Hyde Park Corner brings out the stars for this year’s spectacular Tree Lighting celebration!
The Parlotones, Lira, Yvonne Chaka Chaka, Timothy Moloi, Cristina Azevedo and Bunny Majaja lead a dazzling evening of entertainment, family fun and festive glamour on 19 November.
The festive season wouldn’t be quite the same without Hyde Park Corner’s annual Tree Lighting! For decades, generations of Joburg families have gathered beneath the centre’s magnificent tree, sharing in the excitement of the lights coming on and enjoying an evening of exceptional entertainment. On Thursday, 19 November 2026, this much-loved tradition returns with a star-studded line-up, activities for the little ones.
From 6pm, Centre Court will come alive with music courtesy of The Parlotones, Lira, the legendary Yvonne Chaka Chaka and acclaimed vocalist Timothy Moloi. With the fabulous Bunny Majaja as MC, who will also lend her vocal talents to the evening, audiences can look forward to a terrific show featuring some of South Africa’s best-loved performers.
And, of course, there’s the moment everyone has come to see: Hyde Park Corner’s magnificent tree lighting up in all its glory, officially marking the start of the festive season at one of Johannesburg’s most iconic shopping destinations.
Little ones, big festive fun!
There’s plenty in store for younger visitors too, with a programme of children’s entertainment on the Lower Level from 4pm to 7pm.
Joburg Ballet will be performing, while Santa and his elves will be spreading Christmas cheer. Add stilt walkers, face painters, opportunities for photographs with Santa and a special Krispy Kreme crafts workshop, and the kids will have plenty to keep them entertained before the evening's main event.
And no visit would be complete without a photo with Santa! Families can capture a special Christmas memory free of charge on 19 November from 16h00 to 19h00, and again on 5 and 12 December from 11h00 to 15h00. So, bring the little ones, practise those biggest smiles and get ready to say cheese with the man in red!
The fun carries on into December, with Kids Around hosting a series of Christmas-themed activities at Hyde Park Corner. Little ones can enjoy instant photographs with Santa, write letters to the North Pole, put together festive wish lists and explore creative stations inspired by designer brands from Kids Around.
On 5 December, Kids Around will host a gingerbread-themed celebration, complete with performances by Joburg Ballet in Checkers Court. Another special activation follows on 12 December at Exclusive Books.
All wrapped up for Christmas
The ever-popular Nicholas & Co is back for another season, bringing its wonderful collection of Christmas decorations and seasonal treasures to a new location along the passage near Exclusive Books. It’s a must-visit for anyone looking to add a little something special to their Christmas celebrations.
And with Hyde Park Corner’s beautiful seasonal décor, exceptional stores and inviting restaurants, there’s plenty of reason to make an afternoon or evening of it.
So, gather your family and friends and head to Hyde Park Corner on 19 November for an evening that promises all the music, excitement and sparkle that have made this annual Tree Lighting a Joburg favourite for generations.
Hyde Park Corner Tree Lighting Event Details
Date: Thursday, 19 November 2026
Main event: 6pm
Venue: Centre Court, Hyde Park Corner
Entry: Open to the public
Children's activities: 4pm to 7pm, Lower Level
More festive dates for your diary
- 5 December: Kids Around Gingerbread Celebration and Joburg Ballet, Checkers Court
- 12 December: Kids Around Festive Experience, Exclusive Books
- 19 Nov and 5 & 12 December: Additional Santa photograph opportunities
*Information provided by the publicist.
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