The holiday season is here, and summer is in full swing! It’s the perfect time to grab your happy hound and head outdoors to explore Cape Town’s dog-friendly festive markets. From handcrafted gifts to tasty treats and sunny spaces to roam, we’ve rounded up the best 2025 markets to make your festive adventures paw-sitively unforgettable.

Franschhoek Village Christmas Market

When: 13-14 December 2025 | 9am-3pm

Where: 29 Huguenot Road, Franschhoek, 7690

Entrance fee: Free

Dog-friendly: Dogs are welcome on a leash

The Franschhoek Village market is on every Saturday from 9:00 - 15:00 but has its annual Christmas edition in the middle of December. You’ll find good food, drinks and artisanal products that make perfect gifts! Live music and beautiful decorations ensure a festive vibe.

Lourensford Market

When: Throughout December 2025 on Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays with special extended dates like 22 & 29 December too.

Where: Lourensford Wine Estate, Lourensford Estate, Lourensford Rd, Somerset West, Cape Town, 7130

Entrance fee: Free (small parking fee)

Dog-friendly: Well-socialised dogs on leads are welcome

The Lourensford Market runs every weekend, with its much-loved festive edition popping up throughout December. Expect gourmet food stalls, boutique gifting stands and a festive atmosphere under the estate’s shady trees. With live music, twinkling lights and plenty of outdoor space, it’s an easy, relaxed way to soak up the holiday cheer with your hound by your side.

Root44 Market

When: Throughout December 2025 on Saturdays & Sundays.

Where: Corner of R44 and, Annandale Rd, Stellenbosch, 7600

Entrance fee: Free

Dog-friendly: Dogs are welcome on a leash

Root44 Market is open every Saturday and Sunday, and while it doesn’t host a dedicated Christmas fair, the summer season brings a naturally festive feel. Think open-air lawns, craft stalls, delicious food stalls and live music all weekend long. It’s the kind of laid-back, sunny market that makes holiday gifting (and adventuring with your dog) feel effortless.

Regular Dog-Friendly Markets

These are some of the markets that take place more frequently around Cape Town that are also dog-friendly. You can visit…

• Oranjezicht City Farm Market - Saturdays, Sundays, Wednesday evenings
• Rondebosch Craft Market- Second and last Saturday of every month
• Vegan Goods Market - First Sunday of the month
• Under the Trees Market - Every Sunday
• Noordhoek Farm Village Market - Wednesday evenings
• Boschendal Friday Night Market- Friday evenings

Tips for Attending Markets with your Dog

A little pre-market preparation can help to ensure your day out at the market is a positive experience for you and your doggo.

• Water & Snacks. Take a water bowl and some treats to keep your dog hydrated and happy.
• Plan for Quiet Times. If your dog is anxious in crowds, visit during quieter hours to reduce stress.
• Socialisation & Training. Make sure your dog is well-socialised and knows basic commands for better control in crowds and with other dogs.
• Leads. Some markets require dogs to be on a lead, even if this isn’t their policy it’s always a good idea to use one and respect the space of people and other dogs.
• Take breaks. Give your dog some time out in the shade to avoid overheating in the summer sun, and give them a chance to relax if the market is overstimulating.
• Respect Others. Keep your dog on a leash, clean up after them, and be mindful of other shoppers and pets.

We hope this list is helpful and you and your dog enjoy all the fun on offer this festive season!