Where to visit Santa in Johannesburg

Step into full festive fantasy at Fourways Mall, where Santa Land: The Jingle Bell Academy turns little ones into honorary elves-in-training. Kids can decorate cookies, stack “presents” like pros, write letters to Santa, and journey through magical themed zones before graduating with a special meet-and-greet (and photo, of course) with Father Christmas himself.

The experience runs from 10 to 24 December, and because it’s one of Joburg’s most popular Christmas adventures, be sure to book your 1.5-hour session on Quicket before slots disappear.

Emperors Palace goes all out with its dazzling Christmas Village, a glowing wonderland filled with lights, characters, games, treats, and plenty of merry photo opportunities.

Wander through the twinkling displays, grab a bite, enjoy the entertainment, and, of course, pop into the dedicated Santa area for a magical meet-and-greet.

The Village runs daily through December in 90-minute slots, and because it’s one of Jozi’s busiest holiday hotspots, you have to book your tickets ahead of time.

Sandton City’s City of Enchantment is one of the most magical places in Joburg to meet Santa this year. The journey leads little ones through twinkling lights, festive touches, and interactive stations, from decorating giant cookies to crafting baubles and tree ornaments, before arriving at the highlight: a warm, glowing photo moment with Father Christmas himself.

Running from 5 to 28 December (closed on Christmas Day), activities cost between R50 and R200, with bookings made at the venue.

Spot the big guy in red at Carnival City, where Santa pops in throughout December for festive photos and feel-good holiday magic. It’s a fun, free stop for families looking to soak up the season, just swing by between 15 and 25 December and catch him during one of his many appearances.

Eastgate’s Candy Cane Lane is all about the joy of meeting Santa in a fun, festive setting. After enjoying playful treats like reindeer-themed ice cream, festive face painting, and games at Rudolph’s Gaming Station, little ones can head to Santa’s photo grotto on the lower level for a magical meet-and-greet and a keepsake photo.

Don’t forget to drop a letter in the special “Letters to Santa” post box for that extra sprinkle of holiday magic. Running daily from 10 to 24 December, entry is R50, with optional add-on activities for extra festive fun.

Gold Reef City lights up for the festive season, but the real highlight is catching Santa in action! From 12 to 21 December, little ones can meet Father Christmas and his elves, snap a festive photo, and soak up the sparkling holiday atmosphere that fills the park. It’s the perfect spot to share some seasonal magic and make memories that shine just as bright as the Christmas lights.

Melrose Arch’s Destination Christmas makes meeting Santa a sparkling, unforgettable experience. He always arrives in style, rolling up in a classic Rolls-Royce. Kids can hand their letters directly to him at the Santa installation on High Street and the Piazza, snap a festive photo, and maybe even win one of five special prizes by posting their letters in Santa’s post box.

All around, the sparkling European-style lights and whimsical characters make meeting Santa feel even more magical. The fun runs daily from 5 to 31 December, 6:30 PM to 10 PM, with free entry to the precinct.