Here’s how some of Mzansi’s favourite celebrities are celebrating the festive season this year

From cozy gatherings with family to exciting holiday adventures, everyone has their unique way of making this time of year special. With the countdown to the holidays underway, we reached out to some of Mzansi’s favourite personalities to find out how they plan to celebrate and the traditions they hold dear during this magical season.

Rozanne McKenzie, Jacaranda FM radio personality

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For Jacaranda FM’s Rozanne McKenzie, the festive season is always a big deal—thanks in large part to her husband, Chris, who’s a massive Christmas enthusiast. “I always say he puts the ‘Chris’ in Christmas,” Rozanne laughs. Rozanne and Chris go all out to make the holidays special for their kids. “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!”

Carol Ofori, author and radio personality

For Carol Ofori, Christmas is all about family, food, and fun. “On Christmas Day, my husband Greg is cooking, and the whole family is looking forward to his menu. I’ve already requested lamb shanks—he makes the most incredible ones!” Carol shares 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 KZN has to offer during this magical time of year.”

Martin Bester, Jacaranda FM radio personality

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 Martin 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.”

South African Celebrities, Image: Supplied

Nomuzi ‘Moozlie’ Mabena, TV personality and musician

For Nomuzi Mabena, Christmas is all about family. “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 says. Nomuzi adds, “As always, my sister will handle the cooking while I take care of the decor. But 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.”

DJ Sabby, radio personality

For DJ Sabby, 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 shares. This year is particularly special for 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.”

From exciting adventures to cherished traditions, the festive season is a time of connection and celebration for everyone. 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.

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