There’s something about the festive season that calls for shared moments — the kind that stay with you long after the holidays end. This summer, Ster-Kinekor is inviting South Africans to rediscover one of the most powerful shared experiences of all: the magic of the movies.
After a long and demanding year, the holiday break offers a welcome pause — time to reconnect with family and friends, to laugh together, feel together, and escape into stories that unfold on the big screen. From the moment the lights dim and the first scene flickers to life, cinema has a way of bringing people together like nothing else.
And this festive season, Ster-Kinekor is delivering a full-scale cinematic celebration — packed with colour, emotion, nostalgia and unforgettable movie moments.
A Summer of Fun on the Big Screen
Families, and especially younger viewers, can look forward to an exciting holiday line-up filled with imagination, adventure and laughter. Five fantasy-packed titles are set to keep kids entertained throughout the long summer break.
Already lighting up screens is Zootropolis 2, where fan favourites Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde return after cracking the biggest case in Zootopia’s history — only to discover their partnership is put to the test when they’re ordered to attend a “Partners in Crisis” counselling programme.
Animal antics continue with Pets on a Train, now showing, where a group of unsuspecting pets find themselves on a runaway journey orchestrated by a grudge-holding badger named Hans.
From 19 December, audiences are taken on a powerful musical journey with David, the story of a shepherd boy called to stand against fear, corruption and a giant enemy. Set against sweeping landscapes and stirring music, the film delivers an epic tale of courage, faith and the unexpected strength found in trust.
On 26 December, one of animation’s most beloved characters returns in The SpongeBob Movie: The Search for SquarePants, as SpongeBob ventures into the depths of the ocean to face the ghost of the Flying Dutchman.
Adding to the excitement, SpongeBob and friends will be hitting the road on a special costume tour, visiting select Ster-Kinekor cinemas including Tygervalley and V&A Waterfront in Cape Town, Mall of Africa and Eastgate in Johannesburg, and The Grove in Tshwane, from 26 December to 11 January.
The fun continues into the new year with Tom & Jerry: Forbidden Campus, releasing on 2 January, where the iconic cat-and-mouse duo embark on a time-travelling adventure that leads to a high-stakes showdown with mysterious forces.
A Cinema Experience Just for Kids
For younger moviegoers, Ster-Kinekor’s Kids’ Cinema takes the big-screen experience to another level. Designed with children in mind, these colourful spaces feature their own dedicated foyer areas with activity tables, catering counters, beanbag seating (with larger seats at the back), and even slides and ball pools.
Kids’ Cinemas are available at selected locations in Gauteng and Cape Town, including Sandton City, Fourways Mall, The Zone @ Rosebank, Carnival City, Irene, Blue Route, V&A Waterfront and Capegate.
To make the holidays even more special, select Kids’ Cinema sites will host exclusive competitions and promotions — including the chance to win a private Kids’ Cinema birthday screening party for any children’s title in 2026. Simply book tickets to watch any three of the five festive titles before 11 January 2026.
Premium Movie Moments: IMAX & Cine Prestige
For movie lovers looking to elevate their cinema outing, Ster-Kinekor’s premium formats promise unforgettable experiences.
IMAX: Go Big or Go Home
With its towering screens and immersive surround sound, IMAX delivers cinematic spectacle at its finest. One of the most anticipated releases of the season, Avatar: Fire & Ash, arrives in IMAX from 17 December. As Jake Sully and Neytiri face a new threat on Pandora following devastating loss, audiences can expect a visually breathtaking and emotionally charged experience made for the biggest screen possible.
Cine Prestige: Luxury Meets Cinema
For those seeking indulgence, Cine Prestige offers a refined movie-going escape. Plush red leather recliners, private lounges and gourmet food delivered directly to your seat create the perfect setting for festive date nights, special celebrations or year-end treats.
More Festive Highlights for Every Taste
Ster-Kinekor’s holiday slate extends well beyond family favourites. Thriller fans can catch The Housemaid from 19 December, while music lovers may be drawn to Song Sung Blue (from 26 December), a heartwarming story about second chances, love and a Neil Diamond tribute band.
Also releasing on 26 December is Anaconda, a thrilling adventure where nostalgia turns dangerous as friends revisit a beloved movie — with deadly consequences.
For a touch of festive tradition, ballet lovers can enjoy the Paris Opera Ballet’s stunning production of The Nutcracker, screening at select cinemas from 20 December — a magical experience perfectly suited to the season.
Deals, Parties and Extra Entertainment
Cinemagoers can also take advantage of value offerings through Discovery Vitality, Edgars Club, and the SK Club Epic Deal, which includes a movie ticket, popcorn and a drink for just R149.90 (Monday to Friday).
If your child’s birthday falls during the holidays, Ster-Kinekor’s kids’ birthday party packages offer a stress-free celebration complete with movie tickets and catering.
And for Joburg locals with extra holiday energy to burn, the newly launched SKX-PERIENCE powered by Jozi X at The Zone in Rosebank introduces an interactive entertainment hub featuring axe throwing, gel blasters, splatter rooms and escape rooms — adding a whole new dimension to the cinema experience.
This festive season, Ster-Kinekor invites audiences to celebrate the holidays the best way possible — together. With laughter, wonder, adventure, luxury and the magic that only movies can deliver, it’s time to make memories on the big screen.
🎬 Book now at www.sterkinekor.com or via the SK App.
📞 Ticketline: 0861-Movies (668 437)
