What Is It?

Join Stoneridge Shopping Centre for their Festive Summer Movie Night. Screening Disney's Moana for the kids, there will also be tons of entertainment for the grown ups. Visit the vacant store next to Ocean Basket for a beach vibe. Santa and his Flamingos will also be there to spread joy and cheer around to all. Entrance is free, as well as a limited supply of popcorn and slushies. Don't miss it!

When Is It?

Friday, 29 November 2019 at 18:00 - 21:00.

Where Is It?

Stoneridge Centre, Cnr. Modderfontein and Hereford Rd, Edenvale, Gauteng.

How Much Is It?

Free.

For more information

Follow them on Facebook for more information.

Papachinos

Papachinos is a much-loved family-friendly restaurant with locations all over Joburg. However, their branch at Stoneridge Shopping Centre offers a kid's party experience that will have your little one beaming from ear to ear. Not only can the birthday person and their band of buddies make their own pizzas, but the decor and atmosphere is all about the kids. That's not to say that the parents can't have a good time. Papachinos' menu caters to young and old, offering Italian-inspired family meals. Little bambinos can tuck into their fill of fries, burgers and waffles, while the adults indulge in a cocktail or two. The play area at Papachinos Greenstone is unrivaled. The kids will have hours of fun letting their imaginations run wild here, so book their next party at Papachinos!

Details: Cnr Modderfontein & Hereford Drive, Shop 95, Stoneridge Centre, Greenstone, Edenvale, Gauteng | 010 449 9941 | [email protected]

Go Ape SA

When you think of Modderfontein, you are not likely to imagine a paradise for kids. However, you would be wrong to assume that there is nothing for the kids to get up to in this old dynamite town. Go Ape SA is an aerial park situated smack bang in the middle of Modderfontein. They offer climbing, scaling and obstacle courses for children aged four to 18. So, whether you are a parent to a precious pre-schooler or sullen teen, this party venue is sure to delight them. You also need not worry about safety, as there are strict guidelines according to ages. Little ones are kept far from the older tree climbers, so risk of injury is minimal. Go Ape caters to parties for kids aged five and upwards, offering a designated party area, snacks and party packs. Let's get climbing!

Details: Go Ape SA, Corner of Valley Rd & Johannesburg Rd, Modderfontein, Lethabong, Gauteng | 072 544 0415 | [email protected]

Gravity 

Trampoline parks have jumped up all over the city. However, for a fantastic kids party in the East, check out Gravity at Bedford Centre. More than just a bounce centre, Gravity has an array of adrenaline pumping activities, including a climbing wall, zipline and foam pits. Parents also need not worry about catering or party favours, as Gravity does it all for you. The birthday person also receives a voucher for one free bounce session and a special Gravity gift. If your child has a whole bunch of energetic friends, bring them here. Afterwards, lug them all along to Chevy Lane, the coolest 1950s-inspired diner in Bedfordview. With monster milkshakes, gourmet waffles and burgers galore, you'll be the coolest parent of the moment.

Details: Bedford Centre Upper Level, Corner Smith Street & Van Der Linde Road, Bedfordview, Gauteng | 072 052 4781 | [email protected]

Happily Ever Laughter

For an outdoor kid's party, visit Happily Ever Laughter in Bedfordview. The play area here is perfect for toddlers, as moms and dads can easily keep a weary eye from their tables. However, there is ample fun and whimsy to be had for little ones on the funky slides and mini race track. If you want a more formal party, Happily Ever Laughter can organise that too. For an additional cost, they will arrange decor according to your theme, as well as yummy platters for the party goers and parents. The restaurant also hosts casual high tea for mommies and daughters, featuring delectable sandwiches, scones and pastries. So, whatever kind of party you have in mind, let Happily Ever Laughter deliver all that and more.

Details: 24A Riley Rd, Bedfordview, Johannesburg | 011 450 0711 | [email protected]

Kiddilicious

Another Bedfordview haven for overworked moms and dads is Kiddilicious. Offering a wonderful alternative to indoor party venues, Kiddilicious has mostly outdoor seating perfect for small parties. But, if you are in need of a more private area for the little one's birthday celebrations, Kiddilicious also has a separate party venue. This spacious indoor area flows out onto a covered patio and a beautiful, fully shaded garden and play area. You can order a couple of yummy platters to share, as well as mini cakes to sweeten up the occasion. If that wasn't enough to convince you to book this venue, then take a sneak peek at the Kiddilicious Beauty Salon. Hosting pamper parties for groups of up to 12 young ladies, spa packages include welcome mocktails, paraffin manis and pedis, facials and fruity treats to snack on. Book now!

Details: 15 Nicol Road, Bedfordview, Johannesburg | 076 358 6003 | [email protected]

Benoni Monkey and Bird Sanctuary

If your little one and their friends prefer the outdoors and are the animal-loving kind, organise a party at the Benoni Monkey and Bird Park, offering a fun, relaxed environment with an array of birds, bunnies and other exotic wildlife to keep the kids entertained. There is also a separate play area and party venue. You need not worry about catering or any of the other fuss that comes with party planning, as the Benoni Monkey and Bird Park will arrange it all for you. Just sit back and enjoy the fresh air while the kids learn all about interesting animals. This is perfect for small birthday party groups.

Details: 244 Swallow Road, Rynfield AH, Benoni, Gauteng | 082 787 3932 | [email protected]

Trees Eco Fun Park Benoni

Trees Eco Fun Park is a private facility located in Benoni. If all you really need for your child's birthday party is lots of open space, a swimming pool and braai facilities, then this is the venue for you. Ideal for a family get together, Trees Eco Fun Park offers access to all their facilities for only *R250 per spot, which accommodates up to 30 people. Booking is essential as no walks in will be allowed. Pack up the kids, their cozzies, sunscreen and their favourite braai snacks. Birthday cake is welcome too.

Details: 2 Totius Road, Rynfield AH, Benoni, Gauteng | 082 559 8504

Kidzville

Finally, we have Kidzville Party Venues in Kempton Park. With five different themed party venues available according to your child's age, Kidzville is one of the most diverse party venues in the East. Each venue comes complete with a shaded lapa area, braai facilities, separate bathrooms and play areas. Host an Adventure Island, Boot Camp, Farm Fun, Pirate Park or Disco Party for the special birthday person. Kidzville supplies all the cutlery and furniture you need to host a smashing party. It's great for parents on a budget who prefer to supply their own snacks and entertainment. Kiddies are encouraged to dress up according to the theme of the venue, so be sure to specify the dress code on your invitations.

Details: 81 Main Road, Brentwood Park AH, Kempton Park, Gauteng | 083 463 1429 | [email protected]

Do you know of any other awesome kid's party venues in the East of Joburg? Let us know about them!

Remember that our “Top Picks” are not paid for and are compiled at the discretion of the journalist. We only write about what we love.

HomeStuff

HomeStuff - the home decor store you never knew you needed. We came across it by accident doing Christmas shopping at Stoneridge Centre in Edenvale. While it may not scream international home decor on the outside, this massive store is a treasure trove of all your interior decorating dreams. The best thing about HomeStuff? The prices! You can get yourself Jamie Oliver's Creme Brulee Set, sparkling glass tumblers or a quirky egg boiler at a premium price. Needless to say, this was a stellar find on our part during the hectic Christmas season. We were able to find a gift for almost everyone. But, be warned, you may need to stop for a breather half way through your shop, as the variety of home and decor items can be overwhelming.

Kitchen

Just imagine all the cooking and baking tools you have ever wanted. They're all here. That's why you should never take a baker to HomeStuff. Despite the reasonable prices, you will leave having broken the bank on whisks, baking trays, baking beans, mixers and cake stands.

Braai masters, you haven't been forgotten. Turn the art of cooking on the fire into a science with a temperature gauge, stainless steel tongs and the perfect knife set. Toss your Greek salad with a salad spinner or a set of designer spoons.

New to the world of cooking? HomeStuff also has a collection of cookbooks to inspire you. From Thai, to Italian and every cuisine in between, there is a cookbook here to help you on your way. HomeStuff is also the ideal place to get a thoughtful and unique house warming gift. Their range of kettles, pots and pans will add a sense of style to any kitchen. Throw in a French press or tea strainer to make your gift the ultimate house warming package.

Living 

Once you have successfully made your way through the maze of kitchen ware, step into the world of comfortable living. Style your home with classic clocks, designer lighting, fancy mirrors and colourful cushions. There is an entire aisle for photo frames, too. Spruce up your garden or deck with their outdoor decor range. Or, give your bathroom a much-needed makeover - all you need is a few new towels, a handy mirror and pretty soaps (all of which you can get at HomeStuff).

For the bedroom, there are a collection of prints featuring wild animals, iconic pop stars and inspirational quotes. Rugs, pillows and throws add an extra sense of elegance, too. So, pop into HomeStuff (when you have time to spare) and find yourself a few new home comforts.

Dining

Lastly, invest in your bottom drawer with HomeStuff's glassware, plates, knives and tabletop decor. Transform a dull dining area into a glamorous place to share food with friends, family and that special someone. Start off by choosing your tablecloth and runners, then add some place mats, candles and embellishments. Now, for the utensils. HomeStuff stock some of the best cutlery sets from the world's most well renowned brands. These are investments pieces, so they cost a little extra. But, they will last you a long while, making it well worth your hard earned cash.

HomeStuff's dinnerware sets are exquisite. They range in price and style, offering you choice and variety. Make sure you know exactly what you are looking for before entering the store! People have been known to feel light headed with all the options this store offers. You can also get mugs, bowls, ice cream dishes and ramekins in this aisle. Looks like you may never need to go shopping for dining room essentials again.

For more information

Visit their website for more information - homestuff.co.za.

Details: 011 886 8124 | [email protected] | Facebook

Fego Caffé

Fego Caffé is a cosy little café that has several locations in Joburg. All the branches we have been to leave us feeling warm and snug. The little café boasts a hearty feeling of home with "warmth in every cup". Their menu comprises simple, yet delicious, savoury items with a wide variety of cakes and other baked goods like muffins, croissants and even bread and butter pudding - comfort on a plate. Their coffee is simply delicious, whether it's a classic Americano or an over-the top Coconut Mocha Crunch, coconut hot chocolate, chocolate sauce, whipped cream and honeycomb chocolate. The main reason they made it to this list, however, is their yummy Hazelnut Latte, steamed milk, warm espresso, gooey chocolate hazelnut spread with a generous lashing of whipped cream.

Royal Coffee Roasters

Royal Coffee Roasters, previously named Beans About Coffee, is a gem of a coffee shop that just popped up in Edenvale's Stoneridge Shopping Centre one day. And they know their coffee! This charming café is decorated with converted coffee crates and littered with old coffee sacks to create a place that spells c-o-f-f-e-e. Royal Coffee Roasters sells a selection of specially roasted coffee beans from all over the world, as well as every coffee machine ever invented. This includes the Hario Coffee Syphon, which can only be described as a coffee chemistry apparatus. Their food is delicious, their staff friendly, the decor inviting and the coffee irresistible. Their Mocha is, without a doubt, the best we've have ever tasted. It is creamy, warm, chocolately and most importantly — coffeely (is that a word?). Unlike some other drinks, this Mocha tastes like both coffee and chocolate with just enough of each flavour to compliment the other.

Cramers Coffee

Cramers Coffee is an adorable coffee shop in Marshaltown, known for its welcoming ambiance, created by their delicate music selection, quirky decor and smiling staff. Located on a bustling street in Joburg CBD, Cramer's Coffee makes delicious bakes and cakes (the red velvet is definitely a must-try). They have many delicious drinks on their menu, including the Hazelnut Hot Chocolate and sinful Caramel Latte. But the reason we keep coming back is their Gingerbread Latte, deep and rich espresso, frothy seamed milk and a glorious shot of gingerbread syrup. This is the perfect treat for a chilly autumn morning.

Walnut Grove

This coffee shop is tucked away in Sandton City. But don't let the huge mall and all the people put you off. Once inside, you'll feel right at home. Walnut Grove is perhaps most famous for their lustrous cakes. And while we can't disagree with that, we always find ourselves in their comfy seating for their gourmet coffee. All their coffees are wonderfully rich and gorgeous but we are particularly partial to the Bar-one Cappuccino, a luscious and creamy cappuccino made from their house blend of 100% Arabica beans flavoured with one of Joburg's favourite chocolate bars. What's not to love?

Europa

Europa is a café that specializes in delicious Mediterranean fare, from mouth-watering Italian anti-pasti to delectable pastas and everything in between. They have an extensive range of breakfasts, light lunches and amazing desserts (caramel popcorn brownies, anyone?). However, any Italian restaurant should have two things: great coffee and great tiramisu. And Europa has both! They come to you in the form of the most amazing Tiramisu Latte. Just thinking about this is making me drool on my keyboard. Yes, it's that good!

State 5

Last, but certainly not least is State 5. This coffee shop in Greenside and Fourways specialises in cold brewed coffee, which gives the coffee a "refreshing, less acidic, more dark chocolatey" taste with the added benefit of even more caffeine in every magnificent cup of coffee. State 5 has a huge variety of flavoured coffee, from a regular Espresso to the unheard of Mouth Flip, featuring their cold brew coffee, vanilla syrup, cream and wait for it... soda water. They also have a few alcoholic options from the tempting Espresso Martini to the 'I have to try that' Bronx Bomber. This is a mixture of their cold brew coffee, gin, absinthe and vodka. Is that even legal? For those of you who don't mix caffeine and booze, the Caramilizer is a must: cold brewed coffee, salted caramel and milk chocolate. This is definitely yum in a glass.

Fego Caffé

Fego Caffé is a cosy little café that has several locations in Joburg. All the branches I have been to leave me feeling warm and snug. The little café boasts a hearty feeling of home with "warmth in every cup". Their menu comprises simple, yet delicious, savoury items with a wide variety of cakes and other baked goods like muffins, croissants and even bread and butter pudding — comfort on a plate. Their coffee is simply delicious, whether it's a classic Americano or an over-the top Coconut Mocha Crunch — coconut hot chocolate, chocolate sauce, whipped cream and honeycomb chocolate. The main reason they made it to this list, however, is their yummy Hazelnut Latte —steamed milk, warm espresso, gooey chocolate hazelnut spread with a generous lashing of whipped cream.

Royal Coffee Roasters

Royal Coffee Roasters, previously named Beans About Coffee, is a gem of a coffee shop that just popped up in Edenvale's Stoneridge Shopping Centre one day. Royal Coffee Roasters know their coffee! This charming café is decorated with converted coffee crates and littered with old coffee bags to create a place that spells c-o-f-f-e-e. Royal Coffee Roasters sells a selection of specially roasted coffee beans from all over the world, as well as every coffee machine ever invented. This includes the Hario Coffee Syphon, which can only be described as a coffee chemistry apparatus. Their food is delicious, their staff friendly, the decor inviting and the coffee irresistible. Their Mocha is, without a doubt, the best I have ever tasted. It is creamy, warm, chocolately and most importantly — coffeely (is that a word?). Unlike some other places, this Mocha tastes like both coffee and chocolate with just enough of each flavour to compliment the other.

Cramers Coffee

Cramers Coffee is an adorable coffee shop in Marshaltown, known for its welcoming ambiance, created by their delicate music selection, quirky decor and smiling staff. Located on the bustling street of Joburg CBD, Cramer's Coffee make delicious bakes and cakes (the red velvet is definitely a must-try). They have many delicious drinks on their menu, including the Hazelnut Hot Chocolate and sinful Caramel Latte. But the reason we keep coming back is their Gingerbread Latte — deep and rich espresso, frothy seamed milk and a glorious shot of gingerbread syrup. This is the perfect treat for a chilly autumn morning.

Europa

Europa is a café that specializes in delicious Mediterranean fare, from mouth-watering Italian anti-pasti to delectable pastas and everything in between. They have an extensive range of breakfasts and light lunches and amazing desserts (caramel popcorn brownies, anyone?). However, any Italian restaurant should have two things: great coffee and great tiramisu. And Europa has both! They come to you in the form of the most amazing Tiramisu Latte. Just thinking about this is making me drool on my keyboard. Yes, it's that good!

State 5

Last, but certainly not least is State 5. This coffee shop in Greenside and Fourways specialises in cold brewed coffee, which gives the coffee a "refreshing, less acidic, more dark chocolatey" taste with the added benefit of even more caffeine in every magnificent cup of coffee. State 5 has a huge variety of flavoured coffee, from a regular Espresso to the unheard of Mouth Flip, featuring their cold brew coffee, vanilla syrup, cream and wait for it ... soda water. They also have a few alcoholic options — from the tempting Espresso Martini to the 'I have to try that' Bronx Bomber. This is a mixture of their cold brew coffee, gin, absinthe and vodka. Is that even legal? For those of you who don't mix caffeine and booze the Caramilizer is a must: cold brewed coffee, salted caramel and milk chocolate. This is definitely yum in a glass.