Pretoria is welcoming the festive season with a cheerful line-up of markets, workshops, music and community gatherings from mid-December to early January.

From hands-on crafting and soulful picnics to vintage treasures and festive charity moments, there’s something to bring joy to every family, friend group and holiday mood.

Little Einsteins Theatre Outing

Parents can treat their little ones to a special end-of-year adventure as Little Einsteins hosts a festive outing to the Pretoria Youth Theatre’s production of The Gingerbread Man.

The outing takes place on December 5 at the Irene Village Theatre, where children enrolled in the 2026 programme, including new enrolments, can meet, mingle and make friends ahead of the new school year.

To secure a spot, parents must complete the 2026 application and pay the registration fee by December 1.

Applications can be submitted online, emailed to accounts@highpointrentals.co.za, and confirmed via WhatsApp at 083 647 9093.

Festive Christmas Stocking Workshop

Kickstart your creativity with a festive, beginner-friendly sewing workshop running on December 15, 17 and 20 from 09:00 to 15:00 in Pretoria east.

Perfect for anyone wanting to learn a new skill, the workshop guides participants through threading a sewing machine, cutting fabric, and stitching their own Christmas stocking from start to finish.

All materials are provided, and attendees can choose between weekday sessions at R650 or Saturday sessions at R800.

Space is limited to just five people per class, with bookings confirmed through a non-refundable payment.

Soul Picnic at the Pretoria Zoo

The Pretoria Zoo transforms into a soulful outdoor music haven on December 16 from 10:00 to 18:00 at the Soul Picnic with DJ Young Tbose & Cedric Tsonga Boy.

Visitors can relax under the trees while enjoying sets from top DJs including Tbose from Kaya FM, Cedric Tsonga Boy, RoyalT, Chris Radebe, Owen Phasha and Grant Mudau.

Christmas Teddy Ride

Bikers are invited to spread festive cheer on Christmas Day by joining the annual teddy handover in Pretoria North.

Participants will gather on December 16 at 15:00 at 490 Bakenkloof Street, Wolmer, where riders can personally hand a teddy to a child.

Hazel Food & ACC Extra Christmas Market

For those looking to tick off their Christmas shopping in one stop, the Hazel Food & ACC Market will host an extra festive market on December 16 at Phobians Club in Lynnwood from 08:00 to 14:00.

Shoppers can browse stalls packed with handmade décor, artisanal gifts, bakes, fresh produce, jewellery, toys, plants and festive treats.

It’s a family-friendly outing overflowing with holiday charm.

Vintage & Décor Gift Market

The Grove Mall turns into a vintage wonderland from December 19–22, open daily from 09:00 to 17:00.

Visitors can explore curated stalls featuring antique pieces, collectables, vintage fashion, handcrafted décor, timeless Christmas ornaments and even handmade wooden bicycles.

Live entertainment adds to the warm, nostalgic atmosphere perfect for families looking to shop in festive style.

Moody Meows Cat Café Community Days

Celebrate Christmas with compassion at the Moody Meows Cat Café’s preview days on December 25 at 07:00 and December 26 at 12:00 in Pretoria east.

The soon-to-open café invites the public to get a first glimpse of its cosy Victorian-meets-cottagecore space while supporting its crowdfunding campaign.

Guests can meet rescue cats, enjoy the calm lounge, explore plans for workshops and a kids’ corner, and learn how the initiative aims to support local animal rescue efforts.

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