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SA dorpies that ‘do’ Christmas really well – Get ready to unwrap small town magic this festive season

Looking to escape the madness of the city this festive season? While everyone else makes a beeline for the coast, some of Mzansi’s most charming dorpies pull out all the stops for a tranquil small town magic summer break.

Here’s where to find your holiday spirit away from the big cities. So go on, take it slow.

Why trade the big city for small-town festive living

“Families are discovering that small towns offer unique advantages during the festive season,” says Flight Centre South Africa’s GM Antoinette Turner. “These dorpies provide a more relaxed pace away from peak-season city and coastal crowds, where families can truly connect. Kids can safely explore, parents can unwind, and service is more personal. With activities from outdoor adventures to educational experiences, these destinations offer excellent value for family budgets.”

Clarens: The jewel of the Eastern Free State

This artistic haven nestled in the Maluti Mountains offers a completely different summer vibe. Known as the “Jewel of the Eastern Free State,” Clarens transforms into a holiday paradise with its blend of festive fun, outdoor adventures and small-town charm.

14 December 2024 sees the Maluti Market on the Square and on 23 December, visitors can enjoy Christmas Carols at the NG Church. These events showcase handmade arts, crafts and local products – the perfect spot to grab those last-minute stocking fillers. The town’s artistic soul shines through its many galleries and craft shops, and December is no different. Then pop into the Clarens Brewery for some apres-shopping refreshments.

And if you’ve had your fill of tinsel and carols, beat the heat with hiking trails in the Clarens Nature Reserve or get the adrenaline pumping with Clarens Xtreme’s activities – from abseiling to white water rafting. Just 20 minutes away, Golden Gate Highlands National Park provides spectacular hiking trails plus wildlife viewing opportunities to work off all that Christmas pud.

red wooden door decorated with Christmas wreath

Parys: Riverside charm and festive markets

Can’t quite make the trip to Paris? Check out our SA version instead! Located on the banks of the Vaal River, Parys combines small-town charm with plenty of summer activities. The historic town centre provides a perfect backdrop for holiday exploring, while the river offers welcome relief from the Free State summer heat.

Don’t miss the beloved Hartelus Mark, held on the first Saturday of every month next to the Vaal River bridge. This local institution runs throughout the year, offering visitors a taste of authentic small-town life. At just R10 entry (free for under 10s and over 70s), it’s a bargain family outing from 9am to 3pm. Located at Egweni, Van Collerstraat nr. 2, the market showcases local products and crafts, making it perfect for unique holiday shopping.

Other summer activities in Parys include river adventures, historical tours and exploring the town’s many antique shops and art galleries. The town’s proximity to the Vaal River means the kids (and you!) can cool off enjoying swimming, kayaking and riverboat cruises.

Stellenbosch: Where summer never sleeps

This Cape Winelands town is turning up the heat this festive season with its Stay and Play Summer offers running from November 2024 to March 2025.

“We’re inviting everyone to discover the magic, freedom and ‘coolness’ of a Stellenbosch summer,” says Elmarie Rabe, Marketing Manager of Visit Stellenbosch. “Think blue skies, vibey cafés, endless vineyard-scapes and plenty of fresh-air fun for adventurers and explorers of all ages.”

Between 13 and 27 December, visitors can snap up special holiday deals on everything from boutique hotel stays to wine farm experiences.

The town’s newly unveiled Art Mile has transformed the already charming surrounds into an even more interesting open-air gallery, perfect for summer evening strolls.

For families, the Wonderdal Edutainment Centre at Hazendal promises hours of entertainment, while adventure seekers can enjoy quad biking, Segway tours or horse riding through beautiful landscapes.

In SA, where the festive season spells sunny pool days and braaivleis, picnics are a Winelands favourite.

The popular Street Soirees return this summer too, turning the town’s quaint thoroughfares into bustling market hubs of wine tasting, local cuisine and live music.

The Dwarsrivier Valley: a true hidden gem

Just 45 minutes from Stellenbosch, cross over the aptly named Helshoogte Pass to discover the intimate village communities of Pniël, Johannesdal, Kylemore and Lanquedoc. You’ll feel as if you’ve stepped back in time.

Marvel at this stunning valley enjoying homestays, cultural walking tours and some of the most breathtaking views in all of the Cape Winelands.

Book a Christmas lunch experience at Alluvia Boutique Winery or a local homestay or join a wine walk and toast to the delights of the Dwarsrivier grape.

Graaff-Reinet: Karoo festive magic

The Karoo’s crown jewel truly comes alive during the festive season. South Africa’s fourth-oldest town combines its historic charm with a packed calendar of summer events that showcase the best of Karoo hospitality.

Music lovers are in for a treat this summer with two special performances at the John Rupert Theatre. Catch Coenie de Villiers on 22 November 2024 (tickets R150 from the Tourism Office), followed by “Those Were the Days” on 10 December – an evening of nostalgia with Jannie du Toit, Susan Mouton and Chanie Jonker (tickets R150 from Camdeboo Hospice).

The Christmas spirit takes over at the historic NG Kerk on 24 November, with evening hymns filling the magnificent church for a traditional carol service. The celebration peaks on 14 December at the Karoo Lamb Champs on Somerset Street, offering all-you-can-eat local lamb alongside live music and festive cheer for R250 per person.

Between events, explore striking Cape Dutch architecture or take a sunset drive to the Valley of Desolation. The small-town charm shines while browsing for biltong along streets lined with aloes and jacarandas. Start your day at Maria’s Roastery with local coffee, or savour African-inspired spirits and cocktails at the Afrikanis Premium Rum Room in Hello You Restaurant.

Johannesburg: The city’s secret season

Here’s a plot twist – while everyone heads for the coast, Jo’burg transforms into an unexpectedly delightful summer destination. With shorter queues and less traffic, it’s the perfect time to explore the city’s attractions without the usual hustle.

The city’s stages come alive with festive productions. Disney: The Magic Box promises a magical journey through beloved Disney stories and songs. Theatre lovers shouldn’t miss Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol at the Pieter Toerien Theatre, Montecasino. This beloved production, running for six successful years, offers a festive treat for the whole family.

Adding to the musical magic, the Drakensberg Boys Choir brings their annual Noël Tour to various Johannesburg venues again this year.

Skip the kitchen chaos and enjoy the three Fs – family, fun, and feasting – at Joburg’s restaurants. Many venues offer special Christmas lunches and dinners with all the traditional trimmings.

For those who can’t escape to small-town charm this year, Jozi offers its own brand of festive magic – minus the coastal crowds and plus all the convenience of city living. The secret? Sometimes the best holiday destinations are right on your doorstep. Lekker, né?

 

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