December is one of the most vibrant months in Nelson Mandela Bay. The city shifts into full summer mode, beaches fill up, events pick up pace, and families begin planning outings before the festive rush. Whether you want an activity-packed month, relaxed cultural experiences, or something fun for visiting relatives, NMB has a surprisingly rich mix of options.
Below is our expanded guide to what’s happening across the Bay in December 2025, based on events listed by Nelson Mandela Bay Tourism (NMBT) with added suggestions and local favourites to round out your itinerary.
1. Uncle Jumbo’s Christmas Party
25 November – 7 December
Uncle Jumbo’s Christmas Party
A beloved Eastern Cape festive tradition for over 50 years, Uncle Jumbo’s Christmas Party remains one of the city’s most nostalgic seasonal events. Families return year after year for the performances, character parades, festive songs, and the wholesome, old-style holiday magic that feels uniquely local.
The programme runs for nearly two weeks and is ideal for younger children or adults who grew up attending and want to share the experience with a new generation. If you’re planning early December outings, this should be at the top of your list.
2. African Dinner Experience – Eastern Cape Flavours & Culture
Ends 3 December
African Dinner Experience
Food lovers and culture enthusiasts will appreciate this intimate dining experience featuring traditional Eastern Cape dishes, local ingredients, and storytelling that highlights regional heritage. It’s a refreshing alternative to typical restaurant outings, slower-paced, communal, and thoroughly rooted in local identity.
If you’re looking for something to do with friends before the holiday tourism rush begins, this is a great way to ease into the month with warmth and flavour.
3. Pro Dive Port Elizabeth – 30 Years of Ocean Adventure Celebration
7 December
Pro Dive Events Page
Celebrating three decades of ocean exploration, conservation and training, Pro Dive marks its 30-year milestone with a special boat-launch event. The day usually includes displays, diving-related activities, marine-life education, and opportunities to learn more about the rich underwater life along Algoa Bay.
Even if you’re not a diver, it’s a unique chance to connect with the coastal side of the city, a reminder that NMB is South Africa’s bottlenose dolphin capital and one of the best marine-wildlife viewing spots in the country.
4. The Bay Summer Season
Starts 16 December
Bay Summer Season
The start of the Bay Summer Season is when the city truly shifts gears. Known for bringing thousands of visitors to the beachfront, the programme typically features:
- Beachfront live music
- Sporting events
- Pop-up markets
- Outdoor fitness sessions
- Family entertainment
- Holiday-themed activities
Although the exact schedule varies each year, the atmosphere alone — from Kings Beach to Humewood and all along the promenade — makes this a must-experience part of December in NMB. Expect a festive, friendly crowd and long, warm evenings perfect for sunset watching.
5. Festive Markets and Local Shopping
December in the Bay wouldn’t be complete without market season. From craft markets to small outdoor fairs, these events highlight local makers selling everything from handmade ceramics and accessories to baked goods, art, home décor and natural products.
Markets are a great opportunity to shop small and support local talent, while also finding personalised and affordable gifts. They also make for lovely outings with kids or friends — the kind of slow, easy afternoon activity that suits the warm weather and holiday spirit.
6. Cultural and Slow-Day Activities
Not every December day needs to be busy. NMB has plenty of cultural and scenic options perfect for relaxed outings, quieter weekends, and visitors who want to learn more about the city.
Donkin Heritage Trail
Explore public art, historical monuments and impressive viewpoints along the Donkin Heritage Trail. It’s ideal for a calm morning walk or an afternoon exploring the city’s architectural and cultural stories.
Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Art Museum
Visit the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Art Museum for exhibitions highlighting Eastern Cape artists, traditional art forms and curated collections.
Beachfront Cafés and Coastal Walks
The beachfront remains one of NMB’s greatest assets. Whether you prefer an iced coffee at Hobie Beach, a walk along the pier, or simply relaxing on the grass with friends, the coastline offers inexpensive and enjoyable ways to unwind — especially during the busier weeks of December.
7. Outdoor and Nature Experiences
December is peak season for enjoying the natural beauty of the Bay. Other activities you can pair with the month’s event schedule include:
- Picnics at Sardinia Bay or Cape Recife
- A visit to the Cape Recife Nature Reserve
- A morning at the skate park or cycling the promenade
- Early beach swims before the mid-day crowds
- Renting boards for bodyboarding or surfing lessons
These aren’t tied to specific dates, but they’re perfect additions to a December itinerary, especially if you have family visiting from out of town.
Final Thoughts
December in Nelson Mandela Bay is a mix of tradition, culture, summer energy and community spirit. Whether you’re attending long-standing favourites like Uncle Jumbo’s Christmas Party, exploring local flavours at the African Dinner Experience, or enjoying the lively beachfront during the Summer Season, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the month.
Bookmark this guide, share it with visiting relatives, and follow along as new events are added to the official NMBT listings. The Bay always has a way of surprising you in December, and 2025 is no exception.
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