As the classic song goes, the festive season truly is “the most wonderful time of the year”. There’s something enchanting about the presence of bright neon lights, the singing of carols and the throngs of shoppers bustling about looking for gifts.
And after a tough 2020, we could all benefit from the whimsical delights that the festive season offers as an invaluable pick-me-up that will lift our spirits and improve our mood. Throughout South Africa, there are a host of fun activities that you and your family can enjoy this December to get into the swing of the festive season and make it extra special.
Local markets are the perfect place to get into the festive spirits. As most markets are outdoors, they are more Covid-compliant and also give you the chance to sample local culinary delights, support local crafters and meet the people who are making your festive gifts and food. These are a few of the best markets to enjoy around South Africa.
Markets in Gauteng
Located at the Michael Mount Waldorf School in Bryanston, Johannesburg, this market will take place from Tuesday 15 December to Friday 18 December from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. This market is renowned for its moonlight markets and has incorporated appropriate Covid-19 guidelines to ensure that everyone can be safe and still experience a festive atmosphere. For only R10 per person, including children from 4 years of age, the whole family can enjoy an experience full of festive joy, excitement and wonder.
Located at the trendy Melrose Arch in Melrose North, Johannesburg, this market will take place from Wednesday, 2 December to Sunday 5 December 2020 from 15:00 to 21:00. Entrance to the market is free and you can enjoy glittering festive décor, specially handcrafted goods, multi-purpose clothing and numerous options to buy festive gifts. Beyond the chance to do some outdoor festive shopping, you can grab a bite at one of the trendy food spots on-site while you enjoy the dazzling Christmas light display twinkling on the High Street.
Situated in the east of Pretoria on a magnificent piece of land, this fairly large market has over 300 exhibitors that only sell handmade items, It will run from 25 November to 6 December 2020 from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. with over 150 exhibitions, from homemade to exclusive home decor products. Supporting this market is also good for the greater good, as it is the largest fundraising project and annual job creation event for the Kungwini Welfare Organisation, which provides critical services for 160 disabled adults.
Markets in North West
Rainhill Farm Christmas Market (Rustenburg)
This annual market is nestled at the foot of the imperious Magaliesburg, providing gorgeous mountain views. Hosted on the first Sunday every December, you can expect to find on the picturesque bluegum lane a range of crafters selling homemade and handmade goods. The kiddies will also delight in the farmyard activities that are available, while you also have the opportunity for spiritual renewal and reflection at the chapel and labyrinth.
Markets in KwaZulu-Natal
Shongweni Farmers’ Christmas Market (Gillitts)
Established by the Standeaven family in 1998, this diverse market produces a range of products and services, including crafts, fresh produce, ready-made foods, furniture, decor items, outdoor goods, pet products, jewellery and nursery products. Open every Saturday from 6:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m, you can expect a safe and friendly environment, professional management and dedicated kids zones.
Markets in the Western Cape
The Slowmarket in Willowbridge lifestyle Centre in Tygervalley is a staple in Cape Town and its surrounding areas. Open every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m and every Sunday from 9 a.m. to 2.pm, this urban market offers a variety of small local producers providing boutique gifts, artisan foods, street foods and local design. The market pulls out all the stops for Christmas, with the market operating by candlelight and accompanied by carol singers.
Enjoy these fabulous markets and have a great festive season and a Happy New Year. If you’re looking to sell your home in the new year, you can keep the festive cheer going by getting 25% Cash Back on our fee when you sell and buy a property with Leadhome.
