Looking for a festive outing that will have the kids talking long after the holidays begin? Mall of Africa is turning its Crystal Court into a Gingerbread Village from 4 to 24 December 2026. Expect biscuit decorating, games, magical photos and a very famous Gingerbread Man. If you are in Pretoria and wondering whether it is worth the drive to Waterfall City, the answer is yes. Here is everything you need to know.
What Is the Gingerbread Village?
The Gingerbread Village is an immersive family experience at Mall of Africa. It brings together creative biscuit decorating, interactive games, digital storytelling and photo moments. You will find it in the Crystal Court, between Lacoste and Boss.
Why It Is Worth the Trip
Pretoria families have plenty of festive options, but this one packs a lot into a single visit. Children get to create something, play something and take something home. Parents get a proper day out, with shopping, dining and entertainment at the mall once the fun is done. The mall will also operate extended trading hours, so there is more time to enjoy it all.
Decorate Your Own Biscuit in the Magic Bakery
The Magic Bakery is the heart of the village. Each child decorates their very own gingerbread biscuit. It then goes on a theatrical journey through the bakery, helped along by animated elves and a magical conveyor belt. When it is ready, it comes back to its young baker in a beautiful take-home box.
Games and Activities for All Ages
There is plenty to do beyond the bakery, so little ones and bigger kids are both covered.
Marshmallow Manor
Visitors can test their aim for the chance to win prizes from Mall of Africa stores. It is a good one for competitive parents too.
Whack-a-Biscuit and Biscuit Ballers
These two games bring friendly family competition to the village. Biscuit Ballers keeps the older kids entertained, so nobody feels too grown up for the fun.
Magic Mirror and Photo Moments
The Magic Mirror uses AI to create a special festive photo. It is sent straight to you on WhatsApp, so you can share it with family right away.
The Gingerbread Man appears daily throughout the activation. Two more themed photo installations, on opposite sides of the mall, give you extra chances to capture your festive memories.
Tickets, Sessions and Booking
The Gingerbread Village runs in timed 50-minute sessions. That leaves time to explore the rest of the mall before or after your session.
Tickets cost R65 per person. They are available through Quicket or at the door, and entry covers the village and all the featured activities. Pre-booking is recommended so you can secure your preferred session. Walk-ins are welcome, subject to availability.
Children must be supervised by a parent or guardian throughout the experience.
More Festive Fun at Mall of Africa
Make the most of your trip with a few extra stops:
Babylonstoren Pop-Up Store
Babylonstoren has a pop-up store next to SKINS in the Crystal Court. It runs from 23 October until 24 December and offers farm-inspired gifts and speciality products. It is a good place to find something for the person who is hard to buy for.
Gift Wrapping for a Good Cause
Themed gift-wrapping stations are located on the Upper Level opposite Michael Kors, and on the lower level opposite Truworths. All proceeds go to the Reach For A Dream Foundation, which helps bring joy to children living with life-threatening illnesses. You get neatly wrapped presents, and a child gets a little extra magic.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Gingerbread Village
When does the Gingerbread Village run?
The Gingerbread Village runs from 4 to 24 December 2026 in the Crystal Court at Mall of Africa.
How much does it cost?
Tickets cost R65 per person. This includes access to the village and all the featured activities.
How do I book?
You can buy tickets through Quicket or at the door. Pre-booking is recommended to secure your preferred session, and walk-ins are welcome subject to availability.
How long does each session last?
Each session lasts 50 minutes. This gives families time to enjoy the activities and then explore the rest of the mall.
Do children need to be supervised?
Yes. Children must be supervised by a parent or guardian throughout the experience.
Is there anything for older kids?
Yes. Biscuit Ballers keeps older kids entertained, and Marshmallow Manor and the Magic Mirror are fun for all ages.
Plan Your Festive Day Out
Between the Magic Bakery, the games and the Gingerbread Man, this is a festive outing the whole family will enjoy. Book your session, bring the kids and make a day of it at Mall of Africa.