WeeklySA_AdminFESTIVE: Lira, Yvonne Chaka Chaka and The Parlotones headline annual Johannesburg tree-lighting celebration, with ballet, children’s activities and festive attractions adding to the occasion…
By WSAM Reporter
Hyde Park Corner will usher in the festive season with an evening of live music and family entertainment at its annual tree-lighting celebration on November 19.
The Parlotones, Lira, Yvonne Chaka Chaka and Timothy Moloi will perform at the Johannesburg shopping centre’s Centre Court from 18h00. Broadcaster and singer Bunny Majaja will host the event and contribute to the musical programme.
A longstanding fixture on the centre’s festive calendar, the celebration brings families together for performances culminating in the switching on of the Christmas tree lights. The event is open to the public.
Younger visitors can get an early start, with children’s entertainment on the Lower Level from 16h00 to 19h00. The programme includes performances by Joburg Ballet, appearances by Santa and his elves, stilt walkers, face painting and a Krispy Kreme crafts workshop.
Families will also be able to have photographs taken with Santa free of charge during those hours. Further free Santa photograph sessions are scheduled for December 5 and 12, from 11h00 to 15h00.
Festive touches
The tree-lighting evening also marks the opening of the Moët & Chandon Bow Atelier pop-up, which will welcome its first visitors from approximately 19h00.
Full trading begins on November 20 and continues until December 20. The pop-up offers shoppers the opportunity to personalise bottles of Moët & Chandon as festive gifts.
Meanwhile, seasonal retailer Nicholas & Co returns with Christmas decorations and gifts at a new location in the passage near Exclusive Books.
December dates
The festivities continue in December with Christmas-themed activities hosted by children’s retailer Kids Around.
Young visitors can enjoy instant photographs with Santa, write letters to the North Pole, compile festive wish lists and take part in creative activities inspired by brands stocked by the retailer.
On December 5, a gingerbread-themed celebration will include performances by Joburg Ballet in Checkers Court. A further Kids Around festive experience will take place at Exclusive Books on December 12.
The November 19 tree-lighting celebration takes place at Centre Court, Hyde Park Corner, with the main entertainment starting at 18h00 and children’s activities running from 16h00 to 19h00 on the Lower Level.
