Win Big This Festive Season at Nelson Mandela Square

Nelson Mandela Square is curating fuss-free festive season shopping in Sandton this year with their signature selection of art, culture, exceptional shopping, and dining. Whether you’re popping in for some retail therapy or looking to try some of Joburg’s best restaurants, there’s much on offer including a chance to win amazing prizes. Here’s what you need to know before you go.

Unlock your festive season and win great prizes

Unlock Your Festive is an exciting spend-to-win campaign until 8 December 2024. Shoppers who spend R1,500 or more at any store in the centre stand the chance to score instant prizes as well as an additional chance to win the grand prize of R20,000.

To enter, keep your slips and visit the concierge station on the Lower Level, opposite Artyli Gallery.

Beat the crowds with extended shopping hours

Extended trading hours for festive season will make it easier than ever to enjoy all the special offerings at your own pace. Stores will remain open from 9am to 9pm, between 13 and 23 December to ensure enough time for gift shopping.

Shop sought-after fashion and accessories

Shoppers can look forward to over 70 curated retailers at Nelson Mandela Square this festive season, offering a handpicked selection of upmarket fashion, accessories, art, and more. New boutiques include classic and edgy high looks and accessories from the Karl Lagerfeld namesake label.

Support the SPCA at Nelson Mandela Square’s Gift Wrapping Station

Nelson Mandela Square’s gift wrapping station is running from 2 to 24 December 2024 and promises a touch of goodwill this year. All proceeds for the station are passed onto the SPCA to help with the work they do around pet and animal welfare.

Save time and leave your gifts in the capable hands of the team. The station is located next to Sorbet on the Lower Level.

Dine at some of the city’s leading restaurants

From sushi at The Big Mouth to top-tier South African steaks at The Butcher Shop and Grill, the dining options at the Square are endless. La Parada serves tapas and small plates with a dash of effortless style, while Calisto’s serves up Portuguese-inspired dishes that tantalise the palate.

For a more relaxed and lively vibey festive season, secure a reservation at one of the dining spots overlooking the piazza with festive twinkles. Don’t forget to try new additions at Nelson Mandela Square, Al Hamra and Habibi which both offer a taste of the Middle East. See our full guide to the top restaurants at Nelson Mandela Square.

Explore art and design

New sculptural works have been added to the Urban Echoes public art exhibition by celebrated artist Anton Smit in collaboration with graffiti artist, Mars. This collection features eight striking heads adorned with bold graffiti that captures Johannesburg’s urban heartbeat.

A further exhibition of art can be seen in the retail area, visitors can marvel at Smit’s In Moment Series and Whirlwind, adding elegance and dynamism to the Square’s aesthetic. These exhibits seamlessly blend art and community, making Nelson Mandela Square an open-air gallery unlike any other.

Design lovers should diarise the Antique Fair happening on the First Sunday of every month. The fair is hosted by the country’s seasoned collectors, and shoppers are welcome to take along precious heirlooms for free valuation. On offer are glass ornaments, chinoiserie, jewellery, retro cameras, and fine art.