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 pay as we will be updating it all through the festive season!
Gin-Gle Bar Infusion Workshop Experience
Village View officially launches its exclusive Gin-Gle Bar Infusion Workshop Experience, a limited-time festive pop-up event designed to immerse guests in a world of creativity, flavour, and holiday cheer.
Attendees enjoy a hands-on, professionally guided infusion workshop experience, learning how to create delicious, stirred spirits. Workshop guests also receive festive goodies to take home, marking a perfect way to start the holiday season.
The first 20 guests to book the pop-up experience receive complimentary Sorbet and Franco International vouchers, adding an extra touch of festive delight, so be sure to book your place fast!
Plus, every ticket holder is automatically entered into a lucky draw to win a romantic dinner for two at any Village View restaurant of their choice, bringing even more magic to this joyful celebration.
Cost: R175pp, book via Quicket
When: Thursday to Tuesday, 11 to 16 December. Workshop sessions from 11am to 12.30pm, 1pm to 2.30pm, 1.30pm to 3pm, and/or 3pm to 4pm on various days.
Where: Village View Shopping Centre, 41 Van Buuren Rd, Bedfordview, Germiston
The Jingle Bell Academy at Fourways Mall
The centrepiece of Fourways Mall’s festive programme this year is the return of Santa Land, now themed as The Jingle Bell Academy, a playful training ground where children can discover what it really takes to become Santa’s little helpers.
At the Academy, the kids become young trainees, journeying through various exciting Christmas houses. Each stop introduces them to a different part of elf training, building up to their moment of “graduation” with Santa.
Activities include cookie decorating, scooting through a magical chimney, practicing stacking presents
without waking anyone, writing letters explaining why they would make excellent elves, and listening to the
gentle story of an elf’s journey.
Along the way the young ones will enjoy festive face painting, explore a variety of toys, browse a little Christmas shopping and engage in lively activations from Exclusive Books and Oh My Cake. The experience ends with a photograph with Santa to seal the memory.
Cost: From R50pp, book via Quicket
When: Running from 10 to 24 December 2025 from 9am to 8pm daily. The sessions are divided into 1.5 hour-long slots.
Where: Fourways Mall, 11 Ruby Cl, Witkoppen, Fourways, Sandton
The full festive programme at Fourways Mall
Take a trip through Candy Cane Lane at Eastgate Shopping Centre
In this exciting Christmas escape, shoppers of all ages will get to sample reindeer-themed ice cream, try their luck at the North Pole claw machine, step into Rudolph’s Gaming Station or enjoy festive face painting.
To take the fun up a notch, choose from two optional add-on experiences! At the Christmas Cottage, presented by Krispy Kreme and Lotus Biscoff, visitors can decorate a doughnut using a DIY kit that includes toppings and treats. Nearby, the Sweet Wall bauble making station enables visitors to fill and design a personalised sweet-filled bauble, making for a lovely keepsake or gift.
Cost: R50pp for the basic Candy Cane Lane experience (plus an additional R50 for each add-on activity). Purchase at the activation area
When: Running from 10 to 24 December 2025 from 10am to 6pm daily
Where: Strelitzia Court, Eastgate Shopping Centre, 43 Bradford Rd, Bedfordview, Germiston
More festive activities at Eastgate Shopping Centre
Christmas Karma in cinemas
Christmas Karma offers a musical retelling of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol, set in contemporary London and sprinkled with themes of poverty, racism and transformation.
Mr. Sood (Kunal Nayyar) is our modern-day Scrooge, who we follow on an unforgettable journey with the three Ghosts of Christmas (Eva Longoria, Billy Porter, Boy George), who help him confront his demons and discover that kindness is the real meaning of Christmas.
Christmas Karma opens at various Ster-Kinekor and Nu metro cinemas across the country from 28 November 2025.
More about this festive film
Sandton City’s City of Enchantment
Visitors step into a festive world shaped by imagination and wonder, with various interactive activities to incite holiday joy at the City of Enchantment.
Children can participate in various festive activities and will simply need to choose the activities that inspire them most and let the magic begin. Children visiting the City of Enchantment must be accompanied by an adult or guardian.
Along the way, families also get to discover sweet touches including Santa’s wishing well, a drawbridge that leads them into his world and a charming reindeer merry go round.
Adults who need a quiet pause can visit the Château Gâteaux pop-up where hot and cold drinks will be available, along with indulgent slices of cake. Whole cakes can be also purchased to take home, making festive gatherings with loved ones a little sweeter.
Cost: The activities range from R50 to R200 for the full experience. Register and pay at the activation entrance
When: Running from 5 to 28 December 2025. Open daily from 9am to 6pm
Where: Sandton City Centre Court, 83 Rivonia Rd, Sandhurst, Sandton
See all the festive activities at Sandton City
Festive Shopping & Spa Escape
Stay at Hotel Sky Sandton and enjoy the perfect city getaway with:
- R1000 Sandton City Gift Card for your festive shopping spree
- 30% off Spa Massages to relax and recharge
- Stylish stay with dining and all the festive vibes of Sandton
Cost: Rates from R2200 per night (Single Occupancy); R2250 per night (Double Occupancy). Book via email at [email protected] or tel at 010 880 4449
When: Offer valid from 12 December 2025 to 11 January 2026
Where: Hotel Sky Sandton, 150 West St, Sandown, Sandton
More at Hotel Sky
What Santa Sees
Experience a little Christmas magic at the Wits Anglo American Digital Dome every Saturday during the kids show this festive season.
What Santa Sees is a magical planetarium show that brings the festive sky to life. It’s Christmas Eve, and Santa has an important job to do. Join the reindeers and discover the night sky through Santa’s eyes: from the shining moon to changing constellations and shooting stars.
This gorgeous show produced by the International Centre for Life from Newcastle, UK, combines storytelling and astronomy, taking the audience on an enchanting festive journey. Designed for young viewers, it will captivate adults and children alike.
Cost: R40pp for kids and pensioners, R70pp for adults. Book via Webtickets
When: Running from 15 November to 20 December. Select Saturdays at 10am (book with 3-2-1 Liftoff! or Mysteries of Your Brain)
Where: Digital Dome, East Campus, University of the Witwatersrand, Yale Rd, Braamfontein, Johannesburg
Shows on at the Digital Dome
Gatsby – A Cirque Extravaganza
The Cirk is proud to present a restaging of their onstage spectacular Gatsby – A Cirque Extravaganza. Step into the dazzling world of the Roaring Twenties with this acrobatic blast into the past. This immersive theatrical experience brings glamour, excess, and tragic romance to life with a breathtaking fusion of circus and dance.
A cast of acrobats soar above in a magnificent display of aerial skills, while contortionists and dancers weave through the stage, embodying the spirit of Gatsby’s legendary parties. Each act unfolds to immerse you in the grandeur of the 20’s Jazz Age, inspired by iconic scenes from the hit Baz Luhrmann film, The Great Gatsby (2013).
What’s on in Joburg readers receive 25% off all tickets from 24 to 31 October, and 1 November. Use CODE WHATSONGATSBY when booking via Koid below.
Cost: R180pp to R320pp, book via Koid
When: Running from 18 October 2025 to 31 January 2026. Friday and Saturday at 7pm and Sunday at 2pm
Where: The Cirk, Shop L205a, Cresta Shopping Centre, Cnr Beyers Naude and Weltervreden Road, Randburg
Destination Christmas at Melrose Arch
The festive season at Melrose Arch begins with their Official Annual Christmas Lights Launch, marking the start of Destination Christmas, a season filled with wonder and celebration running until 4 January 2026.
Stroll through dazzling light displays and enjoy engaging activities for children, from glow bikes, a roller rink, toys, sweets and treats stalls, and face painting to creative play; and experience the joy of alfresco dining under the stars in the heart of the precinct.
Cost: Free entry
When: Running from 14 November to 4 January 2026. Light switch-on is on Friday, 14 November from 7pm
Where: Melrose Blvd, Johannesburg
Schalk Bezuidenhout’s Krismis Bonanza
Santa’s little helper, Schalk Bezuidenhout, puts on a Christmas variety show for the holiday season.
The show features some holiday hilarity and Christmas shenanigans that are guaranteed to get the audience in the holiday spirit. The entire line-up is a surprise with some big names set to grace the stage, along with some brand-new acts that hope to make their own comedic stamp.
This show is truly the best Christmas gift. Note that no under 16s are allowed entry.
Cost: From R300pp, book via Quicket
When: Friday to Sunday, 14 to 16 November | Friday at 7pm. Saturday and Sunday at 4pm and 7pm
Where: Theatre On The Square, Nelson Mandela Square, West St, Sandown, Sandton
More comedy in Joburg
Janice Honeyman’s Pinocchio Panto
South Africa’s most beloved holiday theatre tradition returns as the legendary Janice Honeyman stages her 38th annual pantomime with an all-new magical production of Pinocchio.
Janice Honeyman brings Carlo Collodi’s classic story to life with her signature sparkle filled with humor, warmth, and life lessons about honesty, courage, and kindness.
Join Pinocchio, the little puppet with a big dream, as he journeys through wild adventures featuring circus magic, puppet shows, pirate ships, techno-trains, and a lively cast of unforgettable characters, from the wise Jiminy Cricket to the cheeky Pussy Galore.
Cost: R160pp to R380pp, book via Webtickets
When: Running from 29 October to 24 December. Various days at 11am, 12pm, 3pm, 4pm and 7pm
Where: Mandela Theatre at Joburg Theatre, 163 Civic Blvd, Braamfontein, Johannesburg
Top things to do with kids
Christmas comes alive at the Festival of Lights
The annual Johannesburg Festival of Lights opens just in time for December in Joburg and features an enchanting collection of illuminated life-size animal characters, harmonious entertainment, and a food and craft night market for visitors at the Johannesburg Zoo.
Patrons can enjoy a tranquil walk in the zoo on a designated lit route away from the animals under trees decorated in enchanting lights.
Cost: R175pp (adults); R75pp (kids aged 3 to 12); R100pp (pensioners); free entry for kids u/3. Book via Webtickets
When: Running from 27 November 2025 to 4 January 2026 | Thursdays to Sundays from 7pm to 10pm
Where: Johannesburg Zoo, Jan Smuts Ave, Parkview, Randburg
The Christmas Village at Emperor’s Palace
The Christmas Village at Emperors Palace is a festive wonderland that brings holiday magic to life for visitors of all ages. This is the ultimate holiday spectacle with lights, characters, shops, games and even Santa himself.
There are various attractions at The Christmas Village, including The North Pole, the Magical Enchanted Forest, The Garden of Light, Tombola Alley where guests stop and have some good, old fashioned fun and games, and Stone Town where 90 Christmas merchants offer a diverse range of food, gifts and goodies await you.
Cost: R75 to R90pp aged 13+; R65 to R75pp for pensioners; R45 to R60pp for kids aged 3 to 12. Book via Webtickets
When: Running from 3 to 31 December 2025. Time Slots: 2pm to 5pm & 6pm to 9pm
Where: 5th level of the Emperors Palace Parking Structure, 64 Jones Rd, Kempton Park, Johannesburg
Central Lights Christmas World Sandton
Central Square Sandton is hosting a festive season celebration from November to January, filled with dazzling light shows, life-sized dinosaurs, a beautiful Nativity Scene, artificial snow, and a chance to meet Santa! Visitors can enjoy craft stalls, restaurants and cafes at the park.
Cost: From R39pp; Rides and activities from R25 per person/rides or activity. Book online
When: Running from 28 November 2025 to 4 January 2026. Activities available from 9am to 10pm
Where: Central Square Sandton, 5 Lower Rd, Morningside, Sandton
Cape Ballet Africa presents The Nutcracker
Staged by renowned London-based choreographer Maina Gielgud and with magnificent sets designed by Michael Mitchell, The Nutcracker captures the wonder and joy of the festive spirit.
Maina Gielgud is a hugely experienced choreographer. She has danced with companies around the world, including Sadlers Wells Royal Ballet, Scottish Ballet, Australian Ballet, Ballet Nacional de Cuba, CAPAB, PACT, and the London Festival Ballet. She was also the director/associate director of the Australian Ballet, Royal Danish Ballet, and Houston Ballet.
Michael Mitchell’s designs for productions including Madama Butterfly, Carmen, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, The Magic Flute, Porgy and Bess, and Mandela Trilogy have been enjoyed by audiences in, among other places, the London Coliseum, the Teatro Real Madrid, the Teatro Colón in Buenos Aires, and the Maifestspiele in Wiesbaden.
Cost: R220pp to R690pp, book via Webtickets
When: Thursday, 4 December to Sunday, 21 December. Various times
Where: Teatro at Monte Casino, Teatro Road, 1 Montecasino Blvd, Fourways, Johannesburg
Musicals and Stage Shows
Rosebank Sunday Market Christmas Sundays
Open every Sunday of the year, the Rosebank Sunday Market has become the go-to place for Joburgers to find everything from wonderful crafts to delightful food, and for one month this festive season, they host their very own Christmas Sundays Markets.
Expect the most unique, affordable hand-crafted gifts made with love, curated stalls selling local and handmade products and Christmas gifts, festive décor, and live music.
These special Christmas markets also include market staples that Joburg residents have come to expect, including a drinks selection featuring craft beer, cocktails, gin bar, wine, and liqueur, gourmet food and beverage stalls, and live music.
Cost: Free
When: Every Sunday from 16 November to 21 December 2025 from 9am to 4pm
Where: Level 4 undercover parking, Rosebank Mall, 50 Bath Ave, Rosebank, Johannesburg
See more Christmas Markets in Gauteng
Christmas Lunch Buffet at Epsom Restaurant & Kgotla Venue
Gather your loved ones and join Indaba Hotel for a magical Christmas Day Lunch Buffet at Epsom Restaurant and Kgotla Venue.
The day includes: a special lunch buffet filled with festive favourites and Christmas treats, a welcome drink on arrival, a Christmas cracker and hat for every guest, a Mowana Spa discount voucher per adult, live entertainment, and a lucky prize draw.
There’s also kids’ entertainment and a colouring-in competition. Plus, a special visit from Father Christmas.
Cost: R795 per adult; R395 per child aged 6 to 12 years; R115 per child aged 3 to 5 years; children aged 2 and under eat for free. Book via [email protected]
When: Christmas Day – 25 December from 12pm
Where: Epsom Restaurant, and Kgotla Venue at Indaba Hotel, Spa and Conference Centre, cnr. William Nicol & Pieter Wenning Road, Fourways, Johannesburg
The top Christmas Lunches in Joburg and surrounds
The Jingle Belles
The Jingle Belles, produced by Origen Productions, written and directed by Emma Amber, and featuring choreography by Hannah Van Lennep, is set to dazzle audiences with its nostalgic charm, heart, and holiday cheer.
This enchanting new production transports audiences to the late 1960s for a toe-tapping Christmas celebration like no other. Set around Springfield High’s annual tree-decorating ceremony, four vivacious young women take centre stage as they prepare to entertain their community, and in doing so, fill hearts with laughter, warmth, and a touch of sparkle.
With a glittering repertoire of festive favourites including “Rocking Around the Christmas Tree,” “Santa Baby,” “Jingle Bell Rock,” “Santa Claus is Coming to Town,” and many more, The Jingle Belles offers an irresistible blend of humour, harmony, and heartfelt moments.
Cost: R180pp to R200pp, book via Webtickets
When: Running from 2 to 14 December | Tuesday to Friday at 7.30pm; Saturday at 5pm and 8pm; Sunday at 2pm or 3pm
Where: Theatre on the Square, Nelson Mandela Square, West St, Sandown, Sandton
Madagascar – A Musical Adventure JR.
Peoples Theatre is delighted to announce their spectacular end-of-year production, Madagascar – A Musical Adventure JR.
This humorous adventure of a musical promises to bring a fun-filled festive season to audiences of all ages. Based on the smash-hit DreamWorks animated film, Madagascar – A Musical Adventure JR. follows fans’ favourite crack-a-lackin’ friends as they escape from their home in New York’s Central Park Zoo and find themselves on an unexpected journey to the madcap world of King Julien’s Madagascar.
Cost: R175pp, book via Webtickets
When: Running from 4 November to 24 December 2025
Where: The Peoples Theatre at Joburg Theatre, Cnr Hoofd street and, Civic Blvd, Braamfontein, Johannesburg
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: From R800pp (festival pass); from R1100pp (Campervan/rooftop tent tickets or VIP tickets). Book via Webtickets
When: Tuesday to Thursday, 30 December 2025 to 1 January 2026. From 11am on 30 December
Where: Hornbill Lodge, Cnr R24 & R563, Magaliesburg
Hyde Park Corner’s Tree Lighting Festival
Hyde Park Corner is kickstarting the festive season with their Tree Lighting Festival, set to bring an evening of music and festive magic to local shoppers.
Audiences can enjoy performances from Swing City, featuring Graeme Watkins and Nathan Ro, The Soweto Gospel Choir, and the Mzansi Ballet, who perform enchanting festive scenes from The Nutcracker, Teddy Bear’s Picnic and ‘The Bare Necessities’ from The Jungle Book.
Happening alongside the light festival is the unveiling of the Moët & Chandon Personalisation Pop-Up. Guests are offered the opportunity to experience the renowned French brand in an intimate setting, with complimentary tastings of Moët & Chandon Brut Impérial.
Families are also in for a treat, as Christmas Fairies will be distributing festive goodies to the kids throughout the evening.
Cost: Free entry
When: Thursday, 13 November from 5.30pm. Pop-up opens at 4pm on 13 November and runs until 7 December 2025
Where: Centre Court at Hyde Park Corner, Cnr Jan Smuts Avenue and William Nicol Drive, 6th Rd, Hyde Park, Johannesburg
More festive fun at Hyde Park Corner
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: Tuesday, 16 December 2025 from 8.30am to 5pm
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 for 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, illuminating the night 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: R85pp, book via Ticketpro
When: Thursday, 4 December 2025 from 7pm
Where: SunBet Arena at Time Square Casino, 209 Aramist Ave, Waterkloof Glen, Pretoria
Shop up a storm at the Irene Village Festive Market
Already a favourite with locals because of its beautiful location and the fact that it offers a refreshing escape from the bustle of city life, the Irene Village Market also hosts their own special Christmas Market series where all of your gifting dreams can come true.
Situated under a rooftop of trees at The Big Red Barn in Olifantsfontein, this market is the perfect outing for an easy morning. Hosting more than 150 stalls with a variety of locally handmade arts and crafts, it provides a memorable outdoor shopping experience for everyone to enjoy.
Live entertainment contributes to the relaxing but vibey atmosphere as you sit back and enjoy extraordinary food from the deli. Local on-tap beer and gin are also on the menu and pets are welcome.
Cost: Free entry
When: Running on 29 November and 6, 13, 14 & 16 December 2025
Where: The Big Red Barn, 7 Nelson Rd, Olifantsfontein, Pretoria
New Year’s Eve Neon Bash feat. Dr Victor and the Rasta Rebels
Spend this New Year’s Eve at SunBet Arena with an exciting lineup of musical talents.
This NYE Neon Bash invites guests to wear their best neons whilst taking in music from the legendary Dr Victor and the Rasta Rebels, along with DJ DekStir, and DJ Shawny B.
For more than 40 years Dr. Victor (Victor Khojane) has been crafting and creating an uplifting up-tempo sound that has earned this singer, musician, songwriter and producer an enviable reputation on the South African music scene and abroad.
Together with his group The Rasta Rebels, they continue to be one of the busiest live bands in South Africa and abroad.
Cost: R700pp, book via Ticketpro
When: New Year’s Eve – 31 December 2025 from 8pm
Where: SunBet Arena at Time Square Casino, 209 Aramist Ave, Waterkloof Glen, Pretoria
More New Year’s Eve events in Gauteng
