Christmas specials in Stellenbosch! Come out and attend the various festivities – special Christmas dinners, carols by candlelight, picnic under the stars – everything possible to enhance the Christmas cheer!
 
The new Bistro 13 at Stellenbosch Vineyards offers a four-course Christmas lunch for R350. Munchkins (excuse the pun!) 12 years and younger get a two-course lunch at R100, including a gift from Santa. Child minders will be available during lunch. Call 021 881 3044 or reservations@bistro13.co.za.
 
Makaron Restaurant at the magnificent 5-star Majeka House Boutique Hotel - exclusive Christmas Eve dinner at R550 per person including sumptuous creations such as Compressed Terrine of Christmas Ham, Goose and Cherries, and a decadent Milk & Cookies dessert of eggnog mousse and mince pie ice cream. Call 021 880 1549 or info@makaronrestaurant.co.za
 
Spier will be offering a special Christmas picnic and dinner, but the real Christmas magic, don't miss the spellbinding Spier Festival of White Lights on 5 December. This evening is a performance arts procession across the farm, winding through heritage Cape Dutch monuments and led by Spier's Angel of Light on stilts. It also includes a dazzling display of lights, ranging from fire dancers, sculptures, lanterns and artistic performances. It ends with a complimentary glass of wine and relaxed tunes at the Spier Hotel. Tickets cost R160 per adults and R60 for children. reservations@spier.co.za
 
More light will be shed at Stellenbosch's annual Festival of Street Lights hosted by the municipality on 7 and 8 December. The mayor switches on the Christmas lights, so pack a picnic basket and sing along to your favourite Christmas songs during Carols by Candlelight on the opening night.
 
On 14 December, Father Christmas will be making his appearance on his tractor at Middelvlei Wine Estate's annual Sunset Carols. As the sun sets over the Middelvlei dam, guests will be singing carols while their famous Boerebraai is served and presents are delivered. This year's event costs R175 for Adults and R60 for children and is hosted in benefit of Stellenbosch Youth Outreach. Call 021 883 2565 or info@middelvlei.co.za
 
Other Christmas celebrations worth the drive out to Stellenbosch include the famous 96 Winery Road Restaurant's Christmas Menu which will be served for dinner on the 24th and for lunch on the 25th at R475 per person.
 
The Lanzerac Hotel & Spa will also be tantalising the taste buds with a gourmet three course Christmas Day Lunch, served up in their elegant Governors' Hall Restaurant or on the Terrace at R528 per adult and R265 per child under 11 years of age.