If you happen to be in Joburg in December, then you are going to need this. Many Joburgers head for the coast at this time, to see friends and family in other provinces, or abroad for a winter getaway, which means you get the benefit of a quieter city, with a lot less noise and hardly any traffic.

It also means that after the public holiday on December 16, Day of Reconciliation (a holiday that came into effect in 1995 in the post-apartheid era, with the intention of fostering national unity in South Africa) many businesses close until after Christmas and New Year to give their staff a break after what is usually a fast-paced year. 

It's not that there is nothing to do in Joburg at this time. There is actually a lot, as long as you know where to look for it. Here's where Johannesburg in Your Pocket comes in – we've put together a handy guide for just about any holiday situation. 

Start with our list of Christmas markets, lights, fairs and productions, and then check out where to eat Christmas lunch and, or dinner.  

Next up is where to celebrate New Year's Eve, and where to eat out during the Christmas and New Year holidays.

For what to do, see our event round-up, or take a break in Joburg with our favourite staycation picks. 

It's a beautiful time of year to explore Joburg's best parks or head for a swim at one of Joburg's public swimming pools. If you're still finding the heat hard to beat, here's where to get a lick of Joburg's best ice cream or check out our list of outdoor dining spots (call ahead to check their festive opening hours).

Swap the sound of a busy city for the sounds of Joburg with our #MyJoburg song playlist or curl up with a good book. You can't go wrong with our #MyJoburg reading list. We also made you a list of our favourite Johannesburg in Your Pocket articles that we wrote this year.

While many art galleries close over this time, Joburg has an incredible number of public art works worth visiting. 

If fun is top of mind, and you are looking to entertain the whole family we suggest a visit The Zone, 

If you do want to travel further afield, take a hike. Many of the best hiking trails are less than an hour out of Joburg in just about any direction. For a bigger travel adventure, we suggest you use this guide to South Africa's national gardens as a way to craft your itinerary. It's food for the soul.