Bryanston’s Moray Drive transforms into a magical Christmas wonderland each festive season, led by the dedicated Danielle Goff, fondly known as “Mrs. Claus”.
- This year, the Annual Christmas Car Carnival takes place on 21 December 2024 at 7pm.
- Complete with a convoy of decorated vehicles, photos with Santa, and Christmas carols Moray Drive comes alive but once a year.
- Yet the real magic lies in the heart-warming story behind this dazzling display of lights and love.
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Danielle, originally from Cape Town, fondly recalls childhood visits to the festive lights on Adderley Street and the spirited Kaapse Klopse (Tweede Nuwe Jaar) parade. After moving to Johannesburg and settling in the suburbs, she found the quiet Decembers jarring as most residents headed out of town for holidays.
When I moved to Johannesburg I lived in the CBD and enjoyed the lights at Joubert Park but then when I got married and moved to the suburbs, my gosh, it literally felt like a ghost town from early December as most go on vacation.
// “Mrs. Claus” Danielle Goff
Determined to bring back the festive spirit, Danielle and her husband began decorating their home with a single tree and light. Over 19 years, that modest start blossomed into an entire street illuminated with festive cheer, a testament to her passion and her neighbours’ willingness to let her work her magic on their front yard.
Her displays cater to everyone, from children with disabilities who can enjoy the lights at their own pace to families looking for a touch of festive cheer. During the day, international visitors marvel at her thoughtful decorations, which offer charm and beauty beyond just twinkling lights. This year’s theme: Lights, Lights, Lights, celebrates a load-shedding-free Christmas – a rare blessing in recent years. Danielle’s joy at being able to focus entirely on her displays without relying on generators or solar power has only fuelled her creativity further.
A highlight of the festivities is the Annual Christmas Car Carnival, which has grown in scale and spectacle each year. Old classic cars adorned with dazzling lights parade down Moray Drive, their drivers dressed as beloved characters like the Grinch. Organized with the assistance of the Johannesburg Metro Police Department (JMPD), the convoy gathers at a designated spot before making its festive journey to Danielle’s wonderland.
Last year, after creating her most elaborate Christmas display to date, Danielle found herself completely burned out by the end of January. With her trusted helper having left in October to attend to family needs, she was left to pack and store everything on her own. Danielle, known for her meticulous care, even down to sweeping her section of the street and picking up litter, takes immense pride in her neighbourhood’s beauty. However, the sheer workload overwhelmed her, and for the first time, she considered stepping away from her role as “Mrs. Claus”. It was the heartfelt messages and encouragement from the community, sharing how much joy her displays added to their festive season, that reignited her determination to carry on.
This year, the carnival promises to be bigger and brighter than ever, with treats for the children and photo opportunities with Santa himself. Behind the dazzling lights lies a year-round effort. Danielle spends months crafting decorations, often from scratch, to ensure each year’s display is unique. From themed silver Christmas trees inspired by her anniversary to pink decorations for cancer awareness, every detail reflects her creativity and care.
The community’s respect for her work is heartening. Despite the potential risks of theft or damage, Danielle notes how visitors treat the decorations with admiration and reverence. Her biggest worry, she jokes, is not theft but Johannesburg’s notorious hailstorms.
A special feature of Danielle’s wonderland is the mailbox for letters to Santa, which she dutifully reads. The letters are a window into the hopes and dreams of children, ranging from whimsical requests for designer goods to heart-wrenching pleas for help with school fees or healing for struggling families.
One letter that stayed with me was from a child coping with her parents’ divorce. She wrote about seeing her mom cry and just wanted Santa to make things better. It’s moments like these that remind me why I do this.
// “Mrs. Claus” Danielle Goff
The COVID-19 pandemic was a challenging time for Danielle, as lockdowns limited in-person visits to her display. Yet, she adapted by sharing the decorations on social media, bringing comfort to those who couldn’t be there in person. One visitor, a grieving father who had lost his wife and his job, expressed gratitude for the open space and festive spirit that gave him and his child a moment of peace during a difficult time.
I have people sending me messages that as they take their commute to work, they try their best to take Moray Drive; people say that our street gives them hope and joy – that is what we all need!
// “Mrs. Claus” Danielle Goff
These experiences reaffirmed Danielle’s commitment to spreading joy, even when she felt overwhelmed by the immense effort her displays required. Danielle has big plans for the future, including a monumental celebration in 2026 that will mark her 21st year as “Mrs. Claus”, her 50th birthday, her husband’s 60th, and their pearl wedding anniversary. With 15 totes of new decorations already in storage, she’s planning an unforgettable spectacle.
My daughter Gia, who’s only eight, insists she’s the future Mrs. Claus. It’s wonderful to think the tradition will carry on.
// “Mrs. Claus” Danielle Goff
Every December, Moray Drive transforms from just a street to a symbol of togetherness and holiday cheer. Danielle’s efforts have created a safe, welcoming space where families can sing carols, take photos, and soak in the festive atmosphere. It’s a rare opportunity for human connection in a digital age, and it’s all free for anyone and everyone to enjoy.
Bryanston is a big suburb, and some people who’ve lived here for decades tell me they didn’t even know Moray Drive existed. Now, it’s a place of hope and joy for so many.
// “Mrs. Claus” Danielle Goff
This Christmas, make your way to Moray Drive in Bryanston for a festive experience that promises to delight the young and the young at heart. Whether it’s the twinkling lights, the carols, or the warm smiles of “Mrs. Claus” and her family, you’ll be sure to leave with a bit of festive spirit to cherish.
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