The much-anticipated Joburg Festival of Lights is making a triumphant return, promising to illuminate the Johannesburg Zoo with magical moments that will linger in the hearts of attendees. Scheduled to run from Friday, 1 December to Sunday, 7 January 2024, this annual spectacle, curated by the Joburg Theatre, is set to be a highlight of the December holiday season in Joburg. Xoliswa Nduneni-Ngema, CEO of Joburg City Theatres (JCT), says she’s excited about the show, branding the Festival of Lights as one of the flagship events under the JCT banner. Nduneni-Ngema assures attendees of a curated experience designed to offer a plethora of unforgettable moments.
This year, the Joburg Theatre is proud to unveil an enticing lineup of performances and entertainment for visitors to anticipate.
From enchanting performances by Bongi Archie to the mesmerising Nutcracker by the Youth Russian Ballet Company, and from comedy and DJ Nights to soulful performances by The Soil, the festival promises a diverse range of entertainment for all tastes.
Other noteworthy acts include the Art of Dance, Soweto Spiritual Singers, Tribhangi Dance Company, iComplete, Tamara Dey with the dynamic Mzansi Gay Choir, DaFunc, and many more.
The festival aims to create an atmosphere of joy, laughter, and groovy beats under the starlit sky.
Beyond the captivating performances, attendees will be treated to larger-than-life, illuminating animal characters strategically placed along a designated route within the Joburg Zoo.
A magical journey awaits, with a magical picnic tree offering a fairy forest ambiance, inviting visitors to relax underneath its enchanting branches.
Expect to be awestruck by massive lion, reindeer, and nutcracker sculptures that will glow and shimmer, adding a touch of magic to the surroundings.
The real surprise lies in brand new sculptures that will undoubtedly take everyone’s breath away, introducing an extra layer of wonder and amazement to the festival.
Nduneni-Ngema notes that the festival is inclusive and will ensure families of all ages can revel in a diverse range of activities.
“While the enchanting display of life-size illuminated animal characters and live entertainment takes centre stage, we have ensured that families of all ages can enjoy a diverse range of activities,” she says.
From kids’ rides and mascot entertainment to a Beer and Gin Garden, the Tree of Light picnic, and, of course, the illuminated life-size animal characters, there’s something for everyone.
She thanks partners such as Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo and City Power for their unwavering support since the inception of the festival.
Jenny Moodley, spokesperson at Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo, expresses delight in collaborating with Joburg City Theatres, highlighting the Festival of Lights as a testament to the power of collaboration.
“We are delighted to partner with Joburg City Theatres for the annual Joburg Festival of Lights, a spectacular event that promises to enchant audiences of all ages. We are thrilled to be a part of this unforgettable celebration alongside our partners,” Moodley adds.
Visitors are encouraged to bring their picnic blankets and camping chairs (note: alcohol is strictly prohibited).
Various food stalls, including the Stages restaurant, will cater to diverse culinary preferences.
Ticket prices range from R175 for adults, R100 for pensioners, and R75 for children aged 3 to 12 years, with package discounts available.
Children under 3 can enter for free, and tickets are conveniently available on www.joburgtheatre.com.
“Don’t miss this magical event that promises to ignite the holiday spirit and create lasting memories for all. Join us at the Joburg Festival of Lights for an unforgettable celebration,” Nduneni-Ngema enthuses.
The Joburg Festival of Lights 2023 is poised to be a dazzling celebration that captures the essence of the holiday season, leaving attendees with cherished memories to carry into the New Year.
