Gingerbread Village at Mall of Africa is a Sweet Festive Treat for the Family

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.

From 4 to 24 December 2026, the mall’s Crystal Court transforms into an immersive family experience combining creative biscuit decorating with interactive games, digital storytelling, photo opportunities and appearances by the Gingerbread Man.

Gingerbread Village at Mall of Africa | What's on in Joburg

Festive season comes alive 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 (TBC)
Where: Crystal Court (between Lacoste and Boss) at Mall of Africa, Magwa Cres, Waterval 5-Ir, Midrand

More to explore at Mall of Africa this festive

Once you’ve had your fill of sweet fun at the Gingerbread Village, explore Mall of Africa’s extensive shopping, dining and entertainment offerings during the summer holidays.

The mall will operate extended trading hours that will apply to the Gingerbread Village too, meaning more time to enjoy the activation and everything the mall has to offer.

Adding to the festive shopping experience, Babylonstoren host a pop-up store next to SKINS in the Crystal Court from 23 October until 24 December, offering shoppers a unique chance to shop its exquisite farm-inspired collection of gifts and speciality products.

Get your gifts wrapped to support a good cause

To keep festive surprises safely under wraps until the big day, Mall of Africa will also have themed gift-wrapping stations located opposite Michael Kors on the Upper Level, and on the lower level opposite Truworths.

The stations add a playful touch to festive gifting while supporting a worthy cause. All proceeds from the gift-wrapping service will be donated to the Reach For A Dream Foundation, helping to bring joy to children living with life-threatening illnesses.