Sunsets and starry summer nights

Summer is finally here, and we are all happy to celebrate a couple of extra daylight hours to spend with our loved ones. Stay a little longer, go to bed a little later and learn about all the sights and sounds happening after sunset.

Summer days are filled with possibility, and so are summer nights! Whether you are looking to get active, or want to cruise into the evening, we found a variety of activities that are sure to keep adults and kids equally entertained.

Admire the ocean for longer

The Two Oceans Aquarium is once again extending its operating hours during the summer school holidays. From Monday 17 December until Sunday 6 January, they’ll open at 09:00 and close at 19:00, giving families an extra hour in the evening to explore the marvels of the ocean before dinner time, which can be enjoyed at any of the V&A Waterfront’s wonderful eateries.

Website address: withkids.co.za/2oceans

Contact number: 021 418 3823

Location: V&A Waterfront, Cape Town

Kids Age Groups: All ages

Experience an African sunset from the top of Table Mountain

The Cableway’s awe-inspiring half-price Sunset Special for South African families returns on 1 November 2018. Experience an African sunset from the top of Table Mountain from 18:00 each evening this summer. Adults pay R145 and children R72.50. Tickets are available online or onsite at the Cableway’s Ticket Office on Tafelberg Road.

Website address: withkids.co.za/tablemountain

Contact number: 021 424 8181

Location: Tafelberg Road, Cape Town

Kids Age Groups: Preschool to teen

See a show at the Afrikaanse Taalmonument

Joshua na die Reën kicks off the summer concert season at the Afrikaanse Taalmonument on Saturday, 1 December. This soulful and talented artist is conquering hearts and minds across the country. Sway to the music during this highly anticipated picnic concert. You can pack your own picnic basket and blanket or order a pre-packed basket from Volksmond Café.

Website address: withkids.co.za/stars

Contact number: 021 863 4809

Location: The Afrikaanse Taalmonument, Paarl

Kids Age Groups: Pre-school to teen

Website: Die Afrikaanse Taalmuseum

Watch an outdoor family movie

Create magical memories with your children during Galileo’s Family Sundays held every Sunday during the school holidays at the Kelvin Grove Club. Expect a night of family cuddles under the stars while watching a classic movie. Families can enjoy the kiddies' playland with jumping castles, face painters, games as well as a variety of delicious treats.

Website address: withkids.co.za/movie

Contact number:021 510 0929

Kids Age Groups: Children to teen

Get active, participate in a night run

Headlamps, batteries, action! If you are looking to have an active summer, why not try one of the many night runs in and around the Mother City? These events are a great way to end a beautiful summer’s day with distances from 4 km and up. Visit our website for a collection of night runs to choose from.

Website address: withkids.co.za/nightrun

Kids Age Groups: School children to teen

Go on a sunset cruise

Unleash your inner pirate and board the Jolly Roger Pirate Boat for a sunset cruise or night-time charter. Old and young will love sailing the high seas in this authentic pirate boat. For a cruise of a different kind, a sunset safari will do the trick. At dusk and during the night many animals that you would not normally see during the day, are active.

Website address: withkids.co.za/cruise

Kids Age Groups: Varie