Sandton is buzzing with a wealth of entertainment, shopping, and magical experiences as the festive season is upon us and Christmas is around the corner!
- The city’s top destinations have transformed into enchanting hubs of jolliness, ensuring unforgettable moments for visitors of all ages.
- Sandton City delivers festive magic with extended hours, gift-wrapping for charity, and Momo’s Magical Adventure.
- Dive into a world of imagination and adventure at Mall of Africa’s DreamWorks “Find the Fun” activation.
- Visit www.sandtontimes.co.za for more stories.
Sandton transforms into a shimmering festive paradise during the holiday season, offering a rich tapestry of experiences for locals and visitors alike. From the iconic Montecasino and glittering Sandton City to Melrose Arch’s festive flair and Fourways Mall’s enchanting Santa Land or Mall of Africa’s extensive holiday entertainment, there’s no shortage of joy and excitement this Christmas. Dive into our comprehensive guide to explore what makes greater Sandton the ultimate destination for holiday cheer:
1. Montecasino: A Festive Extravaganza
Montecasino is undoubtedly Gauteng’s ultimate festive hotspot. Its iconic Italian-inspired architecture serves as the perfect backdrop for an immersive holiday experience. This year, the Magical Italian Village of Lights returns, bigger and brighter than ever. With nearly 500’000 LED lights and over 20 new selfie spots, visitors are invited to bask in the glow of festive cheer.
For those seeking unique gifts, the Festive Market from 16 to 23 December 2024 is a must-visit. Hosted in Montecasino’s Ballroom, this curated market offers handcrafted treasures, festive foods, and bespoke keepsakes that will elevate any holiday celebration. Open daily from noon to 9 PM, it’s the perfect blend of shopping and seasonal indulgence.
Entertainment takes center stage at Montecasino’s theatres, where world-class shows promise to enthrall audiences. Disney fans can sing along with The Magic Box, while families can embrace the timeless charm of A Christmas Carol. Ballet enthusiasts will revel in The ABBA Show: A Cinderella Story, and music lovers can groove to deep house beats at the Deep in the City Festival. With blockbuster films like Gladiator II and Moana 2 at Movies@Montecasino, the entertainment options are endless.
Dining at Montecasino is a culinary adventure. With over 30 restaurants and bars, every palate is catered for. Whether you crave authentic Italian, fiery Portuguese, or sumptuous Indian cuisine, Montecasino offers it all. For nature lovers, the Bird Gardens provide a serene escape, while gaming enthusiasts can enjoy thrilling promotions with incredible prizes up for grabs.
2. Sandton City: A Festive Shopper’s Paradise
At the heart of Sandton, Sandton City is bringing the holiday magic with an impressive line-up of festive activities. The award-winning Momo’s Magical Adventure returns, delighting young audiences with a new storyline featuring cosmic adventures and celestial friends. Running from 5 December 2024 to 5 January 2024, this theatrical production is a visual feast that captivates children and adults alike.
The center’s festive décor is a spectacle in itself. A giant lit-up balloon in the Protea Court and a stunning animated cone tree on Rivonia Road create the perfect holiday ambiance. Shoppers can also participate in the 12 Days of Christmas competition, where exciting prizes await.
Extended shopping hours from 13 to 23 December 2024 ensure stress-free holiday preparations. Santa will make his cheerful appearance from 2 to 24 December 2024, posing for photos and spreading joy in the Centre Court.
3. Melrose Arch: Destination Christmas
Melrose Arch radiates festive cheer with its beloved Destination Christmas experience. The precinct’s renowned light displays are back, featuring even more dazzling installations. Stroll beneath a canopy of twinkling lights and marvel at the enchanting decorations that make this destination a photographer’s dream.
Live performances add a musical touch to the festivities. The Jeppe Pipe Band brings its signature blend of carols and traditional classics to High Street on 13 December 2024. Meanwhile, a live pianist enchants audiences with magical melodies, providing the perfect soundtrack to holiday shopping.
Unique gifts await at the Melrose Arch Christmas Market, running from 26 to 30 November 2024. Open-air stalls offer artisanal products, festive décor, and delightful treats, making gift-hunting a joyous experience. From 13 to 16 December 2024, additional pop-up stores in the retail galleria showcase luxurious gifting options beneath glittering gold pendants.
Families will love the return of Sweets, Treats, and Toys, where delectable confections and gourmet delights are on offer daily. For whisky enthusiasts, the Johnnie Walker Ice Chalet promises exclusive tastings and masterclasses in a luxurious setting.
4. Fourways Mall: Santa Land Adventure
The whimsical Santa Land Adventure at Fourways Mall is back, bringing a world of fun for families. This year, the adventure zones are better than ever, with each area designed to create magical memories.
Brand-new attractions like Santa’s Bubble Bounce and the high-tech Ball Playground add to the excitement, ensuring there’s something for children of all ages. Treat yourself to festive delights from Cotton Candy Lane or indulge in decadent desserts from Jolly Donut Co. and Aux Petit Four. With a steady flow of visitors, the wristband system ensures a relaxed and enjoyable experience for all.
5. Mall of Africa: Find the Fun
This holiday season, Mall of Africa is set to become the ultimate family destination, as it hosts the highly anticipated return of DreamWorks’ “Find the Fun” activation. Running from 11 December 2024 to 24 December 2024, the mall’s centre court (just outside Spur) will be transformed into a vibrant and immersive playground, designed to captivate children and families alike.
The DreamWorks “Find the Fun” experience is an action-packed extravaganza, filled with exciting activities and interactive games that cater to fans of all ages. Whether you’re drawn to the Trolls’ joyful tunes, Madagascar’s wild adventures, or Kung Fu Panda’s martial arts antics, there’s something for everyone. Participants in the games will have the chance to win spot prizes, adding an extra layer of excitement to the experience.
One of the event’s major highlights is the daily live appearances of some of DreamWorks’ most beloved characters at 1pm. Each day features a different star, providing fans with the opportunity to meet and interact with their favorite heroes in person. Be sure to check the detailed schedule for the full list of characters appearing throughout the event.
In addition to the main centre court activation, the fun will spill out across the mall with a custom-designed treasure hunt trail. Shoppers will have the chance to explore the mall while solving clues, seamlessly combining holiday shopping with the thrill of a treasure hunt. It’s a fantastic way for families to enjoy the festive spirit while discovering all that the Mall of Africa has to offer.
The event is open daily from 9am to 6pm, offering ample time to experience everything this magical activation has to offer. Whether you’re marveling at light displays, enjoying world-class entertainment, or indulging in festive treats, greater Sandton promises a Christmas season filled with joy, wonder, and lasting memories.
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