This festive season, as South Africans across the country come together to celebrate their unique traditions, the warmth of family, the joy of making memories, and the simple pleasures of food unite communities, enriching the essence of Christmas.
Each celebration reflects personal stories and shared moments that make this time of year truly special.
In the spirit of togetherness, some of Mzansi’s beloved personalities have shared their cherished traditions and plans for a memorable Christmas.
Moozlie: Esteemed TV personality and musician, Nomuzi ‘Moozlie’ Mabena, expresses her excitement for the festive season, emphasising the warmth of family bonds. “This year’s Christmas is shaping up to be as magical as ever, with an extra sprinkle of love and warmth,” she shares eagerly.
With her sister hosting the family gathering, Mabena plans to decorate while relishing the joy brought by her nieces and nephews. “Celebrating with them makes everything so much more meaningful,” she adds, highlighting the essence of family togetherness.
DJ Sabby: Renowned radio personality DJ Sabby reflects on the positive energy that December brings to South Africa. “It’s a time when family and love take centre stage,” he states. This festive season carries special significance for him; his daughter is set to experience her first Christmas at just six months old. The family has decided to celebrate away from home, marking this festive event as a remarkable season of firsts.
Rozanne McKenzie: Another celebrated radio figure, Rozanne McKenzie, joyfully shares how her husband Chris’s enthusiasm for Christmas amplifies their celebrations. “I always say he puts the ‘Chris’ in Christmas,” she laughs. The Kenzie household comes alive each year on December 1, when their family elf, Junior, makes his grand entrance. This year, their home will be buzzing with family from abroad, including Rozanne’s mother from London. “The kids can’t wait!” she exclaims, encompassing the buzzing excitement typical of the season.
Carol Ofori: Author and radio personality Carol Ofori relates how Christmas is ingrained with family, fun, and culinary delights. With her husband Greg busy curating a sumptuous feast—highlighted by his renowned lamb shanks—the family's festivities kick off early in December. “We have Elf on the Shelf visiting us every year,” she notes, as Christmas Day will be filled with church visits and the delightful aromas emanating from the kitchen, especially with Carol's mother joining, turning their festive celebration into an even grander affair.
Martin Bester: After a bustling year at Jacaranda FM’s 'Breakfast with Martin Bester', Martin finds solace during the festive season in the serenity of the Great Karoo, Eastern Cape. “I get to see my dad, my family, and old friends—it’s a beautiful way to spend Christmas and New Year’s Eve,” he expresses, underscoring the importance of reconnecting with loved ones.
As each personality shares their distinctive Christmas traditions, it becomes clear that the true spirit of the festive season lies in the love, laughter, and togetherness that fills South African homes, making every moment an opportunity to create lasting memories.
The Star