As the sun dipped behind Table Mountain on 14 February 2026, the open square at Century City Conference Centre transformed into a sea of soft candlelight and anticipation. Couples, friends, and colleagues gathered under a clear Cape Town sky for Valentine Under the Stars – not just a romantic evening, but a heartfelt tribute to ten years of quiet determination and shared success. The air carried the faint scent of fresh fynbos from nearby Intaka Island, mingling with the warm notes of grilled local flavors and the distant hum of strings tuning up.
This wasn’t an ordinary Valentine’s celebration. The event marked the venue’s milestone anniversary, bringing back a signature open-air concert that launched the space a decade earlier. Around 700 guests settled in, glasses raised, as the evening unfolded with genuine gratitude at its core.
A Night Rooted in Gratitude
CEO Gary Koetser stepped forward early, his words cutting through the gentle evening breeze.
“Tonight is about gratitude,” he said. “Our success is built on the trust and support of our clients, the commitment of our exceptional team, and the strength of our partnerships. This milestone belongs to all of us.”
The sentiment echoed across the crowd. Special nods went to long-time partners Rabie Property Group and Delta Air Lines, whose alignment in excellence helped shape the venue’s path. Host Ryan O’Connor, a friend of the brand since day one, guided the night with familiar warmth, while dignitaries – including representatives from the United States Embassy, Alderman James Vos, Deputy Mayor Eddie Andrews, and Western Cape Premier Alan Winde – added weight to the occasion, underscoring its place in Cape Town’s hospitality story.
From Disruption to a Diversified Legacy
The past ten years tell a story of resilience few could have scripted. When the pandemic hit, the team didn’t pause – they pushed forward. Construction continued on a second hotel, short-term luxury apartments arrived via Axis Luxury Apartments, the conference space grew by about 400 square metres, and one restaurant underwent a thoughtful rebrand. What emerged was a more versatile destination: two hotels, luxury apartments, expanded conferencing, and refreshed dining options.
Premier Winde captured it well, praising the venue’s pursuit of global standards and its role as a cornerstone of Cape Town’s offerings. This year alone, forecasts point to hosting a record 100,000 delegates – proof that adaptation, not endurance alone, built something lasting.
Voices from the Stage and the Community
The evening’s heart beat strongest through music. The Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra filled the night, joined by soloists Tarryn Lamb, Lynelle Kenned, Louis Loock, Craig Lucas, Donné de Kock, and Katlego Maboe. Their performances wove classic and contemporary threads, drawing quiet gasps and spontaneous applause. One attendee later shared how a single aria felt like a personal reflection on the city’s own journey; beautiful, layered, enduring.
Beyond the spotlight, the venue’s commitment shows in subtler ways. Local artists’ works line the spaces, reaching thousands of monthly visitors who might never encounter them otherwise. Events here have long drawn ideas, investment, and connections to the region, quietly strengthening Cape Town’s cultural fabric.
Leon Cohen of Rabie Property Group reflected:
“What started as a dream has become a legacy. We are grateful to every individual and partner who helped turn that vision into reality.”
Looking Ahead with the Same Care
As the orchestra’s final notes faded into the starry sky, the message lingered: excellence isn’t loud – it’s consistent. Century City Conference Centre and Hotels steps into its second decade focused on growth that honors the same standards of care, community, and quality that defined the first.
For locals, it’s a reminder of a gem right here at home – perfect for staycations or marking milestones. For visitors, it’s an invitation to experience Cape Town’s blend of global polish and authentic warmth, all in one place.
What’s your favorite memory of a Cape Town evening under the stars?
Address: No. 4 Energy Lane, Century City, Cape Town, South Africa
Website: www.ccconferencecentre.co.za
Tel: +27 21 204 8000
