Whether 2025 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
Circus Galassia presents Zaylon
Circus Galassia is bringing Joburgers an all-new magical journey under their iconic big top. This year they are debuting a new production titled Zaylon, bringing storytelling, stunts and festive vibes to audiences.
For its third festive season, Circus Galassia is introducing audiences to Zi, a curious visitor from the distant planet Zaylon. Zi arrives on Earth to explore the world of circus and discover the courage, creativity and imagination behind real human performance. Follow along Zi’s journey and experience a colourful celebration of movement, story and festive excitement.
Zaylon features top circus talents from South Africa and across the world, with signature show highlights including the ever-popular motorbike show in the Globe of Steel, and the internationally acclaimed Flying Valdarrama trapeze troupe from South America. The show also brings a full cast of acrobats, clowns and highflyers who create an atmosphere filled with energy, laughter and awe.
Cost: R180pp to R390pp, book online via Circus Galassia. What’s on in Joburg readers receive a 15% discount on tickets purchased during the entire circus run. Use code 15WOJ25 at checkout
When: 19 December 2025 to 12 January 2026 | Various days, from 3pm to 5pm & 7pm to 9pm
Where: Sandown High School, Rivonia Drive, Sandown, Sandton
More about this circus spectacular
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).
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
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
Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat
Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat is a fast-paced musical by Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice, interpreted from the story of Joseph in the Book of Genesis.
The Pieter Toerien Theatre is bringing another season’s run of the show to Joburg, following the immense success of their 2025 run. The musical stars Dylan Janse Van Rensburg (Spring Awakening) as Joseph, Lelo Ramasimong as the Narrator, and Christopher Jaftha as Pharaoh, with a new young cast ready to wow audiences.
Expect to hear much-loved pop and musical theatre classics including “Any Dream Will Do”, “Close Every Door”, “There’s One More Angel In Heaven” and “Go, Go, Go Joseph”. Bursting with vibrant energy and unforgettable music and song, this production is set to captivate audiences of all ages.
Cost: R200pp to R475pp, book via Webtickets
When: 5 December to 1 February 2026. Thursdays to Sundays at various times
Where: Pieter Toerien Montecasino Main Theatre, at Monte Casino, 1 Montecasino Blvd, Fourways, Johannesburg
Afropocalypse
Afropocalypse is a new South African production directed by Daniel Buckland.
The play, set in a post-apocalyptic South African wasteland, follows a community of traveling players who navigate this desolate landscape through the power of storytelling. As they dodge drone strikes and evade swarms of military helicopters, these intrepid storytellers encounter an unexpected audience.
Through four fables, the play addresses themes fundamental to the human experience: Greed, Mortality, Religion, and Unconditional Love.
Cost: R110pp to R220pp, book via Webtickets
When: Running from 19 November to 7 December 2025 | Wednesday to Saturday at 7pm. Saturday and Sunday at 3pm
Where: Mannie Manim Theatre at The Market Theatre, 138 Lilian Ngoyi St, Newtown, Johannesburg
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, 28 December. Various times
Where: Teatro at Monte Casino, Teatro Road, 1 Montecasino Blvd, Fourways, Johannesburg
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
KIDS & FAMILY ACTIVITIES
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
Check out these top things to do with kids in Johannesburg
DECEMBER EXPERIENCES
rAge Expo
The much-anticipated annual rAge Expo is bringing the gaming community together once again for the ultimate gathering.
For the 2025 edition, you can look forward to a packed three days of esports tournaments, epic cosplay, hands-on game demos, exclusive merch, local gamers showcasing their latest games, and of course South Africa’s largest BYOC (Bring Your Own Computer/Console) LAN (Local Area Network).
That’s not all either; attendees can expect a few brand-new zones this year, along with exciting surprise content.
Cost: From R220pp for a 1-day pass | From R460pp for a weekend pass (3-day access) | R620 for a Family Day Pass (2 Adults + 2 Children aged 7 to 16) | Free entry for kids u/6 | Enquire directly about group bookings | Book via Howler
When: Thursday to Sunday, 4 to 7 December. From 9am to 6pm daily
Where: Fourways Mall – Rooftop (Level 8), 11 Ruby Cl, Witkoppen, Sandton
The details on the 2025 rAge Expo
Voices of Home
Mzansi National Philharmonic Orchestra takes the stage with musical guests in Voices of Home, its most expansive tour yet.
Led by global conducting icon Marin Alsop, and joined by South African captivating cellist Abel Selaocoe, the unmissable tour combines African soul with a re-imagined classical tradition.
On the repertoire for the evening is Dmitri Shostakovich’s ‘Festive Overture’, Laura Karpman’s ‘All American’, Abel Selaocoe’s own ‘Four Spirits Cello Concerto’ arranged by Benjamin Woodgates. The concert ends on an emotional high with Sergei Rachmaninov’s ‘Symphony No. 2’.
Cost: From R200pp, book via Quicket
When: Wednesday and Thursday, 10 and 11 December from 7.30pm to 9.30pm on both nights
Where: Linder Auditorium, Wits Education Campus, 27 St Andrews Rd, Parktown, Johannesburg
NGEZANDLA ZETHU: Stories of African Basketry in Rural KwaZulu
This exhibition was born out of the unrecognised, but vital, role of the basket maker in the collective heritage of rural communities.
This is an immersive, interdisciplinary exhibition that brings into focus the often-hidden histories of disability and rehabilitation in rural South Africa through the medium of traditional African basketry. These practices are represented here through a collection of baskets produced in three self-help, income-generating projects in remote areas of Natal, Zululand and Maputaland between 1978 and 1990.
This collection of North Nguni baskets deepens our understanding of cultural heritage as a living connection between identity, history and sustainability. Basketry enabled survival in the past, predating pottery in weaving traditions that span about 20 000 years.
Collection and research by Pam McLaren. Curated by Naeema Hussein El Kout and Goeun Botha.
Cost: R60per adult, R30 per student. Book via Webtickets
When: Exhibition running from 13 November 2025 until 15 February 2026
Where: Origins Centre, Wits University Braamfontein Campus East, Yale Road & 1 Enoch Sontonga Ave, Braamfontein, Johannesburg
Exhibitions showing at Wits Origins Centre
Hominal / Xaba dance production
The internationally acclaimed Hominal / Xaba is a bold, arresting, and genre-defying choreographic work by Swiss choreographer Marie-Caroline Hominal and South African performing artist Nelisiwe Xaba.
This internationally heralded production brings two powerful artistic voices into dialogue in a meeting that is as playful as it is profound.On stage, audiences encounter a vivid landscape of threads, textiles, and labyrinthine colour that unravels and re-weaves as the work unfolds.
Cost: R75pp to R150pp, book via Webtickets
When: Wednesday and Thursday, 10 and 11 December. From 7pm nightly
Where: Wits Theatre Complex in the University of the Witwatersrand, 24 Station St, Braamfontein, Johannesburg
More about this groundbreaking production
Comedy Circle
Comedy Circle brings together an explosive lineup of South Africa’s most beloved comedians for one massive night of stand-up.
Come and witness a stellar cast of comedy giants, known for selling out venues across the country, as they deliver their best material. This is a chance to see six comedic powerhouses on one stage.
The Laughter Lineup includes: Robby Collins, Lindy Johnson, Wazi Kunene, Ndumiso Lindi, Khabane Moloi, and Bongani Dube.
Cost: From R250pp; from R350pp (VIP). Book via Quicket
When: Saturday, 13 December from 6pm to midnight
Where: Propstars, Louis Botha Ave & Wynberg Rd, Wynberg, Sandton
Babyface Live: All White Soul Sessions
Babyface is bringing the star power that has kept him in the business for decades now, to Pretoria for two consecutive evenings.
Babyface has contributed to over 800 million records sold, and over a billion records streamed. He has produced and wrote 125 Top 10 Hits, 42 number 1 RnB hits and 16 number 1 pop hits, and has won a total of 13 Grammys, being nominated 83 times.
He also has an Oscar under his belt for producing and co-writing the Oscar winning song ‘When you Believe’, sung by Whitney Houston and Mariah Carey, making him an undisputed musical legend.
Babyface has impacted, written for and/or produced artists like Bobby Brown, Boyz II Men, Eric Clapton, Madonna, Beyonce, Ariana Grande, Mary J Blige, Celine Dion, Aretha Franklin, George Michael, Michael Jackson, Justin Bieber, Phil Collins, Janet Jackson, Chaka Khan, Anita Baker, Faith Evans, Jay Z, Stevie Wonder, John Mayer, Lionel Richie, Michael Bolton, Kenny G, Lil Wayne, Luther Vandross, Barbara Streisand, Bruno Mars and countless others.
Don’t miss out on an opportunity to see the master at work, live at SunBet.
Cost: R950 to R2850pp, book via Webtickets
When: Friday and Saturday, 12 and 13 December from 5pm daily
Where: SunBet Arena at Time Square Casino, 209 Aramist Ave, Waterkloof Glen, Pretoria
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 Cassper Nyovest, DJ Zinhle, MÖRDA, Ch’cco, Daliwonga, Mfanatouchline, 2wo Bunnies, Lelowhatsgood, and more.
Cost: R200pp to R350pp, book via Webtickets
When: Tuesday, 16 December from 12pm
Where: Constitution Hill Human Rights Precinct, Kotze Street, Braamfontein, Johannesburg
GAIA: Dialogues between the book arts, natural sciences & plant humanities
The term Gaia has multiple meanings, primarily rooted in ancient Greek mythology and modern scientific theory. In Greek mythology, Gaia is the personification of the Earth, a primordial goddess and mother of all creation. In a scientific context, the Gaia hypothesis, proposed by James Lovelock in 1972, suggests that the Earth is a self-regulating system where living and non-living components interact to maintain conditions suitable for life.
GAIA: Dialogues between the book arts, natural sciences & plant humanities realises the long-held wish of late Senior Special Collections Librarian at the JGCBA, Rosalind Cleaver to curate an exhibition of artists’ books from the collection that reflect both an artist’s reading of the world and our place within it, as well as a call to stewardship and to tread lightly on the earth.
To Rosalind’s initial selection of books, the curators have added others from the collection, material displays from the Wits collections held at C.E. Moss Herbarium, and Life Sciences Museum, and selected artworks completed by Rosalind while exploring South Africa’s grand biodiversity.
Featuring spectacular artists’ books and life sciences specimens, Gaia reflects the blessings of our planet and calls on us to rethink how we live, take responsibility for our impact, and engage more ethically with the more-than-human world.
Cost: Free entry
When: The exhibition is open for viewing from Wednesday, 17 September to 13 December 2025 during museum hours, which are: Tuesday to Saturday, 10am to 4pm
Where: Jack Ginsberg Centre for Book Arts at Wits Art Museum, University of the Witwatersrand, Cnr Jorissen and Bertha St, Johannesburg
Exhibitions showing at Wits Art Museum
FESTIVE MARKETS
Vintage, Décor & Gifting Show – Christmas Edition
The Pretoria Vintage, Decor & Gift Show is taking 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 is also available.
Cost: Free entry
When: Saturday and Sunday, 6 and 7 December from 9am to 5pm daily
Where: Design Quarter Shopping Centre, William Nicol Dr &, Leslie Ave, Magaliessig, Sandton
More about this Christmas takeover
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: Wednesday, 10 December from 6pm to 7pm
Where: Bryanston Market, 40 Culross Rd, Bryanston, Sandton
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: Free entry, with parking at R10 per car
When: Market 2 – 13 December 2025 from 9am to 3pm
Where: Field & Study Park, 11 Louise Avenue, Parkmore, Sandton, Johannesburg
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 6, 13, 14 & 16 December 2025
Where: The Big Red Barn, 7 Nelson Rd, Olifantsfontein, Pretoria
Check out more Festive Markets here
CHRISTMAS DINING
Christmas Lunch + Dinner 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 R795 per adult; from R365 per kid aged 3 to 10. Stay the night for R 2278pp (x1 adult lunch OR dinner + hotel room incl. breakfast) or R1704pp (x2 adult lunch OR dinner + hotel room incl. breakfast) | Book lunch here and dinner here
When: Thursday, 25 December 2025. Lunch from 1pm to 4pm | Dinner from 6pm to 9pm
Where: The Maslow Hotel – Lacuna Bistro, 146 Rivonia Rd, Sandown, Sandton
More Food and Drink experience at The Maslow
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: R2250 per adult; R1100 per kid aged 13 to 17; free entry for kids u/12. Book via Quicket
When: Thursday, 25 December 2025 from 12pm to 5pm
Where: Dikeme Farms, 2MMQ+FX Krugersdorp
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
Where: The Blades Hotel, 3 Blueberry St, Honeydew, Roodepoort
The top Christmas lunches in Joburg and surrounds
NEW YEAR’S EVE EVENTS
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
New Year’s Eve rooftop celebration
The Blueberry Hill Hotel rooftop is coming alive for a special New Year’s Eve celebration, ushering you into 2026 in true Blueberry Hill fashion.
There will be a DJ setting the vibes for the night, and each guest receives a celebratory glass of bubbly when the clock strikes midnight.
Cost: R100pp at the entrance
When: Wednesday, 31 December 2025
Where: Blueberry Hill Hotel, 3 Blueberry St, Honeydew, Roodepoort
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
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
See more exciting NYE events in Johannesburg
