December 2025
Christmas in Johannesburg is a time for friends and family to gather and reconnect over sumptuous meals and festive drinks. After a long year of hard work in 2021, it's time to unwind and reflect while spending time with those we care about. Having the family together, however, can be a little chaotic, and planning a meal at home can be more frantic than fun.
The Christmas spirit
That's why we've compiled a list of experiences that the whole family will enjoy on Christmas Day.
Let the parents have the day off from driving, looking for parking, etc, and let our expert drivers be your chauffeur for the day. On Saturday, 25 December, join us on board our famous Red Open Top bus.
Family day out with City Sightseeing
Hop on our Jozi Red Tour from our main departure point in Rosebank and explore the leafy suburbs around Zoo Lake, stopping at all the top attractions such as the Mandela Foundation, before reaching Constitution Hill. You'll quickly understand why Joburg is not only Africa's economic playground but also one of the world's most leafy green cities.
Please note: All the usual attraction stops such as Gold Reef City, Transport Museum, and Apartheid Museum are closed on Christmas Day. However, there is still so much to see whilst onboard our open-top bus.
● R315 per adult
● R195 per child
● R845 for a family of 4 (2 adults, 2 child passes)
We definitely recommend booking the annual Festival of Lights at Joburg Zoo, which features an enchanting collection of illuminated life-size animal characters as well as classical, harmonious entertainment, food, and a night market. You can enjoy a tranquil walk in the zoo on a designated lit route away from the animals under trees decorated in enchanting lights. This is such a popular event in Jozi, and prebooking is recommended. Click here to secure your tickets.
The show is on daily from 19:00 – 22:00 (except for Mondays) and is guaranteed to be an amazing experience for people of all ages.
● R175 per adult
● R75 per child (aged 3 – 12 years) and kids under 3 are free
● R100 per pensioner
The amazing festival of lights
Family feasts
If you’re looking for something more upmarket and luxurious, we recommend a delicious Christmas lunch at Roar Bistro and Bar at the Michael Angelo Towers in Sandton (accessible via our yellow route). Lunch bookings are essential and will be served between 12:00 – 15:00. Visit their website for further info: https://www.roarbistroandbar.co.za/
Delicious Christmas Buffets
In Fourways, we definitely recommend The Indaba Hotel for their popular Christmas Eve Buffet Dinner. Experience Christmas Eve with an African twist at the Chiefs Boma African Experience Restaurant with all the Traditional Christmas Trimmings, and a buffet featuring over 120 traditional dishes, live music, and rhythmic drumming under the stars. Booking is essential:
https://www.indabahotel.co.za/specials
A little further afield in Muldersdrift, we highly recommend celebrating Christmas lunch with “a beast of a feast” at Carnivore Restaurant at Misty Hills. A delicious Christmas set menu will be served, and for those with younger kids under the age of 6, they eat for free!https://carnivore.co.za/
Joburg has plenty of festive options. Plan the day in advance, be sure to bring along your Christmas spirit, and have an amazing family day out. Merry Christmas to one and all.
