Tis the season to be jolly and what better way to embrace the festive spirit than by exploring Cape Town’s christmas markets. These merry hubs provide more than unique and handcrafted treasures; they provide a heartwarming sense of community, connecting people through their shared delight in the magic of the holiday season. So, set aside your other plans and get ready for a season of ho-ho-ho and a bag full of yuletide finds.
Looking for a unique gift made by some of the best local crafters in Cape Town? Fear not! From small trinkets to large gifts, this market has a selection of things festive and fabulous that are as diverse as Santa’s workshop on Christmas Eve. With more than 200 small business, local crafters, and artists, you’re in for a treat with a whopping 4600 products to see, smell, and touch. Fill your basket with spices, meats, sauces, cheeses, fudge, and sweets because who says Christmas calories count?
Date: 14-23 December
Time: Weekdays 9am to 7pm and weekends 9am to 4pm
Where: The Cape Academy, Firgrove Way, Constantia
Contact: info@southmarket.co.za, +27 (0)83 618 6366, www.southmarket.co.za
Curated by dynamic mom and pop duo, Pam and Peter Goslett, the Simply Gifts Market is not your run-of-the-mill shopping affair. With more than 150 exhibitors, it’s a feast for the senses that will leave you smiling from ear to ear! Picture crafted homeware, whimsical needlecraft, garden art, plants, an array of delectable jams and sauces, clothing, and a treasure trove of children’s gifts and books bound to make their eyes sparkle like fairy lights.
Date: 13 – 23 December
Time: Weekdays 9am - 6:30pm and weekends 9am – 4pm
Where: Sans Souci Girls’ High School, Esme Road, Newlands
Contact: info@simplygiftsmarket.co.za, +27 (0)66 023 9071, www.simplygiftsmarket.co.za
Get set for the ultimate merry and bright experience at the family-run Pinelands Craft and Gift Fair. More than 200 thoughtfully selected crafters and artists converge in a festive frenzy of creativity! Shop jewellry, ceramics, artisanal soaps, books, clothing, candles, fresh produce, woodwork and metalwork, and transform your home into a green wonderland with the offerings of a pop-up nursery. Don’t miss the array of tasty bites and sweets that even the Grinch would enjoy.
Date: December 2023
Time: Weekdays 9am – 7pm and weekends 9am to 5pm
Where: Pinelands High School, Forest Drive, Pinelands
Contact: +27 (0)82 661 6080, www.pinelandscraftfair.co.za
Whether it’s a gift for Aunt Mildred or a treat-yourself moment, this intimate market under shaded trees promises to outdo itself this year. Brace yourself for a dazzling mix of locally made new gems and returning favourites. Imagine everything from hand woven baskets, ceramics, accessories, and jewellery to clothing and skincare goodies. But wait, there’s more! Explore artisanal sauces, jams, olives, baked treats for your furry friends, hand-poured fragranced candles, children’s activity books, and other surprises at every turn.
Date: 25 November
Time: 9am – 4pm
Where: Little Orchard Nursery, Waterford Estate, Diep River
Contact: sarah@savvysisters.co.za, www.savvysisters.co.za
Images courtesy of Simply Gifts Market
