IF you think the Gateway Theatre of Shopping is all about retail therapy, think again. A whole world of exciting activities is waiting to be explored beyond the stores.

Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a food lover, or just in the mood to have fun, Gateway has something for everyone. So, put down those shopping bags and discover the hidden gems that make this place more than just a mall – it’s a full-on entertainment experience.

We’ve picked a few to get you started.

1. LEGO® Fun at Gateway: Gift the Superpower of Play is a spectacular, specially built holiday fun zone, where kids can unleash their creativity and have fun. With 13 different zones, there’s something for every age – from the tots to the teens and adults, too. A 45-minute session costs just R25 and includes access to Duplo, themed builds, the popular LEGO® Botanicals and so much more. The activation is open from December 6 to January 6.

2. Play Padel at Virgin Active’s Padel Club: Have fun, get fit and socialise as you play a game of padel. Did you know that access to the Virgin Active Padel Club at Gateway, near the old Wavehouse site, is not restricted to members only? You can hire equipment from the club and book courts by the hour. For more information about the club, visit https://gatewayworld.co.za/store/virgin-active-padel-club/

3. Pose for pics with Santa, or each other! Get to meet the jolly, red-suited Santa Claus at Gateway daily from December 14–24. Find Santa close to Steve Madden, and snap a photo with him. Gateway has decked the mall with spectacular décor, bringing with it festive sparkle, taking on a black, gold and iridescent theme this year. Giant, sparkling displays are in the Palm Court, Fountain Court, and on the Cinema Level and make for picture-perfect backdrops.

Also read: Aweh! Find out what’s happening in Durbs (Christmas markets edition)

4. Indy Kart at Gateway: For an outdoor adrenaline rush, karting is the way to go, and you can race a Sodi SR 4 270cc Kart on the free-flowing rooftop track. There’s enough space to overtake and for the newbies to learn, too. From clocking the fastest lap time to crossing that checkered flag first, find the adrenaline and fun on the external decking area.

5. Gifting – shop and wrap: With more than 380 stores to choose from, Gateway has literally got gifting covered. From fashion to beauty, tech and toys, you’re guaranteed to find those perfect gifts. Then head to the Gifting Concierge to get almost every gift bought at the mall beautifully wrapped, with a small donation to Reach for a Dream.

6. Tactical Action Gaming (TAG) Arena: A massive warehouse vibe lets kids (and adults) outsmart one another in tactical AirSoft combat games. It is a challenging indoor terrain, with a target-shooting option adding to the competitive fun. Located at Parkade G (on the P5 parking level).

7. Be.UP at Gateway. You might know Be.UP for its jumping trampolines, but there’s so much more. There are also climbing walls and a maze to suit kids of varying ages and abilities – giving everyone a chance to play.

8. Lighthouse & Ocean Play is the creative play area outside in the Palm Court that includes a ‘slide-down’ replica of the iconic Umhlanga Rocks lighthouse (that turned 70 this year), as well as a hammerhead shark and tuna fish, which function as jungle gyms.

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