Nelson Mandela Square is elevating the holiday spirit this December with a sophisticated new experience, Celebrations on the Square. Designed for refined seasonal enjoyment, this event invites guests to sip, shop, and spoil themselves in an environment unlike any other.

Celebrations on the Square: A Luxurious Seasonal Escape

Running from 12 to 22 December between 4 pm and 9 pm, this exclusive event welcomes guests into a custom-crafted glass marquee designed for leisurely indulgence.

For an entry fee of R75, visitors can enjoy a glass of Laurent-Perrier champagne alongside a sumptuous charcuterie board while soaking in the season’s splendour.

Access to this intimate meander, filled with Instagrammable moments, is limited to 200 visitors per day, ensuring a truly exclusive atmosphere.

Refined Ambience and Décor

An impressive archway, framed by luxury lifestyle nutcrackers, greets guests and leads them into a space adorned with a statement ceiling installation and elegant décor.

Throughout the venue, soft Christmas touches anchor comfortable lounge pockets and cocktail tables, which together create a relaxed flow for those wishing to pause with a drink or snack beneath the Square’s signature sparkling lights.

To further enhance the festive atmosphere, a violinist will perform daily from 6 pm to 8 pm, providing a melodic backdrop that adds an extra layer of magic to the evening.

Boutique Gifting at Celebrations on the Square

Inside the marquee, a curated array of local vendors offers thoughtful gifting options and artisanal treats, ensuring that every visitor finds something special. For example, Babylonstoren brings a rich farm experience to the heart of Sandton, featuring produce, hampers, and lifestyle goods from their historic Franschhoek Valley farm.

Meanwhile, visitors can browse boutique floral arrangements by Veldmeisie, handcrafted confectionery from Oooh La La, bespoke glass décor by Casa LV, and imported Italian pieces from Le Perline, allowing for a uniquely varied shopping experience.

At the same time, culinary enthusiasts will appreciate the selection of local cookbooks from tastemakers like Naqiyah Mayat and Angie Durrant, which makes gifting for foodies simpler and more delightful.

Lemoni Food Studio will retail their festive favourites, while a traditional Panettone merchant and Matcha Pod ensure the treats keep flowing. Additionally, the Laurent-Perrier champagne lounge offers tastings, collection purchases, and personalisable luggage tags as unique keepsakes.

‘Celebrations on the Square has been crafted to feel intimate, polished and adorned with seasonal flair. The team set out to create a festive experience that invites people to slow down, sip something special and enjoy the beauty of the Square during this time of year and we can’t wait to welcome visitors into this carefully considered space.’

~ Charis Claasen, Asset Manager of Nelson Mandela Square

Visit Nelson Mandela Square

Beyond the marquee, recent openings such as Gelato Mania and the Standard Bank Art Lab gallery add to the destination’s vibrant appeal. For more information on stores, shopping hours, and events, visit the website or follow @NelsonMandelaSquare on social media.

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