The end of the year is upon us, and so is summer! And now is the time when everyone is wondering how to celebrate the end the year with their colleagues and friends. Thankfully, hotels, restaurants and businesses across South Africa come to the party every year and curate special events for everyone to enjoy. There is such a wide variety that one is actually spoiled for choice.
So, if you’re looking for inspiration for ways to celebrate the holidays, here are a few fun suggestions to say farewell to the year that was.
Leisurely brunches
What makes a good brunch? Long, lazy culinary sessions, preferably with a view. Famously known for starting with a round of drinks and ending in a belt-loosening satisfaction. Brunch is a favourite across the world, particularly during the warmer months, when fresh spring and summer produce can be enjoyed in the comfort of the outdoors. And it’s perfect for year-end celebrations with the team or loved ones.
Rather than head out with your crew, why not host a brunch at home? Prepare a meal with all the trimmings or ask your guests to bring a plate of eats each and serve brunch buffet-style. As the host, you can supply the drinks for the affair, so ensure you have enough champagne, wine, and other non-alcoholic drinks to go around.
Rooftop hangouts
Rooftop bars have become increasingly popular over the years, and summer is the perfect time to enjoy these! Get dressed to the nines with friends and head out on the town for a night of drinks and good times.
Cape Town has a number of well-documented rooftop hangouts including Tjing Tjing in Long Street. In Durban, The Rooftop BBQ with the most majestic ocean views, offers Tuesday to Sunday all-day-long drinks and dining options. If you’re in Johannesburg, head to Red Roof in Rosebank for more than just its spectacular views of the City of Gold.
Christmas buffets
If you’re not up to the task of cooking for all and sundry this Christmas, then why not host a big family potluck Christmas? Doing all the cooking yourself takes too much time, and can be costly. So, if your family is up to it, assign a dish to each person or each family to bring along with them, and you’ll have a feast fit for royalty.
If you’re looking for a cost-effective way to avoid having to shop for everyone, ask guests to participate in a Secret Santa gifting game so each guest only has to bring one gift. Set a budget limit for the gift of R150, to ensure everyone gets something really lovely. As the host, it may also be a good idea to have one or two backup stocking stuffer gifts (Nifty Gifts has some great, affordable options) wrapped and ready in case someone forgets their Secret Santa gift. That way, no one goes home empty-handed.
