The 2024 festive season is here, and with the school break just around the corner it’s time to start looking for some exciting things to do with the kids in Johannesburg this summer holiday. But not to worry! When it comes to kid-friendly entertainment, the city of gold has plenty.
Whether it’s an outdoor adventure, theatre shows and musicals, or thrilling and active outings, there’s something lined up for all ages, from the toddlers and tweens to teens.
Kids’ events running for a limited period in Joburg
Christmas Fun at Fourways Mall
Looking for activities and events in Johannesburg to keep the entire family in the festive spirit this festive season? 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 4 to 22 December 2024 | 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
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 2024. Use code 24WJ15 at checkout
When: 12 December 2024 to 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
DreamWorks ‘Find the Fun’ at Mall of Africa
Joburgers are in for a treat as the DreamWorks Channel brings back its beloved ‘Find the Fun’ wonderland to Mall of Africa. The centre court area just outside Spur transforms into a magical playground offering kids and parents a chance to immerse themselves in laughter, play, and memorable experiences.
Expect tons of play zones and adventures, opportunities to meet and greet iconic animated characters, and fun treasure hunts and DreamWorks Channel screenings.
Cost: Free entry, including all activities and meet-and-greets.
When: Running from 11 to 24 December 2024, open daily from 9am to 6pm
Where: Mall of Africa, centre court (outside Spur), Magwa Cres, Waterval 5-Ir, Midrand
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
Rides, food and entertainment at the Maponya Mall Carnival
The Soul of Soweto is the place to be this summer holiday as Tommy’s Carnival is coming to Maponya Mall. With an exciting lineup of DJs, concerts, a cocktail bar, face painters, stilt walkers, food trucks, popcorn and candy floss, VR games, mimes, clowns and classical carnival games, you don’t want to miss out.
There’s also a chance to win free double tickets to the carnival. Keep up with the Maponya Mall social media accounts to earn your chance to win.
Cost: R25 per ride | R250pp to snag an armband for all-day access
When: 12 November 2024 to 6 January 2025 from 12pm to 6pm daily
Where: Maponya Mall, 1809 Chris Hani Rd, Klipspruit, Soweto
Tuff Nutterz: 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: 5 to 8 December 2024 | 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
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: 22 November 2024 to 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
A much-loved animation film comes to life in Aladdin Jr
The Peoples Theatre showcases the production of Aladdin Jr, based on the Disney animation film.
This enchanting story of Aladdin combines all the elements of exciting live entertainment through a fabulous set, costumes and music. The play is set to captivate young audiences and remind grown-ups that there is a child-like sparkle in all of us.
Cost: R140pp to R165pp, book via Webtickets
When: 12 November to 22 December 2024 | Tuesday to Friday, 9am and 11 am | Saturday and Sunday, 10.30am and 2.30pm
Where: Peoples Theatre at Joburg Theatre, 163 Civic Blvd, Braamfontein, Johannesburg
Eastgate Shopping Centre’s Festive Season highlights
This December holiday, 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: 1 to 24 December 2024 | 9am to 7pm, daily | 9am to 9pm, Friday
Where: 43 Bradford Rd, Bedfordview, Germiston
Read more about the event here
A timeless production with Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol
Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol returns to Montecasino having played to sold-out audiences for many years now.
This beloved classic transports audiences into the heart of Victorian London to follow the transformation of Ebenezer Scrooge as he discovers the true meaning of Christmas, kindness, and the importance of giving back.
Described as “a sumptuous banquet for the eyes, ears, and imagination; a sensory delight for any tired soul,” this adaptation of Charles Dickens’ timeless story is a heartwarming celebration of humanity, family, and the boundless generosity of the human spirit.
Cost: From R150pp to R230pp, book via Webtickets
When: 27 November to 8 December 2024 | Times vary
Where: Pieter Toerien Theatre, 1 Montecasino Blvd, Magaliessig, Johannesburg
Mzansi Ballet’s The ABBA Show – A Cinderella Story
Get ready for a magical celebration of fairytales and pop music as Mzansi Ballet returns with The ABBA Show this summer. Combining the timeless music of ABBA with the beloved story of Cinderella, this whimsical ballet promises to be an unforgettable holiday treat for all ages.
Featuring the exceptional dancers of the Mzansi Ballet, this show sparkles with fun, romance, and of course, those unforgettable ABBA melodies. There is also a gift donation initiative taking place over the course of the production, to be given to charities. Gifts are also available for purchase at the theatre prior to the performance and during the interval.
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: 26 December 2024 to 19 January 2025 | Wednesdays to Sundays with various shows at 3pm and 7.30pm
Where: Pieter Toerien at Monte Casino, 1 Montecasino Blvd, Fourways, Johannesburg
Christmas comes alive at the Festival of Lights
The annual Johannesburg Festival of Lights features an enchanting collection of illuminated life-size animal characters and classical, harmonious entertainment, 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: From 28 November 2024 to 5 January 2025 | Thursdays to Sundays from 7pm to 10pm
Where: Johannesburg Zoo, Jan Smuts Ave, Parkview, Randburg
Janice Honeyman’s Beauty and the Beast Pantomime
The Joburg Theatre is proud to announce Janice Honeyman‘s re-telling of the timeless classic, Beauty, the Beast and the Enchanted Castle. With all the usual fun, laughter and topical jokes, dazzling costumes, exciting choreography and musical arrangements that have delighted audiences for decades, this pantomime offers audiences a fresh and inspired new South African take on the classic tale.
In addition, Joburg Theatre, in conjunction with CHOC (the Childhood Cancer Foundation SA), is running a Festive Season Book Drive for the duration of Beauty and the Beast. Guests attending to watch the show can donate gently-used children’s and young adult books whilst there.
Cost: R200pp to R370pp, book via Webtickets
When: 12 November to 22 December 2024 | Various times
Where: Mandela Theatre at Joburg Theatre, 163 Civic Blvd, Braamfontein, Johannesburg
A Christmas wonderland at Emperor’s Palace
The Christmas Village at Emperor’s 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: From 22 November to 31 December 2024 | Daily from 3pm to 10pm with 90-minute slots
Where: Emperors Palace, 64 Jones Rd, Kempton Park, Johannesburg
Ongoing things to do with kids in Johannesburg
The Museum of Illusions
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 daily, 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 2024 from 1pm
Where: The Zone @ Rosebank, 177 Oxford Road, Rosebank, Johannesburg
Read more about the museum here
Holiday specials at Kidz Fun House
Kidz Fun House is open every day during the school holidays until 15 January 2025. The indoor play centre boasts a baby corner, imagination playhouses, an art corner, an arcade room, a giant obstacle course, giant slides, a trampoline and a giant corn-filled sandpit.
They have started a festive deal for the kids as well. For R195 on any summer holiday weekend, the kids can get two hours of play along with a kidz meal and a milkshake OR three hours of play.
On 21 December, you can also treat the kids to a spectacular Christmas Puppet Show hosted by Drizzles Events. The day starts with a 40-minute nativity puppet show telling the story of the birth of Christ, followed by gift distribution for all ticket holding children.
Then the kids can take photos with special guests, Santa Claus and the Grinch. The festivities later conclude with an hour of free playtime offered by Kidz Fun House.
On 26 December, there is a Boxing Day special where each kid gets two hours of play, a kidz meal and a kidz shake for only R99. This offer is exclusive to Early Bird Special ticket holders only.
Cost: R195pp for festive special and puppet show which can be booked via Quicket | R99pp for Boxing Day special, book via Quicket | Daily prices are from R55pp per hour. Pay at the venue
When: 19 October 2024 to 15 January 2025 | Monday to Saturday, 9am to 5pm | Sunday, 9am to 4pm | Puppet show on 21 December, 12pm to 2pm
Where: Kidz Fun House Play Centre, Unit 6, 1 Terrace Road, Eastleigh, Edenvale
Kids become Ninja Warriors at the Total Ninja obstacle and inflatable park
Nestled in the heart of the Northgate, the Total Ninja indoor park brings the excitement of the global sensation TV series Ninja Warrior to life.
The kids get a thrilling experience filled with massive inflatables and obstacle courses designed to push their Ninja skills. Expect a range of attractions and conveniences, including a ground-floor Café complete with a spectators’ area, a dedicated Ninja zone catering to the under-five crowd, and complimentary secure parking for up to two hours.
Cost: R80pp (u/4 for 1h) |R120pp (u/5 for 2h) | R160pp (4+ years for 1h) | R240pp (6 to 16 years for 2h) | Book online
When: Monday to Friday from 10am to 9pm | Saturday and Sunday from 9am to 9pm
Where: Shop 267, Northgate Mall, Northumberland Avenue, Northgate, Johannesburg
Acrobranch’s tree-top adventures for kids
Acrobranch is a tree-top experience dedicated to offering children and adults alike a unique adventure. Obstacles consist of awesome tree-top high ropes and tricky crossings (with ladders, tunnels, walkways and bridges).
They also offer spectacular zip lines to top it off. All aerial adventurists are strapped securely to two carabiners – offering both security from injury or harm and the advantage of being able to test one’s strengths without the fear of falling. Booking is not necessary, but highly recommended as harnesses are limited.
Cost: From R65pp, book online
When: Monday to Sunday from 9am to 6pm
Where: Modderfontein, Casalinga, and Melrose in Johannesburg
JoyJozi is an immersive playground with loads of family activities
JoyJozi is a one-of-a-kind playground, restaurant, and experiential venue designed for families to unwind together. This restaurant in Johannesburg incorporates everything from safe and interactive play spaces indoors and outdoors, and a host of unique pop-up experiences.
Outdoor leisure activities include an action court, tree house, bicycle track, mini splash park, and a dedicated space for toddlers right next to the vegetable garden. All the play equipment has been tastefully integrated into the expansive gardens
For the indoor play centre, there are multiple mazes, slides and games as well as a vintage arcade room and media room, perfect for the winter months. At the end of the garden, there is a 70-seater amphitheatre and stage for visitors to watch, join, and even perform their own shows in a beautiful, serene setting.
Cost: Free (older kids and adults) | R60 per child u/15 (Weekdays) | R100 per child u/15 (Weekend & Public Holiday) | Book via Dineplan
When: Wednesday to Sunday | From 11am to 9pm on school holidays
Where: 51 Eastwood Road, Dunkeld, Johannesburg
Climbing activities at CityROCK Johannesburg
CityROCK is a climbing gym which caters to climbers of all levels, from first-time kids to experienced outdoor climbers.
CityROCK’s children’s zone is all about fun, where kids can use this activity to develop fine muscle control, gain a sense of achievement and body awareness and for those who take it more seriously, develop the correct climbing skills.
Their climbing facilities include a large bouldering area (bouldering is climbing 3m – 4m high without a rope) and up to 15m high walls for roped climbing. For all top rope climbing they only use the Grigri belay device and for belayed climbing, all climbers and belayers must pass a compulsory top rope belay test.
Cost: R190pp (adults) | R170pp (student/pensioner) | R160pp (kids u/18) | Book online
When: Monday to Thursday from 11am to 9.30pm | Friday to Sunday and Public Holidays from 9am to 6pm
Where: CityROCK Johannesburg, 46 Fourth Ave S, Fontainebleau, Randburg
A sharpshooting activity amongst friends at Blades and Triggers OPS
Blades and Triggers OPS is a supervised Airsoft and Nerf gun battle zone located at Clearwater Mall in Roodepoort and Eastgate Mall in Bedfordview. It offers hours of pulse-racing action where visitors compete in various games across four different arenas.
There are over various different themes and games to choose from such as Airsoft, Laser Tag, Ninja Stars, Paintball Targets, Archery, Gel Blaster, Airsoft Target, Long Distance Range. The Eastgate venue also boasts a fan favourite for those seeking an extra adrenaline rush in their Glow in the Dark Arena.
Cost: R20pp to R250pp, book online
When: Clearwater – Tuesday to Thursday, 12pm to 7pm | Friday, 9am to 9pm | Saturday, 9am to 7pm | Sunday, 9am to 5pm | Eastgate – Monday to Sunday, 10am to 7pm
Where: Clearwater Mall, Hendrik Potgieter Rd, Christiaan de Wet Rd, Strubens Valley, Roodepoort. In the Parking lot of Entrance 3 | Eastgate Shopping Centre, 43 Bradford Rd, Bedfordview, Germiston. At Entrance 8, Next to Hamleys
Fun with furry friends at Bunny Hop Haven Animal Sanctuary
The Bunny Hop Haven animal sanctuary is a home for rescued and rehabilitating exotic pets and farm animals. Schools and families can spend time interacting with and feeding farm animals during their visit.
The non-profit company is a haven and home to rabbits, guinea pigs, chickens, turkeys, ducks, goats, pigs, and tortoises. Most of the animals are up for adoption and the haven follows a strict home check and adoption process.
Besides being an animal sanctuary, the Bunny Hop Haven is an educational and play centre too. Children can interact and learn about animals through playing with and feeding the animals. The sanctuary houses a children’s jungle gym for endless hours of fun.
Cost: R40pp to R50pp | R20 for an extra veg bucket | Pay at venue
When: Tuesday to Sunday, 10am to 4pm
Where: The Bunny Hop Haven @ Observatory Sports Club, 59 Frederick St, Observatory, Johannesburg
A bouncy blast at Bounce INC
With so many fitness activities in Johannesburg, it’s hard to find one that kids and teens can genuinely enjoy and want to partake in. Not simply because they feel as though they need to keep fit, but rather because they have fun whilst exercising. Bounce Inc. is exactly the sort of venue to give you simultaneous fun and exercise.
Their venues in Midrand and Fourways feature 3000 square meters of interconnected trampolines surrounded by padding and airbags, and additional adventure features placed around the playground.
Whether you come to perfect your backflip, learn new skills, get silly and have fun, or simply hang out with friends and family, it’s the ideal venue to ‘get a taste of Freestyle.’
Cost: From R50pp, book online
When: Fourways Mall – Mon to Thurs, 12pm to 6pm (9am – 6pm on School Hols.) | Fri, 12pm to 7pm (9am – 7pm on School Hols.) | Sat, 9am to 7pm | Sun, 9am to 6pm | Mall of Africa – Monday to Sunday, 8am to 9pm
Where: Lower Level at Fourways Mall, Cnr William Nicol & Fourways Bvd, Fourways, Johannesburg | Shop 2025, Mall of Africa, Lone Creek Crescent and Magwa Crescent, Waterfall City, Midrand
Putt-putt golf in tranquil surroundings at 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
PlayTown offers education and entertainment all at once
PlayTown is a family-friendly recreational facility and vibrant space that caters to various age groups, creating an inclusive environment for young adventurers. Its main focus is pretend play. There are multiple themed playrooms dedicated to various pretend activities. These include a police department, a grocery store, a gym, a news station, a doctor’s office, and more.
There’s an “outdoor area” (still indoors) geared with a tent, rock climbing and boys only/girls only treehouses as well as dress-up clothes. There is also a huge pirate-ship shaped jungle gym, equipped with slides, air cannons, obstacle courses and a ball pit.
A further energy releaser is the 250m2 trampolines, categorised for different ages to give everyone a chance for jumping fun. And for the tiny tots, there is a separate, contained jumping castle and play area, filled with soft toys, ball pits and swings.
There is also an on-site restaurant where bookings are essential.
Cost: R50 per child | Free for adults | Book online
When: Tuesday to Friday, 12pm – 6pm | Saturday, 9am to 6pm | Sunday, 9am to 3pm
Where: PlayTown, Highway Business Park 95 Park Avenue North, Rooihuiskraal, Centurion
