The festive countdown has begun, and there's already a hint of holiday cheer sweeping the city, with markets, theatre shows, and twinkling light displays. Here's our round-up of Joburg events to make this season a truly memorable one, from now into the new year. Save this, as we'll be updating it on the go.
1. Festive fun and live entertainment
Until Sat, Jan 31, 2026: Soar with The Cirk
Step into the roaring 1920s with The Cirk’s, Gatsby – A Cirque Extravaganza, at Cresta Shopping Centre. With eight phenomenal dancer-aerialists, this family-friendly spectacle combines breathtaking acrobatics with Gatsby-style glamour. Book your tickets here.
Until Wed, Dec 24, 2025: Panto magic for everyone
It wouldn’t be the festive season in Joburg without a Janice Honeyman pantomime! This year’s Pinocchio at the Joburg Theatre promises music, dance, circus magic, and laugh-out-loud fun for the whole family. Book your tickets here.
Until, Sun, Dec 28, 2025: Cape Ballet Africa’s The Nutcracker
Step into a world of festive ballet magic as Cape Ballet Africa brings The Nutcracker to the Teatro Montecasino. This brand-new production sparkles with South Africa’s finest classical dancers and international guest stars, transporting audiences into a dreamscape of twirling snowflakes, the Sugar Plum Fairy’s shimmering kingdom, and the brave Nutcracker Prince’s enchanted adventure. Book your tickets here.
Always-on: Ster-Kinekor's Throwback Cinema
The movies are always a good time, especially over the festive season. Ster-Kinekor celebrates cinematic nostalgia by offering classic films for just R50 per ticket at its Rosebank and Sandton theatres. It’s the perfect opportunity to revisit your favourite movies at a classic price. Book your tickets here.
Fri, Dec 12 – Sun, Dec 14, 2025: Makhelwane Festival
The annual Makhelwane Festival returns to Soweto from Fri, Dec 12 – Sun, Dec 14, 2025, bringing a liveley “Welcome Home” celebration to Poka Street. It's a mix of township flavours with live music and DJ sets, art, fashion, food, and a bustling makers’ market that champions local creativity. With street art, gourmet bites, family-friendly fun – it’s a three-day slice of Soweto culture at its most electric. Book here.
Sat, Dec 13 – Sat, Dec 27, 2025: Sunsets, city lights, and Christmas magic with City Sightseeing
With its iconic double-decker, topless Red Bus, City Sightseeing offers a special, three-hour tour to celebrate the festive season. The sunset and Christmas lights tour begins at the City Sightseeing ticket office at The Zone @ Rosebank, journeying to savour sunset views along Munro Drive with a complimentary snack, then moving on to explore shopping, dining, and festive events at Melrose Arch. Book your tickets now.
Sat, Dec 20, 2025: Norwood Mall's drive-in movie night
Norwood Mall is bringing back a dose of nostalgia with its Drive-In Movie Night featuring an 11-metre screen and this year’s fan-picked film, Inside Out 2 . Kids can enjoy pre-movie fun like a Zoom with Zebra activity and a mini driving adventure before settling in for the main event. With ticket options for cars or cosy bean bag pods (plus snack packages loaded with treats), it’s an easy, feel-good way to spark festive joy under the stars. Book tickets here .
2. Christmas lights and displays
Fri, Nov 14, 2025 – Sun, Jan 4, 2026: Destination Christmas at Melrose Arch
Magical moments await at Melrose Arch! Destination Christmas at Melrose Arch t urns the precinct into a festive wonderland with dazzling lights, a roller rink, sweet treats, kids’ activities, and al fresco dining under the stars.
