Looking for unforgettable festive activities with kids in Johannesburg this December? Sandton City is unveiling something extraordinary for the 2025 holiday season, the City of Enchantment, a brand-new festive world filled with creative fun, sensory wonder and magical family moments. Running from 5 to 28 December 2025, this immersive experience promises to be one of Joburg’s top holiday outings for families with children.
Whether your kids love decorating cookies, writing letters to Santa or exploring whimsical festive displays, the City of Enchantment is designed to spark imagination and bring the magic of the season to life.
What Is the City of Enchantment?
From the moment visitors enter the transformed Sandton City Centre Court, they will step into a festive wonderland shaped by sweetness, sparkle and creativity. The activation is packed with hands-on activities perfect for children under 13 — and of course, their parents who love making memories together.
The City of Enchantment is open daily from 9am–6pm (closed on 25 December), and each activity can be enjoyed individually or as part of the full experience, priced between R50 and R200.
Fun, Creative Activities for Kids
Here’s what families can look forward to:
1. Sprinkle & Sugar – Giant Cookie Decorating
Kids can get creative with oversized gingerbread-style cookies shaped like festive trees, bears, baubles and more. A delightful edible activity for young artists.
2. Donut & Dazzle – Krispy Kreme DIY
Every child becomes a doughnut designer with Krispy Kreme’s DIY kits. Expect plenty of icing, sprinkles and joyful mess!
3. Trees & Twinkle – Mini Festive Tree Decorating
Children can decorate their own mini tree — the perfect keepsake to display at home.
4. Baubles & Bliss – Personalised Ornaments
From glitter to paint to creative flair, kids can customise a bauble that will hang proudly on the family tree for years.
5. Words & Wishes – Letters to Santa
Little ones can write heartfelt letters before meeting Santa himself for a festive photo moment.
Along the way, families will encounter charming touches such as Santa’s wishing well, a drawbridge, and a reindeer merry-go-round, making the whole experience feel like a storybook come to life.
Photos With Santa at Sandton City
Santa will be available for photos in the Centre Court from 5–24 December, daily from 9am–6pm.
Photo packages start at R100, giving families affordable options for capturing those treasured moments.
Festive Décor Throughout Sandton City
Sandton City has introduced exquisite new festive décor for 2025, including:
- A spectacular balloon, tree and glass façade installation in Protea Court
- Gigantic sparkling pendants in the Centre Court
- Magical festive touches throughout the mall
Perfect for a family photo walk after enjoying the City of Enchantment activities.
Extended Holiday Shopping Hours
Planning your Christmas shopping? Sandton City’s extended trading hours make it easier for families to browse at their own pace.
Holiday trading hours include:
- 5–14 December: 9am–8pm
- 15–23 December: 9am–9pm
- 24 December: 9am–6pm
- Selected stores open: 25 December & 1 January
With over 380 stores, shoppers can explore fashion, beauty, tech, toys, wellness and decor — everything needed to tick off those wish lists.
Keep an eye out for the Sandton City digital gift guide, arriving soon on social media with curated gifting inspiration, perfect for parents looking for thoughtful ideas.
Gift Wrapping for a Good Cause
From 1–24 December, Sandton City will host two gift-wrapping stations, with proceeds supporting the SPCA. Families can enjoy beautifully wrapped gifts while contributing to a heartwarming cause that supports the wellbeing of animals.
A Festive Experience Designed for Families
Dimitri Kokinos, Asset Manager of Sandton City, says the debut of the City of Enchantment was designed to “bring families together in a space filled with warmth, imagination and heartfelt moments.” It’s the perfect addition to Johannesburg’s festive calendar and an ideal holiday outing for parents looking to create meaningful memories with their children.
City of Enchantment Essentials
- Dates: 5–28 December 2025 (closed on 25 December)
- Times: 9am–6pm daily
- Location: Sandton City Centre Court
- Prices: R50–R200 depending on activity
- Santa Photos: 5–24 December, from R100
- Gift Wrapping: 1–24 December in aid of the SPCA
Note: All children must be accompanied by an adult.
Why Families Will Love It
- Creative, hands-on fun for kids
- Safe, structured activities for all ages
- Beautiful décor perfect for festive photo memories
- Easy access to shopping, treats and cafés
- Supports a child-friendly holiday atmosphere in the heart of Johannesburg
Plan Your Visit
For updates, visit sandtoncity.com or follow @sandtoncitymall.
And if you’re looking for more festive activities to do with kids in Gauteng, browse our latest Gauteng guide on Things to do With Kids and follow us on Facebook and Instagram.
