Gauteng comes alive during the holiday season, serving up a vibrant mix of culture, entertainment, family fun, and festive cheer.
Be it you are after world-class theatre, unforgettable wildlife encounters, mouthwatering dining experiences, or music that lifts the spirits, Gauteng has something to delight everyone this holiday season.
Here are five must-try experiences you won’t want to miss while exploring the Gauteng Province this festive season:
1. Adventure awaits at The Lion & Safari Park
The Lion & Safari Park is the ultimate family destination this holiday season. The park offers an impressively expansive range of attractions and activities for you and the family. Whether it’s a classic game-drive, self-drives or even a relaxed Sunday lunch. For thrill-seekers, the park offers bush walks, quad adventures, horseback safaris and much more. It’s an ideal way to unwind, reconnect with nature and enjoy the sunshine this holiday season. Located just a short drive from Johannesburg, this spot provides thrilling encounters with lions, wild dogs, giraffes, and other wildlife, making it an ideal outing for creating lasting memories.
2. Sing along at SPAR Carols By Candlelight with Jacaranda FM
One of the most magical nights of the year is back as SPAR Carols by Candlelight with Jacaranda FM returns on Thursday, 4 December 2025 with a festive new production celebrating togetherness, joy and the true spirit of the season. Hosted at the SunBet Arena in Menlyn, Pretoria, this beloved annual event invites families, friends and music lovers to immerse themselves in a night of world-class performances and heart-warming Christmas cheer.
This year’s spectacular line-up features some of South Africa’s most beloved artists, including Elandré, Lee Cole, Zoë Modiga, Ruan du Toit, Charlize Berg, Lloyd Cele, Just 6, BlackByrd, Jesse Clegg and Ndlovu Youth Choir. While tickets to the live show are sold out, no one has to miss out: the event will be livestreamed on www.jacarandafm.com at 7pm on Thursday, 4 December 2025. And for those wanting to enjoy the magic again, or put it on as the soundtrack to Christmas preparations. the full event will be rebroadcast all day on 24 December on the Jacaranda FM website.
3. Experience the Magic of Janice Honeyman’s Pinocchio at Joburg Theatre
South Africa’s most beloved holiday theatre tradition returns as the legendary Janice Honeyman stages her 38th annual pantomime with an all-new magical production of Pinocchio, running until 24 December 2025 at the celebrated Joburg Theatre. Join us for a high-energy, heart-filled, and hilariously entertaining ride through the classic tale of the puppet who dreamed of becoming a real boy.
Honeyman reimagines Carlo Collodi’s timeless story with her signature sparkle, big laughs, and just the right amount of mayhem. Audiences young and old will be swept up in Pinocchio’s wild and whimsical quest to become real — learning along with him about honesty, courage, kindness, and what it truly means to be human. To add to this delightful Panto, we have a world class cast, who will be guiding us through the adventures of Pinocchio, like Katlego Nche, Gina Shmukler, Bongi Archi and more. Book now via Webtickets to experience the Panto magic.
4. Kick Off the New Year with fabric London in Johannesburg
The holiday season extends well into the new year for electronic music fans as the legendary Fabric London comes to Johannesburg and Cape Town in January. Gauteng will host the cutting-edge electronic music experience on Friday, 9 January 2026, at AND Club with TOYTOY. The Joburg show, headlined by global icons Marcel Dettmann, Gerd Janson, and Gabrielle Kwarteng, marks a deepening collaboration with the country’s vibrant dance music scene. This event is a new chapter in fabric’s 25-year legacy of connecting global dance music communities through cutting-edge electronic music experiences. Tickets are on sale now via Howler, guaranteeing a high-energy start to 2026.
5. Dine at Sandton’s new hotspot – La Salud
If you are looking for an unforgettable culinary adventure this festive season, make sure La Salud is at the top of your list. This new dining destination has just opened in the heart of Sandton. Born from a love of travel, culture, and the soulful connections created through food, La Salud promises diners more than just a meal, it offers a global gastronomic journey.
The menu is an ever-evolving mosaic of dishes inspired by kitchens from around the world, celebrating the fusion of tradition and innovation. Each plate tells its own story, surprising and delighting diners with creative pairings and bold flavours. Expect a diverse selection of dishes, from charcoal-grilled kebabs and tender lamb chops to fresh tacos, hearty burgers, wood-fired pizzas, crisp salads and comforting seafood. For reservations or more information, call 074 010 9229.
Editorial Note:
No payment or sponsorship influenced the publication of this content.
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