Johannesburg

Christmas markets, lights, fairs and festive fun in Joburg

20 Nov 2024

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. 

Wed, Nov 6 – Sun, Dec 22, 2024: Panto magic with beloved characters

The talented cast of Beauty, the Beast and the Enchanted Castle. Photo: Supplied.

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

Use the jolly season to catch up on some of your old favourites at Ster-Kinekor. Photo: Supplied.

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.

Thu, Nov 14 – Sun, Nov 17, 2024: Festive shopping with Ardmore

Ardmore's brand-new Thanda Tabling Collection. Photo: Ardmore.

Gift shopping sorted. Don't miss this festive shopping experience at Fairlawns Boutique Hotel & Spa in Morningside, Sandton, with luxury homeware, fashion, and ceramics by Ardmore from Thu, Nov 14 – Sun, Nov 17. The sale includes Ardmore's brand-new Thanda Tabling Collection, a limited-edition Armoured Warriors silk scarf, as well as a selection of the studio's latest ceramic creations. Consider it a magical, pre-holiday treat and an excellent opportunity to stock up on some enviable gifts before the Christmas rush. Your friends and family will thank you. Book tickets here

Fri, Nov 15, 2024 – Sat, Jan 9, 2025: Destination Christmas at Melrose Arch

Melrose Arch lights up with holiday cheer and fun. Photo: Supplied.

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, Christmas carols on Sat, Nov 23, 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.

Sat, Nov 16 – Sun, Nov 17, 2024: An early Christmas market

The Firs' curated market ushers in the holiday season. Photo: Supplied.

Find handmade gifts, festive collectables, and crafts that are sure to bring cheer to anyone on your list from Sat, Nov 16 – Sun, Nov 17 at The Firs in Rosebank. Head to The Firs for a charming early Christmas market filled with holiday joy, and a chance to shop for unique items that make for perfect gifting. While you browse, enjoy live music and nibble on seasonal treats and drinks – because what's Christmas without a little indulgence? 

Fri, Nov 22 – Sun, Nov 24, 2024: 'Worlds Away' by The Cirk

Prepare to be transported to a mystical realm in The Cirk's 'Worlds Away'. Photo: Supplied. 

Back by popular demand, Worlds Away  Journey to Circusland by The Cirk returns for one magical weekend, from Fri, Nov 22 – Sun, Nov 24, at the Mardi Gras Theatre, Carnival City. Follow a young star on a thrilling quest through mystical realms to discover light, love, and purpose, brought to life with breathtaking aerial acts, electrifying dance numbers, and incredible performances that soar above the audience. Perfect for the whole family, this captivating show explores courage, belonging, and wonder. Book tickets here.

Sat, Nov 23 – Sun, Dec 22, 2024: Festive Forty Four

Workshops at JFF Plant Shop at 44 Stanley. Photo: JFF Plant Shop via Instagram.

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, floral arranging, and Wicked screenings. With magical performances, art sessions, and a Chommies pop-up, there’s something for everyone. 

Fri, Nov 29 – Sat, Nov 30, 2024: Capitec handmadeAFRICA Festive Market


On Fri, Nov 29  – Sat, Nov 30, Capitec handmadeAFRICA returns with over 50 of the continent’s top designers showcasing unique handmade creations, from fashion to home décor at Oxford Parks.  Alongside, enjoy South Africa’s finest street food from local favourites, live DJs, choirs, comedy, and hands-on workshops. Plus, kids can join in the fun with their own creative activities.

Sat, Nov 30 – Sun, Dec 1, 2024: The Linden Market’s Festive Edition

Fun in the sun at The Linden Market. Photo: Supplied
Get into the holiday spirit at The Linden Market’s Festive Edition at Johannesburg Botanical Gardens. With 150 stalls, live music, and tasty food, it’s a great spot for unique gifts, craft drinks, and artisanal goodies. Bring the family (and pets) along from Sat, Nov 30 – Sun, Dec 1.

Sat, Nov 30 – Sun, Dec 1, 2024: Christmas Collectibles at the Antiques Fairs

Get into the festive spirit with a touch of vintage charm. The Brooklyn Antique Fair at Brooklyn Mall returns on Sat, Nov 30 2024 offering unique treasures perfect for thoughtful Christmas gifts –  think jewellery, ceramics, home décor, and more.

For Joburgers, the Nelson Mandela Square Antique Fair on Sun, Dec 1 2024, is your chance to find one-of-a-kind presents closer to home. Both fairs are packed with collectibles and trinkets that’ll bring a little nostalgia and sparkle to your holiday season.

Sat, Dec 14 – Sun, Dec 15, 2024: A feel-good musical spectacular 

Mzansi Youth Choir are guest performers at this musical extravangaza. Photo: Supplied.

A Swingin' Christmas brings big band energy to the Big Top Arena at Carnival City for one weekend only on Sat, Dec 14 and Sun, Dec 15. Expect a spectacular stage, beautiful voices, and a fabulous band. Take your family to this festive performance by the acclaimed 18-piece Johannesburg Big Band, led by Adam Howard. Enjoy special guest performances by Kurt DarrenZwai BalaHarry Sideropoulos, and Monique Steyn, as well as the renowned Mzansi Youth Choir. Those who remember last year's Swingle Bells concert and the more recent Swingin' Las Vegas, which had audiences in raptures (both conducted by Howard), know this is not to be missed. Book tickets here

Fri, Nov 1 – Sun, Dec 15, 2024: Soaring with The Cirk

Fabulous acrobatics and dazzling dance moves. Photo: The Cirk.

Feel like you're in the roaring 20s with The Cirk's latest production, Gatsby: A Cirque Extravaganza, showing at Cresta Shopping Centre from Fri, Nov 1 – Sun, Dec 15. Imagine stepping into one of Jay Gatsby's legendary parties from F. Scott Fitzgerald's 1925 novel The Great Gatsby, but with acrobats flying overhead, contortionists bending reality, and dazzling dancers swirling about. Stage a daring circus act in the height of America's jazz age, and you have The Cirk's rip-roaring new production – replete with all the glamour, excess, and tragic romance you'd expect. With a cast of eight spectacularly talented dancer-aerialists, this family-friendly show is sure to sweep you off your feet. Book tickets here

Thu Dec 5, 2024 – Sun Jan 5, 2025: 'Momo's Magical Adventure'

The cast of 'Momo's Magical Adventure'. Photo: Supplied.

Momo's Magical Adventure returns to Sandton City from Thu Dec 5 – Sun Jan 5 2025, bringing Momo and her friend Mack the Meerkat on a magical journey through starlit skies, deep seas, and cosmic realms. Expect dazzling choreography, original music, and imaginative set design. Performances take place in a custom-built tent in the mall's centre court (opposite Checkers). Tickest are R60 per person. There are four daily shows from Tue – Sun. Book tickets here.

Sat, Dec 7, 2024: Thandiswa Mazwai's Umbulelo 

Singer Thandiswa Mazwai. Photo: Supplied.

Singer Thandiswa Mazwai returns home for a special show at the South African State Theatre on Sat, Dec 7 2024. Titled Umbulelo (meaning Thanksgiving), this emotional show celebrates her supporters and features hits from albums like Zabalaza alongside new tracks like Sabala and Kulungile from her latest release, 2024's Sankofa

Sat, Jan 11, 2025: Milk + Cookies Festival headlined by Kaytranada

Catch Kaytranada will be live in Joburg at the city's inaugural Milk + Cookies Festival. Photo: Kaytranada via Instagram.

Cure those post-holiday blues on Sat, Jan 11, as Joburg's inaugural Milk + Cookies Festival kicks off at Old Park Station, headlined by renowned producer, DJ, and rapper Kaytranada. The festival is part of Milk + Cookies Music Week South Africa, which takes place from Tue, Dec 31 – Sat, Jan 11. The festival blends local culture with global sounds, promising an exciting start to the new year. Book tickets here.

Note: This list is updated regularly, check back for new additions. 

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