The countdown to Christmas 2024 has begun, and the festive spirit is sweeping the city with markets, theatre shows, and twinkling light displays to look forward to.

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

From Wed, Nov 6 2024 – Sun, Dec 22 2024, 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 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 its "Throwback Cinema" series from Fri, Nov 8 – Fri, Feb 7 2025, offering classic films for just R50 per ticket at their Rosebank and Sandton locations. Every Friday, a new throwback film is released, with multiple screenings each week. It’s the perfect opportunity to revisit your favourite films at a classic price

Thu, Nov 14 2024 – Sun, Nov 17 2024: Festive shopping with 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 or simply an excellent way 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 4 2025: Destination Christmas at Melrose Arch

Destination Christmas at Melrose Arch runs from Fri, Nov 15 – Sat, Jan 4 2025, 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 over 40 stalls, along with sweets, food trucks, and family activities throughout December. Other festive highlights include a roaming Santa, face painting, and live music, making it the fun family holiday destination in the city.

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

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? The Firs complex is linked directly to The Zone @ Rosebank's piazza, leading on to even more shops and a great selection of restaurants to visit after the market. 

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

Back by popular demand, Worlds Away: A Journey to Circusland by The Cirk returns for one magical weekend, from Fri, Nov 22 2024 – Sun, Nov 24 2024 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 unique performances that soar above the audience. Perfect for the whole family, this captivating show explores courage, belonging, and wonder. Book tickets here.

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

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, big 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 Darren, Zwai Bala, Harry Sideropoulos, Monique Steyn, as well as the renowned Mzansi Youth Choir. Those who remember last year's Swingle Bells concert and the more recent Swinging Las Vegas that had audiences in raptures, both conducted by Howard, know this is not to be missed. Book tickets here. 

Fri, Nov 1 2024 – Sun, Dec 15 2024: Soaring with 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 show is sure to sweep you off your feet. It's suitable for all ages, so bring the kids along and watch their faces light up. Book tickets here. 

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

Momo's Magical Adventure returns to Sandton City from Thu Dec 5 2024  – 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 Sandton City’s centre court, with tickets at R60 per person for four daily shows from Tue – Sun. Book tickets here.

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

Get a chance to cure those post-holiday blues on Sat, Jan 11 2025, Joburg's inaugural Milk + Cookies Festival kicks off at Old Park Station, headlined by renowned producer, DJ, and rapper Kaytranada. Part of the Milk + Cookies Music Week South Africa happening Tue, Dec 31 2024 – Sat, Jan 11 2025, the festival blends local culture with global sounds, promising an exciting start to the year. Book tickets here.

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