SOUTH Africa’s largest festive attraction, the Durban Botanic Gardens Trail of Lights, is set to return for its ninth consecutive year, promising a much brighter, more immersive, and magical experience for all.

The historic gardens in Durban will be transformed into a glittering wonderland of entertainment and festive cheer from December 5 to 7, December 10 to 24, December 26 to 30, and January 1 to 3, 2026, opening to visitors from 18:00 to 22:00.

Organisers have confirmed that this year’s Trail of Lights will unveil an expanded route featuring brand-new themed displays and a series of festive surprises. The popular light tunnels, character encounters, and illuminated garden pathways will be complemented by new interactive zones designed to enhance the guest experience.

One of the key additions is the newly opened Tropical Display House, which showcases rare and exotic plants illuminated for the festive season. The Trail also introduces an exclusive Santa’s Workshop in partnership with Toy Kingdom and Build-A-Bear, offering visitors the chance to create personalised furry companions as treasured holiday keepsakes.

Other new attractions include Toy Kingdom’s X-Shot Tunnels, an engaging play zone featuring well-known toy brands, and a Virtual Reality activation offering holiday-themed VR experiences. A dedicated Polar Express Zone will bring a winter wonderland to Durban, complete with a life-sized polar bear for family photos.

Alongside its new offerings, the Trail of Light returns with many of its classic attractions.

Visitors can enjoy:

Two Food Gardens serving festive favourites and gourmet dishes

Live evening entertainment

The Ms Claus Craft Café for children

Santa’s Grotto, hosting the iconic holiday figure

Zipline adventures through century-old trees

Santa’s Workshop, offering toy-building and holiday shopping opportunities.

To be part of the magical experience tickets are priced between R85 and R95 per person, with special rates available for pensioners and groups. Tickets can be purchased online via Webtickets, or at Pick n Pay and Boxer stores nationwide. Limited tickets will be available at the gate for R120 per person, subject to availability. Children aged two years and under may enter free of charge.

Caxton Local Media is also offering you a chance to walk the Trail of Lights and to immerse yourself in the magic by entering the competition below. By entering your name and contact details, you stand a chance of winning double tickets redeemable December 10 to 24, December 26 to 30, or January 1 to 3, 2026.

Competition closes Wednesday, December 3.

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