From family gatherings to unique traditions, South African celebrities share their personal Christmas season plans and what makes this time of year unforgettable.
As the festive season begins, South Africans are looking forward to soaking up the joy of the holidays, reflecting on the past year and making new memories with loved ones.
The countdown to Christmas has begun, celebrating family, tradition, and the magic of the season.
we talked to some people in mzansi Your favorite personalities talk about how they plan to celebrate and what makes this time of year so special for them.
Roseanne McKenzie: Christmas Enthusiast
For Jacaranda FM radio personality Roseanne McKenzie, the Christmas season is a big highlight, thanks in large part to her husband Chris, who is a huge Christmas fan.
“I always say he says ‘Chris’ for Christmas,” Roseanne laughs. Every year, the couple tries their best to make the holiday memorable for their children.
This family tradition begins on December 1st when “Junior,” the family elf, arrives and Christmas decorations begin.
The children look forward to finding their stockings on Christmas morning, and the family opens presents together before Roseanne prepares a delicious Christmas lunch.
This year, the Mackenzie family is even more excited as Roseanne's mother and Chris' parents will be traveling from London to join them in the celebrations. It's sure to be a Christmas at home with the extended family!
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Carol Ofori: Family and Food Feast
For author and radio personality Carol Ofori, Christmas is synonymous with family, food and festive fun. “My husband, Greg, is the chef on Christmas Day, and the whole family looks forward to his menu,” she says.
“I've already ordered the famous lamb shank!'' The Ofori family begins the holiday season in early December with the arrival of Elf on the Shelf.
Christmas morning starts with opening presents, going to church, and then it's time to enjoy Chef Greg's delicious meal.
This year, Carol's mother will also be joining in on the special celebration in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN). “Open the pool, swim, eat, and indulge in ice cream,” she says.
Carol loves spending Christmas at home and enjoying all that KZN has to offer during this magical time of year.
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Martin Bester: Christmas in the Karoo
For Jacaranda FM's Martin Bester, the Christmas season provides a much-needed break after a busy year waking up listeners with his 'Breakfast with Martin Bester' show.
Martin enjoys holidays in the Great Karoo in the Eastern Cape, reuniting with his father, family and old friends.
“It’s a beautiful place to spend Christmas and New Year,” Martin says.
Even during breaks, he can't help but perform, including a special show at his father's pub. “It’s a great way to relax and recharge before the excitement of 2025,” he added.
Nomuzi “Moozlie” Mabena: Family comes first
For MTV personality and musician Nomzi “Moosly” Mabena, Christmas is all about family. This year, her sister and her husband will be hosting their family in their beautiful home and Nomji can't wait to soak up the festive atmosphere.
“Laughter, good food and the joy of being surrounded by loved ones are what make Christmas special,” she says. My sister is in charge of cooking, and Nomuji is in charge of decorating.
But what she's most excited about is spending quality time with her nieces and nephews.
“Celebrating with them makes everything more meaningful,” she added.
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DJ Saby: First season
For Metro FM presenter DJ Saby, the holiday season is a time of reflection, celebration and family bonding. “What I love most about December in South Africa is the positive energy that fills the air,” he says.
This holiday is especially important because this year will be my daughter's first Christmas.
“She's turning six months old and we're all so excited,” says DJ Sabby.
Families choose to spend Christmas away from home, making the season even more memorable.