Going local this festive season

Going local this festive season

This year Christmas will unlikely be the same. The tills won’t be ringing with the same vigour because of business closures along with the worst unemployment rate and retail spend in years, according to economists, retail analysts and trade unions.

But who’s to say we can’t have ourselves a Merry Christmas after all?

Despite everything that has transpired this year and all the stress we have been put under as a nation and globally, the festive season is a time of year that everyone looks forward to – and now that it is finally here we should not squander it!

Make the most of this holiday season by trying out our list of things to make and do and places to visit to put a boost in your holiday cheer.

Whatever route you choose, as long as you’ve got the spirit of Christmas in your heart, you really can’t go wrong.

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Woodstock’s a festive winner

If you are looking for a fun day out and a bit of gift shopping, then Woodstock is the place to be this summer. This eclectic area is truly a melting pot of unique shopping, dining and drinking options. The December holidays are upon us which means relaxing, hard partying and cool summer nights, so start planning ahead to visit a couple of these cool places.

Where to eat, shop and be merry
I doubt you can go to Woodstock and not visit The Old Biscuit Mill. It’s one of the happiest places to be! To avoid the desperate search for parking in the area during Cape Town’s busy summer season, catch a taxi or try to Uber. You will find everything thing you need for the best weekend in one place – including Christmas gifts! With a number of vibrant quirky craft shops for specialised and personal gifts and some delicious food stalls tucked inside this gem of a place, it really is a one stop shop for a tasty weekend!

By contrast, The Palms offers a calmer hideout spot away from the crowds. It’s stylish, airy and offers a variety of things to do and see. For family dining we love the hearty sandwiches and light meals at FOODWELOVE. If you’ve got an extremely sweet tooth and are seeking for a special treat, look no further than ROCOCOA Restaurant. This spot offers incredible chocolates, and you can even make your own.

The perfect place for a beer
If all of that shopping and eating calls for a beer, Woodstock is the perfect place to be. The local talent is established in the craft beer scene, with Woodstock Brewery, Woodstock Co-op, Riot Beer, Devil’s Peak and many more homegrown brands which now feature in lists of top Cape Town breweries and beers.

Something new, or something vintage?
Whether you’re seeking contemporary staples with a twist or a truly different vintage find, Woodstock is your best bet once again! There are quite a few vintage shops around and they’re all perfect for a spot of treasure hunting. Try out Woodstock Vintage, Muse Vintage Emporium or Dress Me Up for some cool clothes from back in the day. Vintage vibes aren’t just limited to clothes, either. Also try out The Vintage Lamp shop at The Palms for some beautiful memorabilia. They restore and make antique and period light fittings, which could be a great and unusual Christmas gift.

Woodstock has got you covered for the festive season. For shopping, dining and drinking with the best vibe and unusual options, get out there and start experiencing how lekker local is.