Gateway Theatre of Shopping, KwaZulu-Natal’s premiere shopping and entertainment destination, is gearing up for a spectacular festive season, offering visitors an experience filled with joy, creativity, and fun experiences. Throughout December, shoppers can enjoy an enthralling LEGO® activation, magical festive décor photo opportunities, interactive family fun activities, extended trading hours, live musical performances, photographs with Santa and exciting new stores, all designed to make this holiday season a truly memorable one for everyone.
LEGO® Gift the superpower of play activation
A key highlight this festive season will be the mall’s LEGO® Gift the superpower of play holiday activation in the mall, running from 6 December 2024 to 6 January 2025, with a break on 25 December and 1 January. This enthralling experience will offerLEGO® fans of all ages a thrilling journey through no less than thirteen interactive zones.
After checking in and receiving an event activity booklet, visitors will get to explore Santa’s LEGO® workshop, which includes a simulated winter scene and an introductory video, before continuing on a quest for hidden treasures in the search for Santa’s surprises. Additional fun includes building paths to guide lost elves, designing vehicles in the Christmas Express, and creating festive ornaments to decorate a LEGO® Christmas tree. Younger children will enjoy the pre-school LEGO® DUPLO® area, while adults will find inspiration in the Botanical Zone, featuring a stunning range of fauna and floral inspired LEGO® sets. Participants will also stand a chance to win exclusive LEGO® sets and merchandise, adding to the excitement.
Tickets for the LEGO® Gift the superpower of play activation will be available from 5 December on Webtickets or at the venue from 6 December, priced at R25 per person (for a 45-minutes session) for both adults and children. Only card payments will be accepted, and each child attending (under the age of 12 years) must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Give the gift of a dream come true
This festive season also presents an opportunity to give back, through Gateway’s collaboration with Reach for a Dream. From 18 November to 24 December, this remarkable organisation will take over the mall’s gifting concierge service, wrapping gifts in exchange for donations. Every contribution will help make the dreams of children with life-threatening illnesses come true, continuing the legacy of last year’s campaign, which raised over R300,000. Gateway aims to surpass that milestone in 2024, encouraging everyone to support the cause.
The centre will once again be collaborating with Disney to host the popular Chari-Tree in aid of Reach for a Dream. Find the remarkable Disney tree beautifully decorated with dozens of Disney character plush toys in the food court, where a promotional poster will provide the details on how you can make a difference this holiday.
Live entertainment and endless shopping
Visitors will also get to enjoy live music performances over the holidays at Palm Court, where local musicians and DJs will set the tone for relaxed afternoons. Performances will take place from 1 pm to 4 pm, offering the perfect opportunity to unwind with a meal and enjoy a lively atmosphere.
Adding to Gateway’s impressive bouquet of over 380 top local and international stores, the luxury fragrance brand Jo Malone London has recently opened its first store in KwaZulu-Natal, offering highly sought-after gifting options.
Gateway will extend its trading hours from 11 December 2024 to 5 January 2025, allowing shoppers more time to explore the mall, find the perfect gifts, and enjoy all the holiday activities. Whether visitors are on the hunt for last-minute presents or simply soaking in the festive cheer, the extended hours will ensure everyone can make the most of the season.
Of course, no holiday is complete without a photograph with Santa. He will be visiting the centre from the 14 – 24 December, and be available for photographs daily between 10am – 4pm in the Steve Madden court. Ensure your phone is ready to capture the perfect picture!
Throughout the holiday, Gateway will be transformed with festive décor from 22 November 2024 to 6 January 2025. Shoppers will be treated to captivating displays throughout the mall, including a giant teddy bear, an enormous cone-shaped Christmas tree, and twinkling lights that provide memorable photo opportunities.
Feel the magic of the holidays at Gateway this December, where each moment promises joy, excitement, and lasting memories for the whole family.
For further information and updates on the centre’s festive season activities, musical performance times and more, or go to the website https://gatewayworld.co.za/ or follow Gateway on social media: https://www.instagram.com/gatewayumhlanga/
Gateway festive season trading hours:
- 11 – 15 December 9am – 9pm
- 16 – 23 December 9am – 10pm
- 24 December 9am – 8pm
- 25 December Voluntary trade
- 26 – 29 December 9am – 9pm
- 30 – 31 December 9am – 8pm
- 1 January Voluntary trade
- 2 – 5 January 9am – 8pm
- 6 January Normal trading resumes
