The wait is over. For the ninth-year running, South Africa's largest festive event, the Durban Botanic Gardens Trail of Lights (Trail of Lights), in partnership with East Coast Radio, returns with the aim of hosting a dazzling display of festive cheer, enchanting experiences and unforgettable family moments, says the duo.

With festive characters, sparkling photo opportunities and magical activations around every corner, this year hopes to be the most exciting edition yet, adds the duo.

This year, the city's holiday tradition lights up the Durban Botanic Gardens each evening from 18:00 to 22:00 on: 

  • 5 to 7 December.
  • 10 to 24 December.
  • 26 to 30 December.
  • 1 to 3 January 2026.

The duo invites people to step into a world of wonder as "The Trail" unveils an extended route, brand-new themed displays and festive surprises at every turn. From light tunnels to character encounters, the gardens aim to transform into a breathtaking wonderland that sparks joy and nostalgia for the whole family, says the duo.

What To Look Forward to in 2025

  • Two Food Gardens — serving festive favourites and gourmet treats.
  • Live Entertainment — every evening to set the festive mood.
  • Ms Claus Craft Café — where children can make magical keepsakes.
  • Santa's Grotto — a chance for children to meet the Santa himself.
  • Zipline Adventures — visiting the Gardens' 100-year-old trees.
  • Santa's Workshop — where kids can create their own "cuddly friend" to take home or parents can shop for stocking fillers.

What's New:

The newly opened Tropical Display House

Discover an array of rare and exotic plants, illuminated to add an extra layer of magic to the Trail, says the duo.

Exclusive Santa's Workshop

In partnership with Toy Kingdom and Build-A-Bear, visitors have the chance to enjoy an experience filled with fun and creativity. At the Build-A-Bear pop-up, guests can create and personalise their own "furry friend", making for a festive keepsake, adds the duo.

Toy Kingdom's X-Shot Tunnels

An interactive play zone for kids to test their skills and enjoy safe, active fun. The pop-up store features popular brands such as LEGO, Barbie, X-Shot, Hot Wheels and more, says the duo.

Virtual Reality Activation

For the first time, the Trail will include holiday-themed virtual reality content and family-friendly experiences, adds the duo.

Polar Express Zone

Step into a winter wonderland and meet a life-sized polar bear for a special photo opportunity. This stop aims to perfectly captures the spirit of Christmas for families, says the duo.

Charity Initiatives:

Adopt-a-River

Participate in the "Tree of Love and Life" by making a donation and adding a personal message on a heart to the tree. There is also an image gallery highlighting river and ocean conservation efforts, face painting, temporary tattoos and a life-size mural activity where visitors can contribute their own artistic touch, says the duo.

Project Rhino

People are encouraged to visit the interactive display featuring an orphanage of baby rhinos and pledge support for rhino conservation by signing their name. An adult rhino will also be on display, carrying its own message along the trail, adds the duo.

SAAMBR (South African Association for Marine Biological Research)

View the special whale tail display and learn more about marine conservation efforts, says the duo.

Paws ‘n Claus Evening

On Wednesday, 10 December, people are encouraged to bring their pets and help raise funds for the Feeding the Furballs charity. Tickets are R60 per dog.

Paws 'n Claus Ticket Information:

  • From R85 to R95 per person (special rates available for pensioners and group bookings).
  • Paws 'n Claus Evening (10 December) — R50 per pet entering with a ticketed owner.
  • Available online at Webtickets, or at Pick n Pay and Boxer stores nationwide.
  • Tickets at the door are R120 per person and subject to availability.
  • Children 2 years and under, enter free.

For more information, visit www.durbanbotanicgardens.org.za. You can also follow Durban Botanic Gardens on Facebook, Instagram, or on TikTok.

*Image courtesy of contributor