The countdown to Christmas has begun, and the festive spirit is sweeping the city with markets, theatre shows, and twinkling light displays to enjoy. Here's our round-up of Joburg events to make this season a memorable one, from November 2024 into the new year.
Fri, Nov 1 – Sat, Dec 21, 2024: Soaring with The Cirk
Wed, Nov 6 – Sun, Dec 22, 2024: Panto magic with beloved characters
From Wed, Nov 6 – Sun, Dec 22, Joburg Theatre presents Janice Honeyman's annual pantomime, Beauty, the Beast and the Enchanted Castle. Honeyman, renowned as the "panto queen of South Africa", brings a fresh, comedic twist to the classic tale of Belle and the Beast, blending humour, dazzling costumes, and engaging choreography. The show promises to be a magical experience for all ages, with a talented cast delivering laugh-out-loud moments and interactive fun. Book tickets here.
Fri, Nov 8, 2024 – Fri, Feb 7, 2025: Ster-Kinekor's Throwback Cinema
Ster-Kinekor celebrates the festive season with the Throwback Cinema series from Fri, Nov 8 – Fri, Feb 7, offering classic films for just R50 per ticket at its Rosebank and Sandton theatres. Every Friday, a new film is released, with multiple screenings each week. It’s the perfect opportunity to revisit your favourite movies at a classic price.
Fri, Nov 15, 2024 – Sat, Jan 9, 2025: Destination Christmas at Melrose Arch
Destination Christmas at Melrose Arch runs from Fri, Nov 15 – Sat, Jan 9 , transforming the centre into a festive wonderland with dazzling light displays and a variety of seasonal events. Highlights include the launch of the Christmas lights on Fri, Nov 15 , and a chalet pop-up experience from Wed, Nov 20 – Fri, Dec 20 . Visitors can enjoy a festive market from Tue, Nov 26 – Sat, Nov 30 with more than 40 stalls, delectable sweets, food trucks, and family activities throughout December. Other festive highlights include a roaming Santa, face painting, and live music, making it a super fun family holiday destination in the city.
Fri, Nov 22 – Tue, Dec 31 2024: Christmas Village at Emperors Palace
Step into the magic of the holidays at the Christmas Village at Emperors Palace, running from Fri, Nov 22 – Tue, Dec 31 2024 , with 90-minute slots from 15:00 – 22:00. Packed with twinkling lights, festive characters, charming shops, games, and even Santa himself, it’s a holiday experience like no other. Tickets are priced at R75 per person, R45 for children aged three to 12, R65 for pensioners. Book tickets here .Sat, Nov 23 – Sun, Dec 22, 2024: Festive Forty Four
From Sat, Nov 23 – Sun, Dec 22 , 44 Stanley becomes a holiday haven every weekend with Festive Forty Four , brimming with family-friendly fun, artisanal markets, and seasonal cheer. Discover unique vendors, sip wine at Vinosity, and enjoy workshops like coffee cupping, and floral arranging. With magical performances, art sessions, and a Chommies pop-up, there’s something for everyone.
Mon, Nov 25 – Tue, Dec 24, 2024: Festivities on the Square
This festive season, Nelson Mandela Square in Sandton is your go-to destination for shopping, dining, art, and exciting prizes. From Mon, Nov 25 – Tue, Dec 24 , Nelson Mandela Square: Festivities on the Square allows you to shop until you drop and stand a chance to win your share of R180,000 in prizes, or even the grand prize of R20,000. Get your gifts wrapped for a good cause, explore impressive art installations by Anton Smit , enjoy extended shopping hours from Fri, Dec 13 – Mon, Dec 23 , and explore more than 70 retailers and indulge in festive eats.
