Make Your Festive Memories in the Neighbourhood Where Possibilities Take Flight

We do Christmas our way, the African way, embracing the bright summer sun and highlighting the joy, creativity and imagination of our people. And it’s all about joy – joy from Africa – to the world!

This year our Joy from Africa to the World campaign celebrates hope and boundless possibilities. We’ve transformed our neighbourhood into a magical festive world of art

and craft, and most importantly, storytelling. We have chosen to hone in on literacy over the festive season, because we know that reading stories – those wonderful tales that are full of imagination – can open up magical worlds in our minds, worlds where all things become possible. And we’d like to inspire you in this way…

We’ve set the stage for your imagination to unfold. All that’s missing is you!

When you’re visiting us, you’ll see a large-scale hot-air balloon on site, as well as colourful patterned illustrations of this symbol. It invites you to float away on a magical ride. It represents flights of fancy and imagination, which fuel our creativity. You’ll spot this perfect icon of the spirit of joy throughout the neighbourhood.

The brilliant giant hot-air balloon floating above the Victoria Wharf Shopping Centre marks the Waterfront World of Possibilities. Among many eye-catching spots here, and throughout the neighbourhood, are the literacy-focused wonderland in the Centre Court (next to H&M) to inspire young minds, while we celebrate budding artists with our giant Christmas tree decorated with self-portraits of school learners from the community. Whether you’re a child or an adult, you’ll love our magical holiday story as it unfolds for you.

We commissioned artists, makers, crafters and illustrators, as well as non-profit organisations, including those from disadvantaged or disabled communities, to lend us their hands in creating a festive paradise for you to enjoy. Among the beautiful and captivating installations on offer are the artistic renderings of Zee Feels, Agrippa Hlophe, Kyle Kemink and Phila Hillie, the colourful handweaving of Ashanti Design, and the gorgeous beadwork of MonkeyBiz. We’ve created a special Magic Map that details everyone involved. Find out more here.

Our neighbourhood is alive with fun for the whole family, with exciting events and family-friendly initiatives to take us into the new year. Don’t miss our live entertainment events, like Take the Stage, with free pop-up performances by emerging South African musicians, and the College of Magic’s jaw-dropping illusion show. The Kids Market is back, and there’s the unmissable HintHunt festive route. And, of course, Santa will be making his annual appearance.

CLICK HERE for the full festive events line-up.

Our festive competition offers opportunities to win daily prizes – and the chance to walk away with the ultimate prize valued at R100 000, including a Smeg Retro fridge and other amazing items.

To stand a chance to win: 

1. Spend R250 or more at any shop or eatery.
2. Drop your receipt in any entry box.
3. Cross your fingers! 

The promotion runs until 30 December 2022. Ts & Cs apply.

We want you to have all the time you need to cross off everything on your shopping list. That’s why we’ve extended our shopping hours. From 15 to 30 December 2022 (excluding 24 and 25 December 2022), the Victoria Wharf Shopping Centre will be open each day from 09h00 to 22h00.

Remember to use our gift-wrapping service with themed Joy from Africa to the World gift wrap – not only will your presents look irresistible, but you’ll also be brightening up someone else’s festive season, with all proceeds going to the Homestead Project for Street Children.

#JoyFromAfrica #V&AFestiveJoy