While most of the city is tucked away behind tinsel and turkey, Johannesburg on Christmas Day offers a rare, tranquil magic. No traffic, no queues, and a handful of the city’s best attractions stay wide open for those who don’t celebrate the holiday, or just want to escape the festive fuss. Here is your ultimate guide to a non-traditional December 25th in the City of Gold.
Take a wild ride
Christmas Day is a surprisingly great time to get out into nature. The Lion & Safari Park, just outside Joburg, is open year-round (including Christmas) and offers self-drive and guided safari options where you can spot lions, cheetahs, giraffes and more. It’s a relaxed way to spend the day, especially if you’re looking for something outdoorsy that doesn’t involve crowds or Christmas décor. It also feels like a genuine getaway without leaving the province.
Good for: Families, nature lovers, and those seeking fresh air.
Hang out with Lady Luck
If you’re looking for a place where the concept of time and holidays doesn't exist, the casinos are your best bet. Some of Joburg’s most popular spots, like Gold Reef City Casino and Montecasino, are open 24/7, including Christmas Day. It’s a great spot for some high-energy entertainment when the rest of the city feels like a ghost town.
Good for: Easy entertainment and dining in one place.
See the city in Red
The famous City Sightseeing Red Bus runs 365 days a year, and Christmas Day is arguably the best day of the year to do it because the lack of traffic means you’ll zip through the "Green" and "City" tours in record time. Start your tour at The Zone @ Rosebank and then hop off at the Zoo or just stay on the top deck to admire the architecture of the CBD and the views from Munro Drive. It's essential to note that while the bus is running, specific stops, such as Constitution Hill and the Apartheid Museum, are closed. Therefore, consider this a scenic "wind-in-your-hair" tour rather than a traditional museum hop.
Good for: A low-effort city day.
Take a walk on the wild side
A Jozi staple that never sleeps, the Johannesburg Zoo is open 365 days a year, including Christmas Day. It’s the perfect place for a long walk or a quiet picnic under the trees. If you’re lucky, you can catch the "Festival of Lights" in the evening (check for ticketed evening sessions), but during the day, it’s business as usual for the animals.
Good for: A relaxed daytime activity with or without kids.
Book a cinematic escape
When in doubt, go to the movies. Ster-Kinekor and Nu Metro cinemas across the city (like those at Sandton City, Rosebank Mall, or Cresta) remain open on Christmas Day. With no mall crowds to fight through, you can usually get the best seats in the house for the year's biggest summer blockbusters. It’s a classic, low-pressure way to spend the day, especially if everything else feels a little too quiet.
Good for: Solo outings or an easy afternoon plan.
Time Out Tip: While these venues are open, some may have slightly adjusted hours or require pre-booking (especially the Lion Park and the Red Bus). Always check their websites on the morning of the 25th to confirm the latest schedules!
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