Lee Cole On His Fondest Christmas Memories, Performing at the SPAR Carols By Candlelight with Jacaranda FM and his new single ‘Palace of Dreams’

South African pop sensation Lee Cole is gearing up for one of the country’s most beloved festive traditions as he joins the star-studded lineup for SPAR Carols by Candlelight with Jacaranda FM. Known for his powerhouse vocals and heartfelt songwriting, Lee is ready to help families welcome the Christmas spirit with an evening of music, meaning and magic. 

The annual event, held in partnership with SPAR and Jacaranda FM, brings together top local artists to raise funds and collect toys for children in need via Santa’s Shoebox, a cause especially close to the artist’s heart. With an orchestra, choir, and thousands of voices joining in, it’s one of the most anticipated live festive concerts on the calendar.

Ahead of Lee Cole’s performance at the show this Thursday, the singer opens up about his favourite festive memories and gives insight into his new single ‘Palace Of Dreams’. 

The festive season is right around the corner. Why is this the most wonderful time of the year for you?

Christmas is without a doubt my favourite time of the year. Being with family and connecting and resetting is just special. There’s a pause in your life for a few days and it feels so natural. 

What are some of your favourite Christmas memories?

There’s probably a few too many to mention, but I would say just the food and the fact that as a kid you’d always look forward to everyone coming to your house. There was always a sense of togetherness.

What’s a small Christmas tradition that means a lot to you or your family?

Well, we actually have a tradition of opening gifts at midnight on Christmas Eve. It’s fun and a little different.

What’s your go-to holiday comfort movie or series when you want to switch off?

I wouldn’t say I have any if I’m honest, but musically, I would say Michael Bublé and Mariah Carey.

What’s your favourite Christmas carol to perform and why?

‘It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas’. It’s just a song that is smooth and suave. Gets me in the Christmas spirit every time.

You’re taking part in SPAR Carols By Candlelight presented by Jacaranda FM this year. What are you most excited about the show?

There’s so much to be excited about, to be fair. I think working with Adrian Paulson and the host of world-class talent we have on the night gets me fired up the most. The line-up is incredible this year.

 What can audiences expect from the show this year?

They can expect high energy, good vibes and all of their favourite Christmas carols sung by some of South Africa’s best musicians.

You’ve also just released your new single ‘Palace Of Dreams’. Tell us a little bit about what inspired the song?

‘Palace Of Dreams’ is one of my favourite singles I have released to date because of the vibe. It, in a way, complements this festive season in energy and feel. It’s essentially about dancing through unknown territory and learning to face fear, I suppose.

As the year draws to a close, what can fans expect from you in 2026?

2026 is going to be a year of growth for me. You can expect a lot of new music and I am so excited to share it with everyone!

TICKETS SOLD OUT — HERE’S HOW TO WATCH

While tickets to the live event are officially sold out, fans across South Africa can still tune in to experience the magic from home. SPAR Carols By Candlelight with Jacaranda FM will be livestreamed on www.jacarandafm.com at 7pm on Thursday, 4 December 2025, allowing every fan to join the celebration. 

For those who want to relive the festive cheer or enjoy the concert during Christmas preparations, the full event will be rebroadcast all day on 24 December on www.jacarandafm.com, providing the perfect musical backdrop to Christmas Eve.