As the festive season approaches, the enchanting Trail of Lights is back, transforming Durban into a summer wonderland filled with lights and laughter.
This year’s event, themed “Celebration”, marks an incredible eight years of breathtaking illumination and joy, all happening in the lush surroundings of Africa's oldest surviving botanic garden, the Durban Botanic Gardens.
The show runs from December 6, 2024 to January 3, 2025, coinciding with the Durban Botanic Gardens' remarkable milestone of 175 years.
Organisers are excited to unveil a slew of new attractions designed to delight visitors of all ages. Among these attractions are an imaginative Santa’s Workshop, a Build-A-Bear Workshop and themed areas which showcase the iconic Whale Tails made by the South African Association of Marine Biology Research (SAAMBR).
These highlights offer a feast for the eyes, providing visitors with photo opportunities and fun that will create cherished memories.
For dog lovers, the popular “Paws and Claus” evenings return this year, inviting guests to bring along their furry friends.
Scheduled for the evenings of December 8 and 12, these events encourage a festive, family-friendly atmosphere where pets can partake in the holiday revelry.
Tickets for the “Paws and Claus” nights are R50 per pet when booked alongside a general ticket, with proceeds benefiting the charitable initiative Feeding the Furballs.
As preparations are already underway, with the technical and lighting teams working diligently to create this vibrant spectacle, families are encouraged to plan their visit to enjoy all the enhanced offerings available this season.
The 2024 event promises entertainment each evening, with live music and festive characters to create an immersive experience throughout the Gardens.
The event will also boast two food gardens with an array of dishes and beverages to satisfy every palate.
After fuelling up, visitors can visit the marketplace which will feature some of Durban’s most talented vendors.
Festive characters and spectacular live “selfie spots” across the Gardens will add to the holiday spirit.
The Trail of Lights is a celebration of community, generosity, and the spirit of the festive season.
This vibrant gathering, filled with glimmering lights and joyful activities, invites everyone to experience the magic of Christmas in an exceptional setting that promises to be unforgettable.
Where: Durban Botanic Gardens.
When: December 6 to January 3, from 6pm to 10pm.
Cost: Tickets cost R70 to R90 and pensioners pay R60. They are available through Webtickets or at select Pick n Pay outlets. Tickets will be also available at the door, subject to availability, at R120.
Flatfoot Access Festival 2024
If you haven’t had the opportunity to partake in the Flatfoot Access Festival, you still have time.
This year's festival celebrates Flatfoot's 21-year history of interacting with people with disabilities through their work in professional development and dance education.
The festival runs until Saturday, December 30 and is offering dance productions along with a host of workshops, panel discussions.
Where: The Stable Theatre.
When: Runs until December 30.
Cost: Tickets are R80 and can be purchased through Computicket. The Stable Theatre is wheelchair-friendly venue.
Steve Newman & Ashish Joshi Live
Steve Newman, a renowned South African guitarist, and Ashish Joshi, a distinguished percussionist and tabla maestro, have come together to create an extraordinary fusion of folk, world music and contemporary sounds in their live concert.
Their performances combine masterful guitar work with the complex rhythms of the tabla, creating a mesmerising auditory experience that transcends musical genres.
Together, they bridge the gap between ancient traditions and modern innovation, captivating audiences with their rich storytelling and unmatched musical synergy.
This duo represents a fusion of years of mastery and a shared passion for pushing musical boundaries.
Where: The Rhumbelow Theatre.
When: Saturday, November 30, at 7.30pm.
Cost: Tickets cost R180 and are available through Webtickets or by emailing [email protected]. Picnic baskets are permitted.