The Most Exciting Things to Do in Gauteng This Holiday Season

Gauteng bursts into life over the holiday season, offering an incredible mix of entertainment, culture, family outings, and festive magic. For those looking for world-class theatre, unforgettable wildlife encounters, delicious culinary outings or musical moments that spark joy, Gauteng has something for everyone this holiday season. 

 

Here are five standout experiences you won’t want to miss if you find yourself in Gauteng this holiday season. 

 

 

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.

 

 

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.

 

 

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.

 

 

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.

 

 

If you’re 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.

 

Gauteng's holiday season is packed with diverse experiences that cater to families, music lovers, nature enthusiasts, foodies, and partygoers alike. Start planning your outings today and make the most of this vibrant time of year.