Whether 2024 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.
FESTIVE & SUMMER SHOWS + EXPERIENCES
A Spectacle of Wonder at Circus Galassia
Relive the golden age of authentic circus with a captivating series of two-hour matinee and evening shows staged in a traditional tented circus setting.
The unique charm of Circus Galassia showcase is their intentional focus on human-only entertainment – no real animals feature in any of the acts. What’s more, the acrobats, jugglers, clowns and daredevils are all world-class talent from various parts of the globe that serve up breathtaking and death-defying stunts under the masterful eye of the ringmaster.
While you’re there, round out the festive feels with candy floss and freshly popped popcorn, and wash down warm hotdogs with a range of slushies while you and the family are transported through the wonders of the circus.
Cost: R170pp to R350pp, book online via Circus Galassia. What’s on in Joburg readers receive a 15% discount on tickets purchased by 12 December. Use code 24WJ15 at checkout
When: Thursday, 12 December 2024 to Sunday, 12 January 2025 | Various days, from 3pm to 5pm and 7pm to 9pm
Where: Sandown High School, Rivonia Drive, Sandown, Sandton
Read more about the event here
A Swingin’ Christmas
Johannesburg audiences are in for a special holiday treat as the Johannesburg Big Band presents A Swingin’ Christmas, a festive concert promising an unforgettable experience for the whole family.
For one weekend only this musical showcase lights up Carnival City’s Big Top Arena with spirited holiday classics, joyful harmonies, and South African flair. The showcase also brings together an extraordinary line-up of South African musical icons, including Mzansi Youth Choir, Kurt Darren, Zwai Bala, Harry Sideropoulos, and Monique Steyn.
Audiences can expect favourites like ‘Santa Baby’, ‘Baby It’s Cold Outside’, and local treasures like ‘Christmas in SA’ and ‘Somer Kersfees’, ensuring a diverse selection that reflects the holiday spirit in all its forms.
Cost: R280pp to R550pp | Early bird and group discounts apply | Tickets available via Webtickets
When: Saturday, 14 December and Sunday, 15 December | Shows start at 12 noon & 4pm (on both days)
Where: Big Top Arena, entury Rd, Elsburg Road, Carnival City, Brakpan Johannesburg
Read more about the event here
Rosebank Mall’s new Rooftop Gin Festival
Rosebank Mall is ringing out the year with the launch of a fabulous new Rooftop Gin Festival. This new event in Johannesburg ties together some of South Africa’s respected craft gin labels, live music performances by top artists like Lady Zamar and Holly Rey, and gourmet food all set to sunset views on the rooftop space.
Cost: R200pp, including one complimentary gin and tonic. Book tickets via Webtickets
When: Saturday, 14 December from 2pm to 9pm
Where: Rosebank Mall Rooftop at Parking Level 4, 15A Cradock Ave, Rosebank, Johannesburg
Read more about the event here
Phillip Dikotla’s Unforgettable One-Man Stand-Up Special
Big Comedy Live presents Phillip Dikotla in his brand-new comedy special, LIVE (HERE), set to hit Johannesburg this December. Known for his sharp wit and compelling storytelling, Dikotla’s latest show promises audiences a holiday escape with a healthy dose of laughter and a fresh look at the festive season’s ups and downs.
Combining hilarious takes on relatable holiday moments with his signature observational humour, Dikotla riffs on the awkwardness of family gatherings, the struggle of navigating holiday expenses, and the quirks of surviving a South African December.
Cost: R250pp | Tickets available exclusively via phillipdikotla.live
When: Friday, 6 December from 7pm
Where: Nu Metro Cinema, Cnr Jan Smuts Ave and, 6th Rd, Hyde Park, Johannesburg
Read more about the show here
An immersive acrobatic theatrical experience with The Cirk’s Gatsby production
Step into the dazzling world of the Roaring Twenties with Gatsby: A Cirque Extravaganza.
This immersive theatrical experience brings glamour, excess, and tragic romance to life with a breathtaking fusion of cirque artistry and vintage opulence. The venue is beautifully decorated to transport you to the world of flappers, jazz and forbidden love.
Acrobats soar above in a mesmerizing display of aerial silks, while contortionists and dancers weave through the crowd, embodying the spirit of Gatsby’s legendary parties. Each act unfolds to immerse the audience in the grandeur of the Jazz Age.
Cost: R180pp to R300pp, book via Koid
When: Running until Sunday, 15 December | Fridays and Saturdays at 7pm | Sundays at 2pm
Where: The Cirk, Shop L205a Cresta Shopping Centre, Corner Beyers Naude and Weltervreden Road, Randburg
Christmas with Richard Cock is a merry music occasion
The Symphony Choir of Johannesburg and conductor Richard Cock host their annual Christmas with Richard Cock concert this December in Johannesburg.
Join them along with The Phoenix Orchestra at the Linder Auditorium in Parktown for a joyful symphony of sound.The programme features Christmas Carol favourites from ‘Silent Night’ to ‘Jingle Bells’ and more.
Cost: R300pp (adults) | R230pp (pensioners, students and scholars) | Book via Quicket
When: Saturday and Sunday, 7 and 8 December | Saturday from 5pm | Sunday from 3pm
Where: Linder Auditorium, 27 St Andrews Rd, Parktown, Johannesburg
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.
The full value of the ticket will be donated to Santa’s Shoebox to bring festive joy to our most vulnerable children around South Africa.
Cost: R75pp | Free (kids u/3) | Book via iTickets
When: Thursday, 5 December from 4.30pm to 9pm
Where: SunBet Arena at Time Square Casino, 209 Aramist Ave, Waterkloof Glen, Pretoria
The passionate world of Carmen comes to life through dance
Mzansi Ballet—The Nation’s Ballet—presents a thrilling new production venturing into the passionate world of Carmen.
Choreographed by the acclaimed José Manuel Buzón Ruiz from Madrid’s University of Juan Carlos, in collaboration with Mzansi Ballet’s own Angela Revie, Carmen showcases a powerful story of love, jealousy, and betrayal set to the iconic music of Georges Bizet.
This bold reimagining of the classic tale brings together the fiery rhythms of flamenco, the elegance of ballet, and the high-energy moves of Pantsula, creating an explosive fusion of dance styles like never before. Adding an authentic Spanish flair, Mzansi Ballet has partnered with the Spanish dance community in Johannesburg and Pretoria to create a truly dynamic production.
To add to the experience, Mzansi Ballet is teaming up with The Hussar Grill at Montecasino to offer an incredible deal for attendees to enjoy a 20% discount on both their tickets and dinner—but only when they use both discounts together.
Cost: R200pp to R350pp, book via Webtickets
When: Wednesday, 11 December to Sunday, 22 December | Various shows at 3pm and 7.30pm
Where: Pieter Toerien at Monte Casino, 1 Montecasino Blvd, Fourways, Johannesburg
Check out more festive activities in Johannesburg
KIDS & FAMILY ACTIVITIES
Eastgate Shopping Centre’s festive season highlights
This December, Eastgate Shopping Centre transforms into a festive wonderland with ‘Be Present for the Fun’, an exciting holiday theme designed to bring joy to every visitor. Eastgate invites families to experience a season packed with thrilling entertainment, special appearances, and opportunities to give back—perfect for creating unforgettable memories together.
Highlights include opportunities for the kiddos to meet-and-greet beloved pop culture characters, iconic Disney-themed Christmas trees, daily festive parades for all ages, letters to Santa + cute photo-ops, extended shopping hours and lots of fun activities, and festive photo spots and décor.
Cost: Free entry
When: Sunday, 1 December to Tuesday, 24 December | 9am to 7pm, daily | 9am to 9pm, Friday
Where: 43 Bradford Rd, Bedfordview, Germiston
Read more about the event here
Fun things to do this Christmas at Fourways Mall
Looking for activities and events in Johannesburg to keep the entire family in the festive spirit this December? Look no further than the Santa Land Adventure at Fourways Mall, an opportunity to dive into interactive experiences at five fantastical zones.
The fun does not stop at the Santa Land Adventure. There are so many more festive activities taking place at Fourways Mall, from making memories with Father Christmas, to festive markets, live music, tasty bites, and opportunities to give back.
Cost: R40pp per two-hour session from 4 to 12 December | R50pp per two-hour session from 13 to 22 December | Book via Quicket
When: Running from Wednesday, 4 December to Sunday, 22 December | 10am to 7pm from 4 to 12 December | 10am to 8pm from 13 to 22 December | Note that final slots are for the day are 1.5 hours long.
Where: Fourways Mall, 11 Ruby Cl, Witkoppen, Fourways, Sandton
Read more about the experience here
Tuff Nutterz is South Africa’s largest inflatable obstacle course
Joburg families and fun seekers are in for an action-packed adventure this summer as Tuff Nutterz brings South Africa’s largest outdoor inflatable obstacle course to Zoo Lake Sports Club. Designed to create lasting memories, Joburg Jumps promises an unforgettable day of fun, fitness, and family-friendly excitement for all ages.
Cost: R150 per toddler (under 5) | R200pp (Adult) | Book via Quicket
When: Thursday, 5 December to Sunday, 8 December| From 9am to 5pm on Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday | 9am to 8.30pm on Friday | 9am to 10am daily (Toddler Hour)
Where: Zoo Lake Sports Club, CNRS Westwold Way / Lower Park Drive, Prince of Wales Dr, Parkwood, Randburg, Johannesburg
Read more about the event here
A heartfelt holiday stage story for all ages with Momo’s Magical Adventure
This holiday season, Sandton City is upping the feel-good, magic-filled factor for the whole family, with an all-new ‘Momo’s Magical Adventure’ theatrical production, in collaboration with Standard Bank Private.
With a bold new storyline, Momo’s imagination once again takes centre stage, where everything shimmers a little brighter and anything is possible. The story takes audiences on a journey, lunging them into the depths of the luminous sea before flying them to space for a totally surreal cosmic odyssey.
Cost: R60pp, book online via Sandton City
When: 5 December 2024 to 5 January 2025 | Tuesdays to Sundays from 11am to 5.30pm (showings are 30 minutes each). There are no showings on Christmas or New Year’s Day.
Where: Sandton City, 83 Rivonia Rd, Sandhurst, Sandton
Read more about the event here
Disney’s The Magic Box brings music from Disney’s beloved songbook
Disney’s The Magic Box makes its English-language production world premiere in the motherland. The show, featuring an all-South African cast and crew, opens in Johannesburg in November before embarking on an international tour.
The musical, which originally premiered with great success in January 2024 in Buenos Aires, Argentina, immerses the audience in an unprecedented theatrical adventure that combines puppetry, elaborate costumes, and projections in an innovative and large-scale staging.
The show is a sensory experience that pays tribute to the art of animation and invites the audience to reconnect with the legacy of Disney music through the stories, songs, and characters that have accompanied them through the different stages of their lives.
Cost: R200pp to R550pp, book via FeverUp
When: Friday, 22 November 2024 to Sunday, 5 January 2025 | Wed, Thurs and Fri at 7.30pm | Sat at 1.30pm, 4.30pm and 7.30pm | Sun at 2pm and 5pm
Where: The Teatro, Montecasino, Teatro Road, 1 Montecasino Blvd, Fourways, 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) | R75 pp (kids aged 3 to 12) | R100pp (pensioners) | Free entry for kids u/3 | Book via Webtickets
When: From Thursday, 28 November 2024 to Sunday, 5 January 2025 | Thursdays to Sundays from 7pm to 10pm
Where: Johannesburg Zoo, Jan Smuts Ave, Parkview, Randburg
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MUSICAL EXPERIENCES
Corona Sunsets Summer Tour
The #CoronaSunsets Summer Tour is here to add more party magic to Johannesburg this December.
Beyond the multi-day Corona Sunsets Festival in Cape Town, the Corona Sunsets Summer Tour offers single day celebrations with a series of unforgettable experiences in unique locations. This time, it’s all going down at the beautiful NIROX Sculpture Park.
Expect performances from local music sensations Shekhinah, Manana, Langa Mavuso, DJ Bob, and Bilal Da DJ along with breathtaking sunsets, and for the first time— on-site accommodation.
Cost: From R750pp | R5 000 (FARMHOUSE58 accommodation for 2) | Book via Howler
When: Saturday, 7 December from 12pm to 8pm
Where: NIROX Sculpture Park, R540 Kromdraai Rd, Kromdraai, Krugersdorp
Msaki Presents: Camagu In Symphony
‘Msaki Presents Camagu In Symphony: 10 Years of Gratitude’ is a musical celebration where the star shows gratitude for 10 years in the South African music industry.
A one-night-only spectacle where supporters, family, friends and creative collaborators of Msaki through her impactful contribution to the South African music canon, get to reflect in gratitude. Some supporting acts include Sun-El Musician, Kabza de Small, Anatii, Tresor, Black Motion, Simmy, Muneyi, Modi Dixon, Jesse Clegg, and Linda Sikhakhane.
Cost: R538pp to R1 075pp, book via Ticketmaster
When: Thursday, 12 December from 8pm | Doors open at 6pm
Where: SunBet Arena at Time Square Casino, 209 Aramist Ave, Waterkloof Glen, Pretoria
Deep In The City – Open Air Festival
Deep In The City – Open Air Festival curated by Black Coffee and Themba is South Africa’s biggest deep house music festival.
The event brings South Africa’s biggest artists and food from the best street food vendors to the Outdoor Events Area at Montecasino. With a massive line-up that includes some of the biggest DJs, this event is going to be huge.
The lineup features local DJ talents Atmos Blaq, Caiiro, Da Capo, Desiree, Enoo Napa, Fka Mash, Francis Mercier, DJ Kent, Oscar Mbo, Themba (aka Euphonik), Thakzin, and Vanco.
Cost: R300pp to R450pp (general admission) | R850pp to R1 150pp (VIP) | R2 000 (table package) | Book online
When: Sunday, 15 December from 12pm to 10pm
Where: Montecasino, Montecasino Blvd, Fourways, Johannesburg
FESTIVE MARKETS
The Field Market Christmas Edition
The popular Field Market is showcasing more of its local artisans, crafters, and food vendors for a special Christmas edition this December!
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.
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: Saturday, 14 December from 9am to 3pm
Where: Field & Study Park, 11 Louise Avenue, Parkmore, Sandton, Johannesburg
44 Stanley’s Festive Fourty Four weekend markets
The Festive Fourty Four weekend markets are the perfect place where you can enjoy the beautiful outdoors and find an alternative place to shop over the festive season. Find anything from kids’ items to crafts, jewellery, design and other wonderful items that complement the stores in the area and make the space a one-stop destination for all your festive shopping needs.
Cost: Free entry
When: Every weekend from 23 November to 22 December
Where: 44 Stanley Avenue, Braamfontein Werf, Johannesburg
A Christmas wonderland 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 offering a diverse range of food, gifts and goodies await you.
Cost: R40pp to R75pp, book via TicketPro
When: Running until Tuesday, 31 December | Daily from 3pm to 10pm with 90-minute slots
Where: Emperors Palace, 64 Jones Rd, Kempton Park, 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 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: 30 November and 7, 14, 15 and 16 December 2024
Where: The Big Red Barn, 7 Nelson Rd, Olifantsfontein, Pretoria
Check out more Festive Markets here
CHRISTMAS DINING
The Maslow Hotel Christmas dinner
Make your Christmas merrier by stopping at The Maslow for an unforgettable celebration where luxury and culinary delight come together. This year, let Executive Chef Ofentse take the stress out of your holiday with a spectacular feast designed to satisfy every tastebud.
Start with a refreshing welcome drink, followed by a wholesome buffet filled with delicious dishes that everyone will love. The little ones will be entertained with a face painter and balloon maker, while you sit back and enjoy a live performance to set the perfect holiday mood.
Cost: R720pp | R350pp (kids aged 3-to-12 years) | Free (kids u/3) | Book via Quicket
When: Wednesday, 25 December from 6.30pm to 9.30pm
Where: The Maslow Hotel – Lacuna Bistro, 146 Rivonia Rd, Sandown, Sandton
Christmas Eve Dinner at Fairlawns
If you miss out on booking the Fairlawns Christmas Lunch, don’t fret as they also host a delightful Christmas eve dinner for those who don’t manage to book a spot for the lunch.
For appetizers, guests have a choice of cranberry brie choux puffs or delicate choux pastry filled with creamy brie, topped with a festive cranberry glaze and toasted pistachio crumb. Starters include smoked wagyu beef Tartar and celeriac soup, both accompanied by some delicious sides.
The Intermediate meal is a house-made pumpkin ravioli and Main dish options include cranberry fillet of beef, sustainable line fish, and mushroom Orzo. Finally, for dessert you have a choice between Bergamot Citrus Parfait or dark chocolate and raspberry ganache.
Cost: R980pp, book via Quicket
When: Tuesday, 24 December from 6pm to 10pm
Where: Fairlawns Boutique Hotel & Spa, 1 Alma Rd, Morningside, Johannesburg
An Exclusive Christmas Lunch Show at 54 on Bath
54 on Bath Hotel is providing the ultimate Christmas-Lunch-with-a-show experience. Join Le Petit Chef for a culinary journey like no other at 54 On Bath in Rosebank, and discover the secrets of becoming the world’s greatest chef in this immersive six-course dining show.
The experience includes a complimentary glass of Boschendal Methode Cap Classique NV and an immersive experience with 3D tabletop projections that transform your dining setting with ever-changing decorations, props, and more.
There is also an optional wine pairing with the lunch.
Cost: R1 595pp | R395 to R425 (add-on wine pairing) | Book via Computicket
When: Wednesday, 25 December from 1pm to 4.30pm (but also every Thurs to Sun from 7 Nov to 31 Dec (+ occasional other days) lunch and dinners)
Where: 54 on Bath Hotel, 54 Bath Ave, Rosebank, Johannesburg
Check out more Christmas dining experiences
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: R190pp (adults) | R150pp (kids and pensioners) | R580 (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 from 1pm
Where: The Zone @ Rosebank, 177 Oxford Road, Rosebank, Johannesburg
Read more about the museum here
Revolution NYE
Revolution NYE is planning a massive party for the latest edition of their Revolution NYE Festival this year. Join a community of chilled folks for an exclusive, intimate gathering to celebrate the evolution of 2024 and begin the next Revolution around the sun. Welcome 2025 while dancing alongside your crew.
Cost: R750pp to R1 100pp (weekend pass) | R650pp (24-hour pass from 5pm on 31 December) | R400pp (day pass from 7am on 1 January) | Book via Webtickets
When: Monday, 30 December 2024 to Wednesday, 1 January 2025 | From 10am on 30 December
Where: Hornbill Lodge, Magaliesburg
See more exciting NYE events in Johannesburg
HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES
The Ferris Wheel at Waterfall City
The Ferris Wheel is a beacon of fun and a great activity option when the weather is good. Enjoy stunning city sights of the Waterfall area from the top of the wheel. Standing at an incredible height, this observation wheel is now permanently positioned in the space with 26 gondolas that seat up to 6 people. Multiple rides on offer will keep the little ones busy such as the Crazy Wave, Bus, Tilt a Whirl, Carousel, Mini Ferris Wheel, Teacups, Candy Train, and many more.
Cost: 1 ticket costs R20pp. Small Rides at the park require 1 ticket, big rides require 2 tickets, Dodgens 3 tickets per car, and the Giant Ferris Wheel costs 3 tickets. Full Day Passes are available at R250pp. Tickets can only be bought at the gate
When: Thursdays and Fridays, from 2pm to 8pm | Saturdays, Sundays, and Public Holidays
Where: Waterfall Park, Cnr Karkloof Cres & Lisbon Ln Entrance 26, Mall of Africa, Waterfall City, Midrand
RollEgoli Roller Rink
RollEgoli Roller Rink Bryanston is a roller rink in Johannesburg that offers unlimited skating throughout the day. The owner’s love for roller skating inspired the opening RollEgoli in 2015.
Beginner skaters can regularly make use of skatemates (marshals) to help them around the rink and provide support and confidence until they can skate unsupported. Rollerbladers can rent skates. The sizes range from junior size 10 up to adult size 13 including adjustable rollerblades that range from a junior size 9 to an adult 9.
In addition to the roller rink, the garden equipped with a wooden jungle gym, a trampoline, and a smoother scooter track provide an enjoyable experience for all ages. The roller-skating entry fee includes all the activities in the rink and outside in the garden.
Cost: R110pp (entry fee) | R50 (skate rental) | Free entry for spectators | No booking is required, pay at entrance
When: Monday to Thursday and Sunday, 9am to 6pm | Friday and Saturday, 9am to 9pm | They are open all-year round but closed on 25 and 26 December
Where: RollEgoli, 296 Main Rd, Bryanston, Sandton
Adventure Golf
Experience putt-putt with Adventure Golf. The venue offers tranquil surroundings with caves, water features, magnificent greens as well as professionally laid out putting courses.
This activity keeps both parents and children entertained, whilst also offering a unique sense of peacefulness and scenic views amid the fun. The venue can also be booked for entertaining clients, team building activities or arranging kids’ birthday parties.
When guests are not playing golf, they can relax and enjoy a meal on the Deck restaurant.
Cost: R140pp (adults) | R110pp (Scholars) | R80pp (Under 7s & Pensioners) | Pay at one of the four venues
When: Monday to Thursday, 10am to 9pm | Friday and Saturday, 9am to 10pm | Sunday, 9am to 6pm | Public & School Hols., 9am to 9pm
Where: Various locations are in Randburg, Fourways, Hillfox and Stoneridge
