEFIELD

14 – 23 December: Summer Solstice Gathering

Hosted at the Well-Being Sanctuary, this Solstice tribe gathers again to dance, to sing, to co-create what has become the most unique, magical and family-friendly festival. Known as HEARTISTRY – sharing gifts and talents from heart to heart, valuing your own uniqueness as well as the divine light in others.

WILDERNESS

2 January: Carne’s Full Moon Beach Run

Step into the magic of the moonlit shoreline at Carne’s Full Moon Beach Run, an unforgettable evening where runners, walkers, and fitness enthusiasts come together to celebrate movement, community, and the beauty of nature. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of Carne Beach, this event offers participants the rare opportunity to experience the thrill of running under the full moon’s glow, with the rhythmic sounds of the waves as your soundtrack and the cool sea breeze at your back.

HEROLD’S BAY

16 December – 2 January: Die Bush Lapa Music Festival

Get ready for a summer music experience like no other when Die Bush Lapa opens its doors again. This year promises to be bigger, better and even more unforgettable – featuring some of South Africa’s top artists, live performances, delicious food and an atmosphere that captures the true spirit of celebration. Let the rhythms of local music touch your soul and dance under the stars at this iconic hangout. It’s the perfect way to close the year – with friends, family, and a spectacular array of talent that will have you coming back for more.

GEORGE

6 – 20 December: Outeniqua Christmas Market 

Enjoy a pantomime – step through the looking glass and into a world of whimsy, wonder and imagination as the George Arts Theatre proudly presents Alice in Wonderland — a dazzling theatrical adaptation of Lewis Carroll’s timeless classic. This spellbinding performance combines captivating storytelling, vibrant costumes and immersive stage design to bring this fantastical world vividly to life. Perfect for audiences of all ages, it’s an unforgettable experience that celebrates imagination, courageand the joy of curiosity.

11 December: Secret Sunset at Garden Route Botanical Gardens

Join for a spectacular Secret Sunset gathering that promises good vibes and festive holiday spirit! This extraordinary hour-long joyful movement experience is expertly guided through headphones and is designed for all ages. You’ll receive headsets upon arrival and be led by amazing facilitators who will engage you in movement, mindfulness and fun connection—all while grooving to the beat! All bodies, ages, genders, and fitness levels are welcome.

12 December – 4 January: The Market at Transnet Transport Museum

With over 100 stalls, kids entertainment, food court and so much more, The Market at Transnet Transport Museum is one of its kind and not to be missed!

13 – 16 December: The George Festival 

Get ready for four days of colour, music, sport and community spirit. The George Festival promises so much fun with events including a magical sunset round of golf beneath the Outeniqua Mountains, the annual Lights Festival where Unity Park sets the vibe with live performances, DJs, kids’ entertainment and local vendors, ending with the magical festive lights switch-on at 20h00, a 2 day sports festival, a trail run event, MTB around the George Dam and even a culture day at the George Museum.

15 December: Nataniël Live

After 38 years on stage, Nataniël is widely respected as singer, writer, story teller and style icon with his breathtaking costumes. Witness the magic live with Nataniël in Concert. This show will include Christmas music and highlights from his last big stage productions as well as a retrospective selection of the funniest stories in English and Afrikaans. Nataniël shares the stage of Fancourt with pianist Charl du Plessis for this once-off performance.

16 December: MAfrika at Fancourt

Experience the Joy of MAfrika – A “MUST SEE – FAMILY THEATRE SHOW!” From the enchanting land of MinXa comes MAfrika, an uplifting theatre experience designed for all ages—from 4 to 104. Fancourt invites families to this heartfelt theatrical experience that is – the one woman show – MAfrika! Created by Nikki Jackman Joy and directed by Hannes Muller, MAfrika promises to foster joy and loving kindness in each heart it touches.

MOSSEL BAY

5 December – 9 January: Reed Valley Shows and Events 

Situated nearby Mossel Bay, Reed Valley wine estate and outdoor event venue will be hosting various top-rated local musicians over the course of season including the likes of Jeremy Loops, Matthew Mole, Roan Ash, Andriëtte Norman, Joshua Na Die Reen, Juan Boucher, Prime Cirle, Tree63, Valiant Swart and many more. Shows such as ‘Reggae Night’, Eighties Tribute, Master of Rock for New Years Eve are happening to, to name a few. This is definitely a place to put on your ‘to visit’ list this December!

19 – 20 December: Stilbaai Kelders Voedsel en Wynfees

Sample and savour some of the best wines from various wine farms at great prices. Stilbaai Kelders is thrilled to announce the return of the beloved December Voedsel en Wynfees. This event promises to be bigger and better than ever and will showcase local eats, fine wines, tastings and more.

Other Music & Outdoor Events

Redberry Strawberry Farm near George is hosting a variety of events over Peak Season 2025/2026 including their annual Boerevintage Let’s Love Local Gift Market from 15 December – 3 January, Carols by Candlelight on 18 December and a 5km & 9km Redberry Farm Trail Run on 20 December.

Jesse’s 2025 Summer Tour celebrates a string of powerful new releases — including his cinematic single Darker Days, and his soulful collaboration with Msaki, Wayside Lover, from their conceptual EP Entropy. Happening 22 December at Blend Country Restaurant in Knysna & 26 December at Fancourt in George.

Jeremy Loops will be touring the Garden Route this summer season with shows on 15 December at ReedValley near Mossel Bay, 16 December at Fancourt in George, 18 December at Blend Country Restaurant in Knysna and 31 December in Plettenberg Bay for New Years Eve!

Matthew Mole will be gracing our shores this December with spectacular soul-shows at Blend Country Restaurant in Knysna on 26 December, Fancourt in George on 27 December and ReedValley near Mossel Bay on 1 January. Be sure to see him live!

• Dr Evil Experience 11 – 13 December. A 3-day stage race in Plettenberg Bay.
• Jakkalberry Extreme MTB Race 13 December at the Redberry Farm in George. 
• Groot Brak Grabadoo 31 December in Great Brak River.
• Fancourt 10 KM Run/Walk 19 December at Fancourt, George. 
• Trans Agulhas Inflatable Boat Challenge 28 – 31 December along the coastline.
• Biathle, Triathle & Laser Run World Championships 8 – 13 December in Mossel Bay. 
• Eden Street Mile 14 December in George, 16 December in Oudtshoorn and 18 December in Hartenbos.
• The Knysna Toyota 7Passes MTB 3 January Wilderness to Knysna.
• Sabrina Love Summer Challenge 27 – 30 December in Plettenberg Bay.

Are you still looking for your dream December holiday accommodation? No need to fear when Hello Garden Route is near – we can still help! Give us a call 073 060 3664 or drop us an email info@hellogardenroute.co.za

Let us help you plan and book your seamless holiday to #theplacetobe #gardenroute Discover the perfect vacation stays along our beautiful coastline this festive season. From luxury villas to cozy cottages, Hello Garden Route has something for you!

From our family to yours: We wish you and your loved ones a most blessed festive season filled with love and joy… and a new year that abounds with all that is good! Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!