Picture: Supplied
Gauteng’s premier entertainment destination, Montecasino, isgearing up for an incredible festive season. With a dazzling lineup of activities, events, and attractions, Montecasino promises to deliver joy, wonder, and entertainment for the whole family. From spectacular light displays and vibrant markets to world-class shows and luxurious accommodations, Montecasino offers a one-of-a-kind experience this festive season.
A Magical Italian Village of Lights
Montecasino’s iconic Italian-inspired architecture will shine brighter than ever this festive season with the Magical Italian Village of Lights. This year, the display is bigger and better, featuring almost 500,000 LED lights, a significant increase from last year’s 285,300 lights. Adding to the holiday spirit, the setup includes two grand centrepiece displays alongside over 20 newly added selfie displays, such as festive backdrops, traditional trees, and walk-through installations. Highlights include a stunning walk-through at the main entrance on L4 and two additional walk-through attractions, perfect for creating magical holiday memories. It’s taken a dedicated local team six months to design and manufacture these dazzling installations, ensuring the festive season at Montecasino is an unforgettable experience for visitors.
Shop Unique Gifts at the Festive Market
From December 16 to 23, Montecasino’s Festive Market will bring together artisanal traders offering a curated selection of unique holiday gifts. Held in Montecasino’s Ballroom, the market will be a treasure trove of handcrafted items, festive foods, premium beverages, and personalised keepsakes. It’s the perfect spot to find thoughtful gifts while indulging in the festive spirit. Open from 12 PM to 9 PM daily, it’s a holiday shopping experience unlike any other.
A Spectacular Array of Shows and Events
Montecasino’s theatres are the heart of holiday entertainment this season, showcasing productions for all tastes:
- Disney’s The Magic Box: From 22 November – 5 January, audiences journey with Mara through timeless Disney songs and tales in a vibrant stage performance that celebrates Disney magic.
- A Christmas Carol: Running from November 27, this heartwarming adaptation of Charles Dickens’s classic tale returns for a sixth year to the Pieter Toerien main stage at Montecasino from 27 November – 8 December.
- The ABBA Show: A Cinderella Story: From December 26 to January 19, this production by the Mzansi Ballet blends the timeless music of ABBA with the enchanting tale of Cinderella.
- Deep In The City Festival: On December 15, Black Coffee and Themba curate an open-air celebration of South Africa’s best deep house music, paired with gourmet street food.
Watch Festive Blockbusters Movies@ Montecasino
Montecasino’s cinema, home to the biggest screen in Africa and rated Johannesburg’s best, will screen a slate of blockbuster films perfect for the festive season. Titles like Gladiator II, Moana 2, Wicked, Nico Saves Christmas and Mufasa offer something for everyone. Open seven days a week, it’s the ultimate spot for movie lovers.
Indulge in Festive Feasting
Take a break from cooking and enjoy the culinary delights of Montecasino’s 30+ restaurants and bars. With options ranging from authentic Italian cuisine and Portuguese peri-peri specialties to contemporary grills and Indian delicacies, there’s something for every palate. The complex offers everything from fast food to casual dining options and sophisticated bars, providing the perfect settings no matter what you’re in the mood for.
Discover the Bird Gardens
The Montecasino Bird Gardens offer an educational escape for nature lovers, showcasing over 60 species of birds, reptiles, and small mammals. Open daily during the holidays, the gardens provide a serene environment for exploration, complemented by the popular Flamingo Café overlooking the Flamingo Pond.
A Gaming Experience Like No Other
Montecasino’s gaming floor is buzzing this festive season with a jam-packed schedule of promotions running from 4 December to the end of January. Over R4 million in cash, prizes, and rewards are up for grabs in just 60 days. Players can expect points multipliers, instant bonus jackpots with ripple effects, weekly progressive draws, and instant rewards—all designed to add extra excitement to the gaming experience. These promotions are exclusive to Rewards cardholders, so if you’re not a member yet, now is the perfect time to sign up at the Guest Relations Desk. Membership is free; all you need is a valid ID or driver’s license. Please note, gaming is for individuals aged 18 and older.
The Ultimate Stay-Cation
For those seeking a holiday without leaving Gauteng, Montecasino’s four hotels offer a luxurious escape just steps away from the entertainment hub. Whether at the opulent Palazzo Hotel, the luxurious Pivot Hotel, the modern Piazza Hotel or the cozy Hotel Perte, each property provides unparalleled comfort and convenience.
“Montecasino embodies the essence of la dolce vita this festive season,” Mike Page, Director of Operations and Complex General Manager at Montecasino says. “From the Village of Lights and vibrant festive market to delicious dining and world-class entertainment, we’ve created an experience that transports you straight to the heart of Italy. Our team has worked passionately to create an experience that feels like a holiday in the heart of Europe, ensuring memories that will last a lifetime.”
With an abundance of holiday activities, Montecasino establishes itself as Gauteng’s ultimate festive destination. Offering a unique mix of holiday magic, exceptional dining, world-class entertainment, and luxurious accommodations, it’s the perfect place to celebrate the festive season in style.
Also see: Turn your home into a Christmas wonderland with these aromas
