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Ten years of festive memories call for something special!
That’s why this year, the Trail of Lights returns to Durban Botanic Gardens in December with an entirely new experience themed ‘10 Years of Wonder’ as visitors ‘Discover a New World’.
Running from 9 December 2026 to 2 January 2027, the event transforms the historic gardens into a glowing festive wonderland, with brand-new interactive attractions alongside the familiar favourites that have made it a December tradition for Durban families.
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10 years of wonder – and a new world to explore
Over the past decade, the Trail of Lights has grown into one of KZN’s signature festive attractions.
What began as a seasonal light show is now a festive ritual for many, bringing together Christmas displays, entertainment, food and activities beneath the gardens’ leafy canopy.
“Ten years ago, we set out to give Durban families a festive tradition of their own,” says founder and organiser Alene Naidoo.
“A decade on, we're not just celebrating what we've built - we're stepping into a completely new era. This isn't an anniversary edition, with a few new additions. It's a brand-new show, from the ground up, with lights and features never before seen in Durban or anywhere else on the continent.”
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What to look forward to at the Trail of Lights
Here’s what visitors can look forward to at the 10th anniversary edition.
- The Tree of Wonder: A spectacular new interpretation of the iconic Christmas tree, created especially for this year’s experience.
- Immersive themed attractions: Discover new displays and interactive features designed to take the light show to another level.
- Two food gardens: Refuel with festive favourites and gourmet treats along the trail.
- Live entertainment: Enjoy performances and festive sounds throughout the evening.
- Santa’s Grotto: Little visitors can meet Santa and get into the Christmas spirit.
- Santa’s Village: Explore a dedicated kids’ activity and retail zone, including a Build-A-Bear South Africa pop-up in partnership with Toy Kingdom, where visitors can create and personalise their own furry friend.
- Zipline adventures: Take to the skies beneath the canopy of the gardens’ established trees.
- Virtual reality experiences: Try a range of holiday-themed VR content and family-friendly activities.
- Project Rhino: Learn about rhino conservation at an awareness display, with an adult rhino installation along the trail carrying its own conservation message.
- Paws ’n Claus Nights: Bring your four-legged friends along on 10 or 14 December for a charity-focused evening. Entry costs R60 per dog.
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What you need to know
- Where: Durban Botanic Gardens, John Zikhali Road, Durban
- When: 9 December 2026 to 2 January 2027
- Time slots: 6pm | 7.30pm
- Tickets: From R85 per person online, with pensioner and group discounts available | Gate price is R120 per person | Free for children two and under
- Book: Webtickets, or in-store at Pick n Pay and Boxer
- Social media: Facebook: com/DurbanBotanicGardensTrailofLights |Instagram: @dbntrailoflights | TikTok: @dbntrailoflights
- Website:
Early-bird ticket sales end this month, so book your tickets now to enjoy the 10th anniversary celebrations at a discounted price!
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