Get ready, Joburg! Destination Christmas returns to Melrose Arch with their famous twinkling lights, family activities, magical markets, live entertainment, and so much more. With exciting events happening throughout the precinct, you’ll find something special around every corner this festive season.
What Can I Expect From Destination Christmas at Melrose Arch?
Melrose Arch transforms into a wonder-filled festive destination every year, and 2025’s edition is bigger, brighter, and more magical than ever. You'll need more than just one day to properly take in all the Massive Christmas installations, live music, themed characters, markets, competitions and family-friendly fun. Here’s your full breakdown of everything happening across the precinct:
Stroll Through The Lights
The iconic Melrose Arch Christmas lights are up and glowing until 4 January 2026. Wander through the European-style displays with a complimentary colourful umbrella – perfect for magical photos, date nights, and balmy summer evenings under the stars. With bigger and bolder installations this year, it’s a must-see festive experience.
Letters To Santa
Encourage your little ones to write their letters to Santa! They'll be distributed by Santa himself, with the help of the whimsical Destination Christmas characters stationed at the Santa installation on High Street and on the Piazza. Children can delight in posting their letters in Santa’s Post Box at the entrance to Destination Christmas Fun Zone, in the basement below Moove Motion Fitness Gym. Get posting, and stand a chance to win 1 of 5 Destination Christmas gifts!
Jameson Festive Market
6 – 27 December 2025 | free entry
The ever-popular Jameson Festive Market at the Piazza brings you:Exclusive Jameson tastings | Gift personalisation stationsMixologist showdowns | Cocktail-of-the-week specialsLive entertainment | Interactive games
Trading Hours:Thursdays & Fridays: 4 pm – 10 pmSaturdays & Sundays: 12 pm – 9 pm
Spend, Spin & Win Competition
28 November – 23 December 2025 | 12 pm – 4 pm
Spend R1 000 or more at any participating retailer and spin the wheel for amazing prizes. You're going to do Christmas shopping anyway, so you might as well do it here and stand the chance to win!Location: Woolworths Court, Middle Level, Retail Galleria
Prizes include:OMODA and JAECOO cash vouchers | Charles Tyrwhitt designer jerseys | David Tlale Emoji boxy t-shirts | Forever New shopping vouchers | Hampers from The Flower Market |Spa, restaurant and beauty vouchers from Camelot Spa, Waxit, Sorbet, The Grillhouse, Mezepoli, and more!
The Melrose Arch Market
10 – 15 December 2025 | 3 pm – 9 pm.
Prefer outdoor gifting? Visit the charming Melrose Arch Market for handmade Christmas goodies, seasonal treats, and customisable festive surprises.
Destination Christmas Fun Zone
5 – 31 December 2025 | 6:30 pm – 10 pm
A brand-new addition to Destination Christmas, the Fun Zone brings thrilling activities for all ages. Have some fun at the Retro Rolla pop-up roller-skating rink. If you're feeling brave, take on the Glo Riders glow-in-the-dark cycling adventure!
Fun For a Cause
Head to Upper High Street every Friday–Sunday for an immersive festive Disney experience the whole family will love.
Expect appearances from cherished Disney personalities and famous Christmas characters! We know you've always wanted to meet the gingerbread man. There'll be face painting, stalls of toys, mini doughnuts, candyfloss on glowsticks. Have a more refined palate? Grab some matcha and chocolate-covered strawberries.
For More Information
Visit the Melrose Arch website at www.melrosearch.co.za or phone 011 684 0000.Follow them on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to keep up to date with the latest events, news, and offers.
