As summer unfolds in the Durbanville Wine Valley, the region is set to welcome visitors with a festive programme that celebrates outdoor living, seasonal flavours and relaxed hospitality. From live music events to creative pairings and scenic picnic settings, Durbanville’s wineries invite guests to explore the valley’s distinctive sense of place throughout December and into the new year.
Live Music and Festive Highlights
A standout event on the summer calendar takes place at De Grendel, which will host Boney M live on 21 December. Set against the estate’s expansive vineyard backdrop, the outdoor concert forms part of De Grendel’s anniversary celebrations and promises a lively festive-season gathering. Beyond the headline event, De Grendel’s restaurant and tasting room will remain open over the festive period, offering visitors further opportunities to enjoy the estate’s hospitality.
SUNDAZE Summer Sundays Return
A firm favourite with locals and visitors alike, Durbanville Hills SUNDAZE Summer Sundays return for another season of laid-back afternoons on the lawns. These events combine live DJ music with a relaxed outdoor atmosphere, making them ideal for groups and families looking to enjoy summer in the valley.
The remaining dates for SUNDAZE Summer Sundays are 14 and 28 December, followed by 25 January, 8 February and 8 March, allowing guests to enjoy the experience well into the early months of the year. Alongside the music, the Durbanville Hills tasting room offers a Festive Sparkling Wine & Meringue pairing as well as its usual tastings, including child-friendly options.
Seasonal Pairings and New Spaces
Several estates are introducing seasonal offerings and refreshed spaces for the festive period. Nitida is expanding its tasting room and food offering, creating a new space with sweeping views and an updated selection of platters. Visitors are encouraged to follow the estate’s social media channels for updates on the expansion and to book ahead during peak holiday times.
Klein Roosboom continues to offer a relaxed festive-season experience, with Jean Restaurant presenting a seasonal menu for summer. The estate’s tasting room has also introduced two festive picnic options, giving visitors the opportunity to enjoy Durbanville’s landscapes in a casual outdoor setting. The tasting room will remain open throughout the festive season, making Klein Roosboom an easy addition to any holiday itinerary in the valley.
At Meerendal, guests can enjoy a festive bubbly tasting paired with three Cocoafair treats. The estate continues to offer its popular non-alcoholic pairing and a kiddies tasting, ensuring a welcoming experience for families.
D’Aria adds a seasonal touch with a festive Lindt-and-wine pairing, available alongside its regular tastings, including a juice pairing for younger visitors. With shaded lawns and ample open space, the estate remains a popular choice for relaxed family outings.
Casual Dining and Picnics
Canto continues to attract summer crowds with its range of wine, bubbly and gin pairings, complemented by wood-fired pizzas and picnic selections from the deli. Its informal setting and open lawns make it an easy-going destination for lingering afternoons during the festive season.
Explore the Valley by Wine Safari
Visitors looking to experience more of the Durbanville Wine Valley in one outing can opt for a Wine Safari tour in custom-built vehicles. These guided tours offer a scenic and informative way to visit multiple estates, with curated group bookings available for those seeking a tailored experience.
A Summer Invitation
With its mix of live music, festive tastings and family-friendly experiences, the Durbanville Wine Valley’s summer programme offers visitors a chance to slow down and enjoy the season. From December through to early autumn, the valley’s events and offerings provide a welcoming invitation to explore, relax and reconnect in one of the Cape’s most accessible wine regions.
