Mzansi’s celebrities share their heartwarming Christmas traditions: From family feasts to festive firsts

Published Dec 25, 2024

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The festive season is in full swing, and Mzansi’s most famous entertainers are taking time out away from their day jobs and kicking back with their families.

From cozy gatherings with family to exciting holiday adventures, everyone has their unique way of making this time of year special. 

For TV personality and musician Nomuzi ‘Moozlie’ Mabena, Christmas is all about family. This year’s plans include her handling the decor and her sister the cooking.

“This year’s Christmas is shaping up to be as magical as ever, with an extra sprinkle of love and warmth. My sister and her husband are hosting the family in their beautiful home, and I can already imagine the laughter, the good food, and the pure joy of being surrounded by the people I love,” she said. 

Moozlie adds; “Honestly, what I’m most excited about is the time I get to spend with my nieces and nephews. Celebrating with them makes everything so much more meaningful.”

For Metro FM radio presenter DJ Sabby said the festive season is a time of reflection and celebration. 

“What I love most about December in South Africa is the positive energy that’s always trending. It’s a time when family and love take centre stage,” he shared. 

This year is particularly special for DJ Sabby, as his daughter will experience her first Christmas. “She’s turning six months old, and it’s such an exciting time for our family. We’ve also decided to spend Christmas away from home this year, making it a season of firsts for us.”

After spending 2024 waking listeners up on Jacaranda FM’s Breakfast with Martin Bester, the festive season offers Martin Bester a chance to relax and recharge. 

“This time of year, I love spending time in the Great Karoo in the Eastern Cape. I get to see my dad, my family, and old friends—it’s a beautiful way to spend Christmas and New Year’s Eve.”

But Bester can’t resist putting on a show, even during his downtime. “I’ll be performing during the festive season, including a special performance at my dad’s pub. It’s a great holiday, a perfect way to relax, and a chance to reload for an exciting 2025.”

Author and radio personality Carol Ofori, along with the rest of her family are looking forward to her husband Greg’s menu.

“I’ve already requested lamb shanks—he makes the most incredible ones!” Carol shared that the festive season starts early in December in the Ofori household. 

“We have Elf on the Shelf visiting us every year, so the elves have been keeping busy! On Christmas morning, we’ll open presents, head to church, and come home to the aroma of Chef Greg’s delicious food.” 

This year, Carol’s mom will join them, making the day even more special. “We’re opening up the pool, planning to swim, eat, and enjoy ice cream. We love spending Christmas at home and soaking up all that KwaZulu Natal has to offer during this magical time of year.”

Jacaranda FM’s Rozanne McKenzie, husband, Chris, is a massive Christmas enthusiast, meaning the festive season is always a big deal in their home. 

“We have Junior, the family elf, who arrives on December 1st every year—the same day we put up all the decorations. The kids love finding their stockings on Christmas morning. We open our gifts as a family, and then I cook Christmas lunch—it’s the one day of the year I cook willingly!” 

This year, Rozanne is especially excited as her family from abroad will join the festivities. “My mom lives in London, and Chris’s parents are also in England. This year, we’re hosting everyone at our house for a big family Christmas. The kids can’t wait!” 

Whether it’s gathering around the Christmas tree, hosting loved ones, or enjoying a well-deserved break, the joy of the holidays lies in the moments shared with the people who matter most. As these celebrities remind us, it’s those little moments and big traditions that make the festive season truly magical.

IOL Entertainment