This festive season, Nelson Mandela Square is honing in on their status as one of the best places for upmarket shopping in Johannesburg with a lineup of unique experiences. The Square houses some of the country’s most sought-after fashion boutiques, homeware stores, and dining spots. Their open-air piazza is where art and entertainment will merge beautifully for the whole family to enjoy this holiday with a six-metre statue of Nelson Mandela.
‘It really is the most wonderful time of the year and Nelson Mandela Square is ready to welcome visitors who would like to shop, dine or simply unwind in this splendid space,’ shares Brian Unsted, Nelson Mandela Square’s Asset Manager. ‘The festive tunnel and Dior tree will add extraordinary points of interest, complementing the Square’s prestigious retail and lifestyle offerings superbly,’ he adds.
Get your selfie at the stunning new lighting tunnel activation
The square is activating a mesmerising 10-metre-long lighting tunnel that will be illuminated throughout December. Gather your friends and family and snap your festive-themed photos at this picture-perfect backdrop.
Your last chance to explore graffiti art sculptures on the piazza
The Urban Echoes art exhibition features eight larger-than-life Easter Island-inspired sculptures by Anton Smit, each with graffiti by artist Mars. The art showcase is still available to enjoy, with live entertainment on selected dates during December.
Each viewpoint alters the individually painted heads, which resemble Johannesburg’s urban fabric and changes the sculptures into a painted landscape. When viewed as a collective, the completed collection resembles a large mural depicting ‘Life in Jo’burg,’ in a way never seen before.
See the epic, new Dior Christmas Tree
The Christmas tree installation has been a standing affair at Nelson Mandela Square over the past years. This year, a majestic 7.2-metre-tall Dior Christmas tree decorated with bespoke craftsmanship will add a touch of luxury to your visit.
This magnificent creation is more than just a tree. It’s a testament to the artistry and dedication that the couture brand brings to every aspect of its craftsmanship and features custom-made trinkets, PVC and gold vinyl flowers and lighting that creates a play of light and shadows, all topped with the signature Dior logo and star.
Fine food and drink at some of Johannesburg’s best restaurants
Dine and later unwind this holiday. Nelson Mandela Square is home to some of South Africa’s most celebrated and loved restaurants, including a brand-new La Parada space. Tuck into Asian-fusion cuisine from TANG Sandton, decadent desserts and confectionery from Just Teddy, and premium grills from either Trumps Grillhouse & Butchery or The Butchershop & Grill.
Most of the centre’s restaurants including Calistos, Cilantros, Hard Rock Café, Nonnas Italian Kitchen, Pappas on the Square, Shazmins, Tashas, The Big Mouth, The Raj or will all be open this festive season for celebratory meals with family and friends. For those on the go, Strada and Roccomama are safe bets for delicious takeaways.
Find the perfect gift at top boutique stores at Nelson Mandela Square
If you’re pressed for time and still looking for thoughtful, good-quality gifting ideas, Nelson Mandela Square offers a retail sector with over 60 exclusive and celebrated stores.
There are a slew of boutique retail outlets that recently opened such as Café Coton, Mario Casas, X-ceptions and Lou Lou Boutique. Plus Aeronautica Militare underwent a revamp to showcase its signature collection of casualwear with authentic logos by the Italian Air Force.
When: Monday to Thursday, 9am to 7pm. Friday and Saturday, 9am to 8pm. Sunday and Public Holidays, 9am to 6pm
Where: Nelson Mandela Square, 5th Street, Sandton
Tel: 011 217 6000
Website: nelsonmandelasquare.co.za
Facebook: @nelsonmandelasquare
Instagram: @nelsonmandelasquare
