Share the love of the most magical time of the year with a host of festive things to do in Joburg. There’s so much on offer, from theatre shows and musical performances to Christmas markets and entertainment of all sorts.
It’s all about the cheer and sharing the love of Christmas by spoiling the kids, family and friends with the magic of the holiday season. Keep an eye out on this page as we will be updating it all through the festive season!
San Quentin Breakout Party
The Breakout Party is an unforgettable sonic adventure that bridges generations and cultures.
On select evenings, guests can feel the nostalgia of beloved classics, the thrill of today’s biggest hits and the irresistible energy of South African favourites with this one-of-a-kind event.
Members of the public are free to book The Breakout Party experience on 28 + 29 November and 6 December 2026. 1 and 8 December 2026 are open for corporate table bookings.
Cost: From R895pp, book via [email protected] or call 081 652 8589
When: 28 November + 1, 3, 7 and 8 December 2026 from 6pm to 11pm. 29 November and 6 December 2026 from 1pm to 6pm
Where: Shed 6 – Prison Break Market, 10 MacMillan Rd, Glenferness AH, Johannesburg
Explore the Breakout Party
The Nutcracker by the Youth Russian Ballet Company (YRBC)
Enter the enchanting world of The Nutcracker ballet, gracefully performed by the Youth Russian Ballet Company (YRBC).
The YRBC is a South African youth ensemble lovingly trained in the heart of Johannesburg, dedicated to the captivating artistry of the Russian Ballet method.
Step into a world of holiday wonder and be swept away by the captivating story, breathtaking choreography, and the grace of talented ballerinas as they use movement to tell the tale of the battles and triumphs of a young girl who befriends a Nutcracker that comes to life.
The ballet is all set to the magical melodies of the legendary composer, P.I. Tchaikovsky.
Cost: R180pp to R360pp, book via Webtickets
When: Saturday, 4 December at 12pm and 5pm and Sunday, 5 December at 11am and 3pm
Where: Main Theatre at Roodepoort Theatre, 100 Christiaan de Wet Rd, Florida Park, Roodepoort
The Gingerbread Village
This festive season, Mall of Africa is inviting families to step into a world where gingerbread houses come to life, biscuits become games and delicious end-of-year magic is waiting around every corner at the Gingerbread Village.
At the heart of the Village is the Magic Bakery, where children can decorate their very own gingerbread biscuits before sending it on a theatrical journey through the bakery.
Animated elves and a magical conveyor belt add to the experience before each creation is returned to its young baker in a beautiful take-home box.
Another exciting stop in the whimsical village is Marshmallow Manor, where visitors can put their aim to the test for the chance to win prizes from Mall of Africa stores, while Whack-a-Biscuit and Biscuit Ballers bring some friendly family competition to the village. The Biscuit Ballers activations also ensure that there is something to keep the older kids entertained.
Then, there’s the Magic Mirror, adding a digital twist to the experience. The Mirror uses AI to create a special festive photo that will be delivered directly to visitors via WhatsApp.
And you can’t have a Gingerbread Village without getting to meet the Gingerbread Man himself! The special guest will make appearances daily throughout the activation, while two additional themed photo installations located on opposite sides of the mall extend the magic, giving shoppers even more opportunities to capture their end-of-year memories.
Note that the Gingerbread Village runs in timed 50-minute sessions and children must be supervised by a parent or guardian throughout the experience. An indemnity will be available to be signed at the activation.
Cost: R65pp. Tickets will be made available to purchase via Quicket or at the door.
When: Running from 4 to 24 December 2026 during festive mall hours: 11 to 17 December from 9am to 9pm; 11 to 23 December from 9am to 10pm; 24 December from 9am to 8pm
Where: Crystal Court (between Lacoste and Boss) at Mall of Africa, Magwa Cres, Waterval 5-Ir, Midrand
The Festive Market in Fourways
The Festive Market was started by Andrew Ross of Chaos Theory in 2020. What began as a way to give 20 socially distanced traders a much-needed place to sell their products has grown to become a holiday highlight, featuring up to 60 traders in 2025.
This December, the market becomes part of Fourways Mall’s festive programme, bringing its mix of hand-picked, high-quality artisanal products to Level 5. Traders can be found in a dedicated Main Market Hub, on beautifully decorated trader carts dotted throughout the upper-level walkways or scattered around the main Fourways Mall Centre Court Festive Activation.
Shoppers can expect a wide variety of high-quality products presented by the very traders that make them. The artisanal collection includes handmade gifts, jewellery and accessories, festive decorations, home décor and textiles, clothing, art and stationery, bath and body products, children’s toys and books, personalised gifts and stocking fillers.
There’s also plenty for food lovers, from artisan and gourmet food products to baked goods, confectionery, sweet treats and festive food and drinks.
Cost: Free entry
When: Running from 8 to 24 December from 11am to 9pm daily
Where: Level 5 (upper level), Fourways Mall, 11 Ruby Cl, Witkoppen, Sandton
Kiddichella Christmas Wonderland
Kiddichella invites families to step into a boutique magical festive wonderland where Christmas cheer meets the colourful world of Kiddichella. The bespoke, curated event designed features live entertainment, festive fun, creative activities and plenty of Christmas magic.
Access to the wonderland gives families the freedom to enjoy the event at their own pace, with selected creative activities and experiences included in your ticket. The little ones can enjoy face painting, a photo booth, a Santa meet-and-greet, play areas, and mini rides. There’s also live entertainment, prize giveaways, and plenty of festive surprises.
From cheerful experiences and activities to festive entertainment, shopping and magical moments around every corner, there’s something to keep little ones entertained throughout the day.
Cost: R450pp | U2 Free entry | R50 (Parking). Book online.
When: Saturday, 5 December to Sunday, 6 December from 12pm to 6.30pm
Where: Lieu De Grace, Muldersdrift, 172B College Rd, Krugersdorp
Secret Sunrise Holiday Night Market
Secret Sunrise brings its holiday silent disco to Bryanston Market at sunset.
Participants don wireless headphones and follow the guidance of live facilitators mixing movement with upbeat music for this special Silent Disco wellness party.
Whether celebrating Christmas, holidays, family time, or simply the chance to pause and reflect, this sunset session promises good vibes, great music, and a whole lot of heart. After the disco, enjoy the Christmas Night Market for late-night shopping, festive treats, and holiday magic.
Cost: From R100pp, book via Quicket
When: Tuesday, 8 December from 6pm to 7pm
Where: Bryanston Market, 40 Culross Rd, Bryanston, Sandton
City Sightseeing Sunset and Christmas Lights Tour
City Sightseeing invites you to celebrate the festive season with two magical evening experiences featuring festive lights, family fun and incredible memories.
The Sunset and Melrose Arch Christmas Lights Tour celebrates the festive sparkle of Melrose Arch and a relaxed evening exploring the vibrant precinct with family and friends.
The Festival of Lights Tour @ the Joburg Zoo embraces the magic of the Joburg Zoo Festival of Lights, and guests can enjoy a scenic drive from Rosebank before exploring the Zoo’s spectacular light installations and festive displays at their own pace. Once done, they can rejoin the bus for a comfortable return journey to Rosebank.
Cost: From R250pp | R150pp (kids). Book online.
When: Running from 10 December 2026 to 3 January 2027, with departures at 5.45pm. Each tour operates on selected dates within this period.
Where: Rosebank, Outside Holiday Inn Hotel – Oxford Rd
Dr. Seuss’s How the Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical
National Children’s Theatre (NCT), proudly supported by Standard Bank, hosts its final production of the year: Dr. Seuss’s How the Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical,
NCT closes the year with the ultimate festive tale, the story of a grumpy, green-hearted grinch, a town called Whoville, and one small girl named Cindy-Lou Who who reminds us of all what the season is really about. Brought to life with NCT’s signature warmth, humour, and heart by Ivor Jones and Music Director and Voice Coach by Christine Ludwig, this production is the perfect way for families and schools to celebrate the holidays together.
Cost: From R180pp, book via Quicket. For school bookings: Call Nthabiseng Mmethi at 011 484 1584 or [email protected]
When: Running from 10 November to 20 December, from 10.30am and 2.30pm
Where: National Children’s Theatre, 3 Junction Ave, Parktown, Johannesburg
Christmas comes alive at the Festival of Lights
The annual Joburg Festival of Lights is back again this festive season. The festival features an enchanting collection of illuminated life-size animal characters, classical, harmonious entertainment, and a food and craft night market for visitors to the Joburg Zoo.
Patrons enjoy a tranquil walk in the zoo on a designated-lit route away from the animals under trees decorated in enchanting lights. The festival also features sculptures and family-friendly activities.
Cost: R175pp | R75pp for kids 3 – 12 | R100 per pensioner | Kids U3 free. Book via Webtickets
When: Running from 26 November to 3 January 2027. Thursday to Sunday from 7pm to 10pm
Where: Johannesburg Zoo and Shop U 30 Keyes, Jellicoe Ave, Rosebank, Johannesburg
Where to see Joburg Christmas lights
Design Quarter Christmas & Decor Gift Show
The Design Quarter Christmas & Decor Gift Show takes over Fourways for the ultimate Christmas Fair Extraordinaire.
Stalls will be filled with charming trinkets, Christmas decor, candles, tablecloths, flatware, crystal glasses, porcelain dinner services, decanters, beautiful flowers, rows of tasty treats, bakes and cakes, deli items for your pantry, gifts ready to carefully place into overflowing stockings, jewellery, clothing and so much more.
Carols and nostalgic Christmas music can be heard throughout the Christmas Gift Show while you enjoy shopping with your friends and family. Wrapping stations and some awesome family entertainment are also available.
Cost: Free entry
When: Saturday, 12 December to Sunday, 13 December from 9am to 4pm daily
Where: Design Quarter Shopping Centre, William Nicol Dr &, Leslie Ave, Magaliessig, Sandton
More about this Christmas takeover
Christmas Eve Dinner + Christmas Day Lunch & Dinner at Lacuna Bistro
Make this festive season truly memorable with an indulgent fine dining experience at The Maslow.
Enjoy a generous Christmas Eve buffet designed to bring everyone together around the table, featuring classic salads, a Mezze station, festive favourites for the mains and a tempting dessert spread.
For Christmas Lunch, enjoy an abundant festive feast filled with seasonal favourites, indulgent treats and all the flavours that make Christmas special.
Cost: Dinner – From R585 per adult; from R290 per kid aged 4 to 10. Stay the night for R 2170pp (x1 adult dinner + hotel room incl. breakfast) or R1555pp (x2 adult dinner + hotel room incl. breakfast). Book Christmas Eve dinner here
Cost: Christmas Day Lunch- From R895 per adult; from R450 per kid aged 4 to 10. Stay the night for R 2480pp (x1 adult lunch + hotel room incl. breakfast) or R1865pp (x2 adult lunch + hotel room incl. breakfast). Book Christmas Day lunch here
Cost: Christmas Day Dinner – From R895 per adult | From R450 per kid aged 4 to 10. Stay the night for R2480pp (x1 adult dinner + hotel room incl. breakfast) or R1865pp (x2 adult dinner + hotel room incl. breakfast). Book Christmas Day dinner here
When: Christmas Eve Dinner – Thursday, 24 December 2026 from 6.30pm to 10pm | Christmas Day Lunch – Friday, 25 December 2026 from 1pm to 4pm | Christmas Day Dinner – Friday, 25 December 2026 from 6.30pm to 10pm
Where: The Maslow Hotel – Lacuna Bistro, 146 Rivonia Rd, Sandown, Sandton
The top Christmas Lunches in Joburg and surrounds
Revolution NYE Festival
The Revolution NYE Festival is a vibrant year-end celebration that draws diverse crowds to usher in the new year.
The festival, held annually in Johannesburg, offers an eclectic mix of music genres, featuring both local and international artists. Attendees can expect a lively atmosphere with multiple stages showcasing various performances.
From electronic beats to live bands, Revolution NYE caters to a wide range of musical tastes. Food stalls and beverage options are available to enhance the overall festival experience.
Cost: R800 – R1100pp, book via Webtickets
When: Wednesday, 30 December from 11am
Where: Hornbill Lodge, Cnr R24 & R563, Magaliesburg
See more exciting NYE events in Johannesburg
Pretoria’s Vintage Christmas and Gift Market
Ramp up your Christmas shopping with Pretoria’s Vintage Christmas and Gift Market only at Irene Village Mall. Expect tables to be piled high with the best gifting options this festive season!
Browse over 150 market stalls and check out Christmas decor, Christmas stockings, linen, high-end quality hand-made gifts, toys, jewellery, clothing, leather bags and shoes, artisanal bakes, vintage carousel, Christmas lights and loads more.
Cost: Free entry
When: Saturday and Sunday, 5 and 6 December from 9am to 5pm daily
Where: Irene Village Mall, Cnr of Nellmapius Dr & Van Ryneveld Ave, Irene, Centurion
SPAR Carols by Candlelight
For the past two decades, Jacaranda FM and SPAR have proudly produced an annual Christmas show that features some of South Africa’s most prominent musicians.
Join a beautiful evening of Carols by Candlelight, where the melodies echo the love and joy of being Home for Christmas. Expect nostalgic carols sung by talented SA artists, including Elandré, Lee Cole, Zoë Modiga, Charlize Berg, Just6, BlackByrd, Ruhan du Toit, Lloyd Cele, Jesse Clegg, and Ndlovu Youth Choir.
The night is illuminated with the magic of music, family fun, delicious holiday treats and warm beverages, and some special surprises.
The event takes place live in Pretoria at the SunBet Arena Time Square, whilst simultaneously being streamed for those who want to watch the soul-stirring concert with their families at home.
Cost: From R95pp, book online
When: Thursday, 3 December. Doors open at 5pm. Show starts at 7pm
Where: SunBet Arena at Time Square Casino, 209 Aramist Ave, Waterkloof Glen, Pretoria
