Christmas in
South Africa
Celebrated: December 25 through December 26 (Day of Goodwill)
Signature traditions
- 1.Summer Christmas, many families head to the beach or have outdoor braais (barbecues)
- 2.Carols by Candlelight events in parks and stadiums on Christmas Eve
- 3.December 26 is the Day of Goodwill, a public holiday for visiting and family gatherings
- 4.Decorating with cotton wool, glitter, and dried flowers in lieu of snow
- 5.Some communities exchange small gifts called 'Christmas boxes' with workers and helpers
What's on the table
Braai, malva pudding, and fruitcake
Christmas lunch is often a braai (barbecue) with boerewors sausage, lamb, and mielie pap. Malva pudding (a warm sponge cake with apricot jam and cream sauce) is a beloved dessert. South African fruitcake (soaked in brandy) is also traditional.
The iconic decoration
Indigenous flora and beach themes
Decorations often incorporate proteas (the national flower), aloes, and beach motifs alongside European Christmas elements. Some homes use blue and white as primary colors instead of red and green.
How gifts are given
Father Christmas delivers gifts overnight on Christmas Eve. Many families also exchange small gifts on December 26.
But who delivers yours?
There are eight cultural Christmas gift-givers around the world — Santa Claus, La Befana, the Yule Lads, Ded Moroz, Sinterklaas, the Three Kings, Christkind, and Joulupukki. Take the 6-question quiz to find out which one matches you.
Take the gift-giver quizDid you know?
Mince pies (called 'Christmas pies' in South Africa) are eaten throughout December, but tradition says you must eat one in 12 different houses during the season for good luck in the year ahead.
