Pretoria's "Purple Christmas" is all we need this Festive Season

We've all heard of a "White Christmas" that is experienced in the Northern Hemisphere during the festive season. As snow blankets over everything, from buildings and trees to roads and cars, countries such as America and Canada experience Christmas in shades of white glistening snow.  A White Christmas is known throughout the world, however, there is another shade of Christmas that very few people know about. For this, you need to venture in the administrative capital of SA, in the city of Pretoria, Gauteng. Here, residents and holidaymakers alike, experience Christmas in hues of glorious purple. 

Yes, Pretoria is the land of the "Purple Christmas" thanks to around 70 000 Jacaranda trees that grace many streets, parks and gardens around the city. In fact, these trees are so popular that Pretoria has been nicknamed "Jacaranda City". The colourful purple petals come into bloom from late September to mid-November, and this means by December the trees are in full bloom. It is truly a sight to behold as the city is draped in a magnificent display of colour and sidewalks are carpeted by falling petals. 

Interestingly, the Jacaranda tree is not indigenous to South Africa - it was introduced from Brazil to the country in 1829. Some of the first trees were planted around Bosman and Cilliers Streets, and today, these still stand and represent some of the oldest Jacarandas in the city. 

If a "Purple Christmas" is what you're after, then Pretoria is the place to be this festive season. With enough events lined up, your 2019 going into 2020 is guaranteed to be one to remember. 

Lights, Magic and more

    - Event: Village of Wonder Lights

The Wonderpark Shopping Centre is lighting up for Christmas and has created a magical display at the heart of the centre. Glowing trees, flowers, carriages and other festive lights will keep children entertained after the shopping is done.

When: 1 November to 10 January 

Venue: Wonderpark Shopping Centre

    - Event: A White Horse Christmas

Why not kick off the festive season with music, carols and dancing white stallions? Yes, A White Horse Christmas promises this and more as you get mesmerised by majestic stallions that never miss a beat while enjoying your favourite Christmas melody. 

When: 8 December - 23 December

Venue: South African Lipizzaners, Midrand

Live shows

    - Event: 101 Hits

The Barnyard Theatre is synonymous with artists who bring record-breaking music to life through song, dance and killer guitar and drum skills. 101 Hits is a perfect example of this as audiences get taken on a roller-coaster ride of popular songs over the past 60 years. 

When: 10 November to 29 December 

Venue: Menlyn Barnyard Theatre, Menlyn Park

    - Event: Disney's The Lion King live in concert

One of the most acclaimed animations, The Lion King, will be brought to life in the Sun Arena this December. Incredible local talent will take this show to new heights as the Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestra, under prominent conductor Eddie Clayton, immerses audiences in a visual and musical experience.

When: 10 December to 12 December 

Venue: Time Square Sun Arena, Waterkloof Glen

    - Event: Brian McKnight & Karyn White

International hitmakers, Brian McKnight and Karyn White, will perform their most loved songs in a one-night event in the Sun Arena. They will be joined by powerhouse local artists including Lira and Lady Zamar. 

When: 20 December

Venue: Time Square Sun Arena, Waterkloof Glen

Christmas Markets

    - Event: Christmas Market - Irene Village Market

Your one-stop Christmas shop comes to Irene Village Market for three days in December, on the 7th, 14th and 16th. Here, you will find 100 local handmade arts and craft stalls, a deli, craft beer and live music.

When: 7 December to 16 December 

Venue: Irene Village Market, Olifantsfontein

    - Event: Brooklyn Square Rooftop Antique Christmas Market

For those who love searching for antiques and uncovering treasures, this market is for you. Not only is it Pretoria's oldest antique market, but it also helps to raise funds for the SPCA. After all, this is the season of giving back.

When: 16 December  

Venue: Brooklyn Square

If "Jacaranda City" is your answer to celebrating the Festive Season, then you will not be disappointed. From magical lights and dancing stallions to captivating live events and charming markets - Pretoria's Purple Christmas is the place to be as we close off 2019!