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Things to do this December in Johannesburg Gatsby | What's on in Joburg

Festive Fun: 30+ Things to do this December in Johannesburg

Whether 2026 was your year or not, why not go out with a bang! Spend the last days of the year celebrating with an incredible variety of fun things to do this December in Johannesburg. From festive markets to summer shows, family fun to exciting activities, there is something for everyone. Keep an eye on this page for more December event updates.


FESTIVE & SUMMER SHOWS + EXPERIENCES


The Youth Russian Dance Company cast in The Nutcracker

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 Firebird | What's On In Joburg

The Firebird

Directed by Janni Younge and choreographed by Jay Pather, Janni Younge’s The Firebird comes to Gauteng for the first time.

The production sets Stravinsky’s electrifying score to a contemporary South African fusion of larger-than-life puppetry and powerful dance.

A young woman’s quest to unleash her creative power becomes a breathtaking high-energy spectacle.
Towering puppet creatures, dynamic choreography, and one of the greatest orchestral scores ever written build to a rousing climax as the magnificent Firebird takes flight.

Cost: R150pp to R580pp, book via Webtickets

When: Friday, 4 December at 7.30pm. Saturday, 5 December at 11am, 3pm and 7.30pm. Sunday, 6 December at 11am and 3pm
Where: The Teatro, Montecasino, , 1 Montecasino Blvd, Magaliessig, Johannesburg

WGRUV Dance Company - Angels in Africa | What's On In Joburg

WGRUV Dance Company – Angels in Africa

WGRUV’s Season 3 finale, Angels In Africa draws together three works of historical depth and spiritual imagination, offered as a family-friendly celebration for the festive season.

The evening opens with Reverence, set to Robert Schumann’s Symphonic Studies, Op. 13. Choreographer Jessica Lang describes the work as “my definition of ballet” – a piece built to be experienced rather than explained.

The production continues with Prayer, an imaginative work by Lex and Holly Gruver, inviting audiences to look beyond the obvious, communicating depth and soul through movement known to WGRUV’s contemporary style – a piece built to lift the mind toward what is unseen and eternal.

The programme closes with the South African premiere of Diversion of Angels, the landmark 1948 ballet by American modern dance pioneer Martha Graham. Staged in the Martha Graham Dance Company’s centennial year, the work traces the stages of love – adolescent, romantic and mature.

Cost: R120pp – R300pp, book via Webtickets

When: Friday, 18 December at 7pm. Saturday, 19 December at 3pm, and Sunday, 20 December at 3pm
Where: Main Theatre at Roodepoort Theatre, 100 Christiaan de Wet Rd, Florida Park, Roodepoort

Mzansi Ballet presents The Ginger who lost his Christmas Spark | What's On In Joburg

Mzansi Ballet presents The Ginger who lost his Christmas Spark

Mzansi Ballet presents a brand-new Christmas adventure for the whole family.

The story tells the tale of a magical bakery where gingerbread cookies are made, snowflakes dance, and Christmas sparkle fills the air that loses its sparkle.

Then a little girl makes a special Christmas wish, asking for the Gingerbread Man to find his sparkle again. What follows is a magical Christmas wonderland filled with snow, ballet, hip-hop battles, mischievous magic, and a mysterious Christmas Sparkle ballerina.

Cost: R200pp – R350pp, book via Webtickets

When: Running from 23 December to 10 January 2027. Various days, from 11am, 3pm and 7.30pm
Where: Pieter Toerien Theatre, Montecasino, 1 Montecasino Blvd, Magaliessig, Johannesburg


KIDS & FAMILY ACTIVITIES


Avengers Doomsday Victor von Doom | What's on in Joburg
Victor von Doom in ‘Avengers: Doomsday’

Avengers: Doomsday

Following the record-breaking Avengers: Endgame released in 2019, Marvel studios is bringing the latest in the Avengers franchise with Avengers: Doomsday.

In the film, the X-Men, Avengers and Fantastic Four join forces to deal with a problem that has detrimental effects on the multiverse. The main villain in the film is Victor von Doom, who has been confirmed to be played by Robert Downey Jr., best known for his role as the beloved Iron Man character.

When: Avengers: Doomsday opens in theatres on 18 December 2026
Where: Confirmed for screenings at Ster Kinekor and Nu Metro cinemas nationwide

Dr. Seuss's How the Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical | What's On In Joburg

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 2026
Where: National Children’s Theatre, 3 Junction Ave, Parktown, Johannesburg

A buck-shaped light installation

Christmas comes alive at the Festival of Lights

The annual Joburg Festival of Lights is back again this November. 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 2026 to 3 January 2027. Thursday to Sunday from 7pm to 10pm
Where: Johannesburg Zoo and Shop U 30 Keyes, Jellicoe Ave, Rosebank, Johannesburg

Check out these top things to do with kids in Johannesburg


DECEMBER EXPERIENCES


Joseph Young (left) and Maxim Vengerov (right)

Mzansi Meets the World

Mzansi National Philharmonic Orchestra takes the stage in Mzansi Meets the World, with globally renowned violinist Maxim Vengerov joining as the soloist on this fifth anniversary national tour, performing the magnificent Brahms’ Violin Concerto in D Major.

The extraordinary programme also showcases a groundbreaking South African composition before culminating in the dramatic Saint-Saëns’ Symphony No. 3 (Organ Symphony). The national orchestra performs under the baton of acclaimed international conductor Joseph Young.

Cost: From R200pp, book via Quicket

When: Thursday, 3 December at 7.30pm
Where: Linder Auditorium, Wits Education Campus, 27 St Andrews Rd, Parktown, Johannesburg

J Cole The Fall Off World Tour by David Peters | What's on in Joburg
Image by David Peters

J. Cole ‘The Fall Off World Tour’

Following the release of his latest album, ‘The Fall Off’, international rap sensation J. Cole is set to embark on his The Fall Off World Tour, spanning North America, Europe, the UK, Australia, and New Zealand, and ending right here in Mzansi.

The Fall-Off Tour is J. Cole’s first solo headline tour in five years, following 2021’s The Off-Season Tour, and his first full global run in nearly a decade since the 2017 4 Your Eyez Only World Tour.

The global run supports J. Cole’s seventh studio album, ‘The Fall Off’, which was released on 6 February 2026 via Cole World, Inc., under exclusive license to Interscope Records.

From much-beloved older classics like ‘Who Dat’, ‘She Knows’, ‘Nobody’s Perfect’, ‘Power Trip’ and ‘Love Yourz’ to more recent hits in his latest release such as ‘Poor Thang’ and ‘The Let Out’, he brings an arsenal of chart-toppers for his only concert stop on the African continent this 2026.

Cost: From R715pp, book via Ticketmaster

When: Saturday, 12 December 2026 from 6pm
Where: FNB Stadium, Soccer City Ave, Nasrec, Johannesburg

Fatboy Slim Performs in South Africa | What's On In Joburg

Fatboy Slim

Electronic music legend Fatboy Slim returns to South Africa, fifteen years after his last visit, with the British DJ and producer bringing one of dance music’s most celebrated live shows back to Joburg.

Born Norman Cook, Fatboy Slim is a global festival favourite and has produced some of dance music’s most recognisable anthems, including “Praise You”, “Right Here, Right Now”, “The Rockafeller Skank” and “Weapon of Choice”.

His most recent album, ‘Right Here, In The Desert’, was released in April 2026 and is currently on a world tour, performing across the UK, Spain, Brazil, and the United States.

Joburg festivalgoers can look forward to his high-energy performances, infectious crowd interaction, and a catalogue of era-defining hits that helped shape the big beat movement of the late 1990s and early 2000s.

Cost: R500pp-R700pp | R850pp-R1500pp (VIP standing) | R2000-R2500 (tables), book via Howler

When: Saturday, 12 December 2026 from 12pm – 10pm
Where: James & Ethel Gray Park, Edgewood Avenue &, Melrose St, Melrose, Johannesburg

comedy in Johannesburg | What's On in Joburg

Andre, the Hilarious Hypnotist

A festive season favourite returns as Andre The Hilarious Hypnotist brings another round of comedy, audience participation and mind-bending entertainment to Montecasino. Known for his fast-paced, interactive performances, Andre’s long-running show has become something of a year-end tradition, blending hypnosis with laugh-out-loud moments that keep audiences coming back season after season.

Perfect for family outings, group celebrations and end-of-year office parties, the experience is driven almost entirely by audience participation, meaning no two performances are ever the same. Volunteers from the crowd become part of the show as Andre guides them through a series of hilarious hypnosis routines, unpredictable challenges and spontaneous comedic moments.

Guests should note that children under 16 may not participate in the hypnosis segments, and the Studio Theatre unfortunately does not offer disabled access due to stairs.

Cost: From R150pp to R180pp, book via Webtickets

When: Running from 4 December to 31 January 2027, various times
Where: Studio Theatre At Montecasino, Montecasino Blvd, Fourways, Johannesburg

Lucky Daye and Baby Rose at Once Upon A Time in Joburg | What's On In Joburg

Once Upon a Time in Joburg

Once Upon A Time In Joburg presents a music-filled day with Lucky Daye, Smino and Baby Rose, and more incredible artists.

Hailing from New Orleans, Louisiana, singer-songwriter Lucky Daye continues to redefine the R&B landscape by blending classic soul with a slick edge. Known for his pristine vocals and deeply vulnerable songwriting, audiences can expect music that feels both nostalgic and futuristic.

Joining the Grammy Award winner is rapper and singer Smino, who is celebrated for his signature blend of hip-hop, soul, and funk. With his complex wordplay and sultry vocals, concertgoers are sure to experience a unique live performance.

Baby Rose, an acclaimed American neo-soul singer, songwriter, and producer, adds to the setlist. Known for her mesmerising, low-ranging contralto voice and emotionally charged delivery, she transforms a simple, yet incredible live performance into an emotionally rich, spiritual experience.

Cost: From R750pp | R1500pp (VIP) | R1750pp (VIP Crew of 4) | R6000pp (VVIP Viewing Deck Access) | R6500pp (VVIP Viewing Deck Access – Group of Four). Book via Howler.

When: Saturday, 3 December 2026 from 12pm to 6pm
Where: Johannesburg Botanical Gardens, Olifants Road, Emmarentia

Sean Paul Live at Sunbet | What's on in Joburg

Sean Paul

Global dancehall and reggae hitmaker Sean Paul returns to Joburg in two decades for a three-stop South African tour. 

A Grammy Award winner and one of the most influential and instantly recognizable voices in music history, Sean Paul will ignite Sunbet Arena with a high-energy live show packed with chart-topping anthems that have dominated dance floors, festivals and airwaves around the world.

From global smash hits including “Get Busy”, “I’m Still in Love with You”, “Temperature” and “We Be Burnin’” to era-defining collaborations like “Baby Boy”, Sean Paul has created a catalogue that reads like the ultimate party playlist. 

With a career spanning over three decades, his songs have defined generations. His unmistakable voice, genre-crossing sound and commanding stage presence continue to move audiences around the world.

Note that no u/3s are permitted and no u/12s will be allowed in the Golden Circle and General Standing areas. 

Cost: From R750pp, book via Blu Blood

When: Friday, 4 December. Doors open at 6pm. The show starts at 8pm with a local supporting act before Sean Paul performs at 9pm.
Where: Sunbet Arena at Time Square Casino, 209 Aramist Ave, Waterkloof Glen, Pretoria

Kwa Gogo DBN Gogo | What's on in Joburg

Kwa Gogo festival

Kwa Gogo is a celebration of South African music, lifestyle, and culture through the creative lens of one of the nation’s most dynamic DJs.

Known for her powerful Amapiano sound and bold presence, DBN Gogo curates an immersive experience that mirrors her journey and global impact. Kwa Gogo 2025 blends music, art, and fashion into one expressive moment; a vibrant tribute to her roots and achievements.

This year’s lineup features DBN Gogo herself along with other incredible, award-winning, chart-topping South African performers

Cost: R150pp to R300pp, book via Webtickets

When: Tuesday, 16 December from 12pm
Where: Constitution Hill Human Rights Precinct, Kotze Street, Braamfontein, Johannesburg

Kehlani Tour in December | What's On In Joburg

Kehlani ft. Special Guest Destin Conrad

Two-time Grammy Award-winning R&B powerhouse vocalist Kehlani is returning to South Africa following the release of their latest album, ‘KEHLANI’. The ‘Folded’ singer is set to embark on their KEHLANI WORLD TOUR this August, spanning North America, Europe, the UK, Australia, and New Zealand, and ending right here in Gauteng.

This will be the second time that the singer-songwriter has performed in Johannesburg, doing so at the now-closed SUMO Nightclub for an after-party of the Cape Town-based festival, Rocking The Daisies.

Having risen to fame as the lead singer of the group PopLyfe on America’s Got Talent, the sultry singer is praised for effortlessly blending smooth neo-soul and R&B with energetic dance-pop, creating hits like “Honey”, “Distractions” and “Nights Like This”.

Known for their silky vocal runs, vulnerable lyricism, and smooth stage presence, Kehlani is set to give Joburgers a great show, alongside special guest Destin Conrad, a teen social media star turned Grammy-nominated R&B and pop singer-songwriter.

Cost: R1425pp (standing) | R800pp – R1690pp (seated) | R3320pp -R3690pp (platinum) | R4295pp -R4770pp (VIP). Book via Ticketmaster.

When: Tuesday, 15 December 2026, from 8pm
Where: Sunbet Arena at Time Square Casino, 209 Aramist Ave, Waterkloof Glen, Pretoria

Best of Both Worlds 2026 | What's On In Joburg

Best of Both Worlds

From South African house music award-winning superstar DJ Shimza comes Best of Both Worlds – a music festival featuring South Africa’s most successful genres across two stages in one single night.

Afro House, Amapiano, Lekompo, and Gqom remain among South Africa’s most celebrated genres, and Best of Both Worlds bridges them, platforming the stars that continue to elevate each genre. Afro House and Amapiano take over one stage, and leading the union are the genres’ most celebrated icons, including Black Coffee, Shimza, Sun-El Musician, DJ Maphorisa, Darque, Desiree, Kabza De Small, Kelvin Momo, Zee Nxumalo, Njelic, and Tman Express.

On the second stage, Gqom’s energy meets Lekompo’s regional sounds, featuring performances from DJ Tira, Dlala Thukzin, DJ Lag, Distruction Boyz, Dankie Boi, Mgilane, King Monada, Makhadzi, Shandesh, Naqua, Hitboss, Natiey Lepaka, and Tribal King.

Whether it’s Afro House’s deep grooves, Gqom’s explosive drops, or Amapiano’s high energy, each set has something for everyone, and it truly delivers the best of both when it comes to Mzansi music.

Cost: From R500pp | R1000 (Jack Daniels Bundle + 2 GA tickets) | R1000pp (VIP) | From R1750 (tables). Book via Howler

When: Wednesday, 16 December from 12pm to midnight
Where: Heartfelt Arena, 1000 Voortrekker Rd, Thaba Tshwane, Pretoria

Limp Bizkit at FNB Stadium In South Africa | What's On In Joburg

Limp Bizkit

22 years after their cancelled show, Grammy-nominated and MTV Video Music Award-winning nu-metal band Limp Bizkit is set to perform in South Africa for the first time.

The band – lead vocalist Fred Durst, guitarist Wes Borland, turntablist DJ Lethal, and drummer John Otto (founding bassist Sam Rivers passed away in 2025) – are known for their blend of rock, metal, and hip hop, as well as hits like “Nookie”, “Rolling”, “My Way”, and “Behind Blue Eyes”.

They released their most recent album, “Still Sucks”, in 2021 and are currently on a world tour, performing their classic songs and most recent hits across Europe and North America, with plans to end right here in Johannesburg.

Cost: R975pp-R1650pp (standing) | R1095pp – R1595pp (seated) | R2426pp – R3468pp (platinum). Book via Ticketmaster.

When: Sunday, 13 December 2026 from 6pm
Where: FNB Stadium, Soccer City Ave, Nasrec, Johannesburg

Brandy Live in South Africa | What's On In Joburg

Brandy

13x Grammy Award nominee and multi-platinum-selling global R&B superstar Brandy headlines the 2026 All White Soul Sessions Concert Tour Experience, joining the likes of Babyface, Dru Hill, and Brian McKnight, who have each headlined the experience.

Having sold over 40 million records worldwide, Brandy is one of the most successful female artists of all time and is affectionately known as “The Vocal Bible”.

She emerged as a teenage sensation in 1994 with her 4x-platinum self-titled debut album and has continued to captivate audiences over the years with era-defining projects like 1998’s 16x-platinum Never Say Never, 2002’s Full Moon, 2020’s b7, and 2023’s Christmas with Brandy.

Each chart-topping album cemented her status as a genre-defining icon and featured timeless songs like “The Boy Is Mine”, “Have You Ever”, “Another Day In Paradise”, “Sitting Up In My Room”, “Afrodisiac”, “Almost Doesn’t Count”, “Come a Little Closer”, and “Full Moon”.

With this concert experience, audiences enjoy a nostalgic night filled with great vocals, incredible music and new memories.

Cost: R950pp – R2850pp, book via Webtickets.

When: Thursday, 17 December and Friday 18 December 2026, from 6pm
Where: Sunbet Arena at Time Square Casino, 209 Aramist Ave, Waterkloof Glen, Pretoria

Technics of the Page / The Last Human Reader | What's On In Joburg

Technics of the Page / The Last Human Reader

This exhibition invites us to view physical books in a brand-new way. Instead of just seeing paper and ink, the artists and curators want us to think of it as an early form of technology, which directly addresses our current moment in time, where artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly taking over how text is generated and processed.

As AI models continue to read and process millions of pages in seconds, the exhibition explores what happens to literature, poetry, and storytelling when machines start doing the reading and writing for us.

Cost: Free entry

When: Running from 8 October 2026 to February 2027 during the Art Museum’s opening hours, which are: Tuesday to Saturday, 10am to 4pm
Where: Jack Ginsberg Centre for Book Arts at the Wits Art Museum, University of the Witwatersrand, Cnr Jorissen and Bertha St, Johannesburg

Exhibitions showing at Wits Art Museum

dvsn atg Ndlala Grandeur Season 1 | What's On In Joburg

Ndlala Grandeur Season 1

Ndlala Grandeur Season 1 is a five-night R&B showcase featuring international musical powerhouses. The event follows Ndlala Grandeur II, a three-day celebration featuring acclaimed R&B stars Tyrese Gibson, Case, RL, Mýa and Ginuwine, alongside South African veterans Zonke and Vusi Nova.

This edition features Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter and television personality Tamar Braxton, Canadian R&B duo dvsn, and Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter Eric Benet.

Alongside the R&B acts is actor Ricco Ross, best known for his role as Horace Bellarie in Tyler Perry’s Netflix hit Beauty in Black. Marking his first visit to South Africa, Ross joins the festivities as the red-carpet and show co-host on 16 and 17 December.

Cost: R2000pp – R14 000pp, book online.

When: Wednesday, 16 December to Sunday, 20 December. Doors open at 3pm.
Where: Ndlala Arena, Ndlala Mall, Cnr Steve Biko & Pretorius Streets, Arcadia, Pretoria

French Montana | What's On In Joburg

French Montana + Guests

AFROTRAX, in partnership with PLAYY. Music brings one of global hip-hop’s most celebrated live performers, French Montana, to local audiences.

French Montana is one of the most recognisable names in international music. He last performed in Johannesburg in 2017, and has amassed billions of streams worldwide through hits including “Unforgettable”, “No Stylist,” “Pop That,” “Ain’t Worried About Nothin’,” and numerous collaborations with chart-topping artists such as Drake, The Weeknd, Post Malone, Cardi B, Swae Lee and Chris Brown.

Joining Montana is American rapper, singer, songwriter and record producer B.o.B, whose career has delivered a string of globally recognised hits, including “Nothin’ on You,” “Airplanes,” “Magic” and “HeadBand.” His distinctive blend of hip-hop, pop, soul and melodic songwriting has earned him international recognition and multiple major award nominations.

Alongside the international stars is a slew of South African artists, including Cassper Nyovest, Kabza De Small, Nasty C, Blxckie, YoungstaCPT, 25K, Jairic, Lucasraps, K.Keed, Rarri, Teddy Tumi, Kane DJ and Bassik.

The AFROTRAX series celebrates the intersection of African culture, music, fashion and global entertainment, delivering world-class experiences that connect international artists with Africa’s vibrant creative communities.

Cost: From R400pp | R1000pp (Golden Circle) | R3000pp (VIP). Book online.

When: Saturday, 5 December 2026 from 2pm – 11pm
Where: The Canvas, 8 Incubation Drive Riverside View Ext 15, Fourways, Midrand


FESTIVE MARKETS


Design Quarter Vintage Décor & Gifting Christmas Show | What's on in Joburg

The Pretoria Christmas & Decor Gift Show

Joburg’s biggest 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 2026 from 9am to 4pm daily
Where: Design Quarter Shopping Centre, William Nicol Dr &, Leslie Ave, Magaliessig, Sandton

More about this Christmas takeover

Secret Sunrise Holiday Night Market this December in Joburg | What's on in Joburg

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

The Field Market Christmas Edition | What's on in Joburg

The Field Market Christmas Edition

The popular Field Market is showcasing more of its local artisans, crafters, and food vendors for two special Christmas editions this festive season!

Visitors have the opportunity to interact with the creators and learn about their crafts in an atmosphere filled with Christmas cheer, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists looking for a taste of Johannesburg’s vibrant artisanal scene. There are also kids’ activities and a play area.

Plus, there are “Find the Elf” activities for all ages, Santa’s letter box, and a very special visit from Father Christmas! The location is dog-friendly and encourages dogs to be kept on a leash at all times. The location is dog-friendly and encourages dogs to be kept on a leash at all times.

Cost: TBC

When: TBC
Where: Field & Study Park, 11 Louise Avenue, Parkmore, Sandton, Johannesburg

Irene Village Festive Markets

Shop up a storm at Pretoria’s Vintage Christmas and Decor Market

Ramp up your Christmas shopping with Pretoria’s Vintage, Decor & Gift Show 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

Check out more Festive Markets here


CHRISTMAS DINING


The Maslow Sandton Lacuns Bistro | Whats on in Joburg

Christmas Eve Dinner + Christmas Day Lunch at Lacuna Bistro

Make this Christmas truly memorable with an indulgent fine dining experience at The Maslow. Executive Sous Chef Thokozane has curated a spectacular festive buffet that blends classic favourites with gourmet flair, the perfect way to celebrate with family and friends.

Cost: 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. 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

When: Thursday, 24 December 2026 from 6.30pm to 10pm. Friday, 25 December 2026 from 1pm to 4pm
Where: The Maslow Hotel – Lacuna Bistro, 146 Rivonia Rd, Sandown, Sandton

More Food and Drink experience at The Maslow

Dikeme Farms Fire Long Table | What's on in Joburg

Dikeme Farms Christmas Buffet Lunch

Gather for a unique Christmas lunch experience where farm-to-table meets festive tradition in this stunning UNESCO Heritage setting.

The Christmas Long Table Lunch series transforms the venue with festive decorations and a warm atmosphere, featuring a specially curated menu showcasing the best of the farm’s seasonal produce with creative culinary techniques that celebrate the holiday season with South African flair.

Guests arrive to festive welcome drinks before the Christmas buffet lunch service begins. Enjoy live holiday music performances, festive activities and farm explorations.

Cost: TBC

When: TBC
Where: Dikeme Farms, 2MMQ+FX Krugersdorp

The Blades rooftop deck

The Blades Hotel

Celebrate the magic of the season at The Blades Hotel’s annual Christmas Lunch Buffet, a festive day filled with joy, music, and mouthwatering delights.

The lunch features a complimentary welcome drink to kick off the celebration, a beautifully decorated Christmas tree, a small surprise gift for the little ones, music to set the festive mood, and a three-course feast to remember.

Cost: R695pp aged 13 and up; R295pp aged 2 to 12. Book via Quicket

When: Christmas Day – 25 December from 12pm to 5pm
Where: The Blades Hotel, 3 Blueberry St, Honeydew, Roodepoort

The top Christmas lunches in Joburg and surrounds


NEW YEAR’S EVE EVENTS


A mirror illusion at the Museum of Illusions

The Museum of Illusions Experience

The Museum of Illusions is home to a wide range of playful exhibitions, eye-catching visual experiences, educational displays, and optical illusions that change with perspective or trick the eyes, and Johannesburg is lucky enough to be the first South African city to welcome this immersive experience.

Open on New Year’s Eve, the museum invites guests to check out their 60 extraordinary exhibits and be amazed by optical illusions, visual tricks, and hands-on interactive displays.

Cost: R250pp (adults); R200pp (kids 4 to 12 and pensioners) | R770 (family bundle 2x kids and 2x adults) | Free (infants and toddlers u/4) | Book online

When: Monday to Sunday from 9am to 9pm. Open on 31 December
Where: The Zone @ Rosebank, 177 Oxford Road, Rosebank, Johannesburg

Revolution NYE

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

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