KwaZulu-Natal, 9 July 2026:Gateway Theatre of Shopping is giving families every reason to make the most of the winter school holidays with an exciting selection of entertainment experiences. As KwaZulu-Natal’s premier entertainment destination, Gateway offers countless opportunities to play, explore and create lasting memories throughout the school break.

Whether families are looking for action-packed activities, mind-bending experiences or a chance to slow down and enjoy a meal together, Gateway offers something for every kind of school holiday adventure, all conveniently located in one destination.

A World of Adventure Awaits

Families visiting Gateway this holiday will have plenty of opportunities to dive into enthralling experiences. Visitors can test their strength, agility and determination at Total Ninja, explore gravity-defying exhibits and optical illusions at the Museum of Illusions, or jump, climb and play at Be Up Park.

Those looking for extra excitement can take on the twists and turns at Indy Karting, while movie lovers can settle in for the latest family-friendly films at Nu Metro Cinemas, including its dedicated Kiddies Cinema designed especially for younger audiences.

Adding to the excitement this holiday, Gateway is giving shoppers the chance to win one of three incredible “Fun in the 031” family experiences. Each prize package unlocks entertainment for two, featuring some of Gateway’s most popular attractions, including Indy Karting, Nu Metro, Be Up Park and Funtubbles, valued at over R3 400 each. To enter, visit Gateway’s Facebook and Instagram pages, like the post and tag a favourite Gateway entertainment destination in the comments.

This is the perfect opportunity to win a day packed with action, adventure and unforgettable family moments.

Meet the Minions This July

Adding even more excitement, families will also have the chance to meet two mischievous fan favourites, characters Henry and James, during a special Minions Meet & Greet on  Saturday, 11 July from 11:00 to 19:00 in the food court. Young fans can look forward to memorable photo opportunities and plenty of playful fun with the beloved characters, as well as the movie Minions & Monsters, releasing at the NuMetro cinema.

“Gateway has long been recognised as a destination where families can spend meaningful time together, and we are delighted to offer an incredible range of diverse experiences under one roof,” said Ayesha Sewbaran, Marketing Manager at Gateway Theatre of Shopping. “This winter holiday, we are inviting families to explore, play and create memorable moments together while discovering something fun at every turn.”

By bringing together a mix of active play, immersive entertainment and family-friendly experiences, Gateway continues to offer visitors far more than a traditional shopping trip during the school holidays.

For more information about Gateway, its stores, experiences and promotions, visit gatewayworld.co.za or follow the centre on social media on Instagram.com.

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East London, 7 July 2026: This July school holiday, Vincent Park will welcome aspiring young bakers to The Cupcake Factory: The Little Bakers Workshop, where children can enjoy a hands-on baking and decorating experience. Hosted daily in the Foschini Court until Saturday, 18 July, the activation offers little ones the opportunity to decorate sweet creations, explore their creativity and make lasting holiday memories with family and friends.

Blending creativity, learning and play, The Cupcake Factory has been designed to give children a safe, guided and entertaining environment where they can decorate cupcakes, cookies and mini cakes before taking their delicious creations home.

A Creative Experience for Young Bakers

The workshop will run daily during the school holiday period, with two sessions available each day from 11:00 to 12:30 and 13:00 to 15:00. Each session will accommodate up to 24 children, creating an intimate and engaging environment for little bakers to experiment, decorate and have fun.

To keep the experience fresh and encourage repeat visits, the activation will feature rotating daily themes. Children can look forward to decorating cupcakes inspired by favourite animals, soccer and World Cup-themed creations, cartoon-inspired designs, mini cake decorating masterclasses and icing mixing lessons, alongside seasonal baking fun.

Baking Kindness Into Every Creation

Adding a meaningful community element to the experience, each participating child will receive two cupcakes to decorate. One cupcake will be theirs to enjoy and take home, while the second will be donated to bring joy to children in need.

Cupcakes donated during the activation will be collected daily and delivered to a local children’s home, charity organisation or hospital, helping to teach young participants the importance of kindness, generosity and giving back through a simple but meaningful gesture.

“The Cupcake Factory has been created to give families something fun and memorable to enjoy together during the school holidays, while also encouraging creativity and kindness,” said centre manager – name TBC. “We hope children leave not only proud of what they have made, but excited by the opportunity to brighten someone else’s day too.”

Tickets for The Cupcake Factory: The Little Bakers Workshop are available through Quicket. Families are encouraged to book early as space is limited.

Visit the mall’s website for more information: www.vincentpark.co.za or follow the mall on social media for regular updates.

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Johannesburg, 1 July 2026: Following strong interest from shoppers and families, Bedford Centre in Johannesburg has reintroduced one of its most popular leisure attractions, Neon Glow Mini Golf, now relocated to a new space on the Piazza Level beside Salsa Mexican Grill. The experience will run from 1 to 17 July, operating 12h00 to 21h00 Monday to Saturday and 12h00 to 18h00 on Sundays.

The immersive 12-hole mini golf course quickly became a visitor favourite, thanks to its vibrant neon setting and playful obstacles. Its return follows strong demand from shoppers eager to see the attraction back at Bedford. This time in a new space at the heart of the centre’s growing entertainment offering.

A Family Favourite Returns

Neon Glow Mini Golf will once again invite players into a glowing world of colour, creativity and light-hearted competition, offering an experience designed for visitors of all ages. Whether it is a family outing, a catch-up with friends or something fun to do before dinner or a movie, the attraction adds another reason for visitors to linger a little longer and make a day of their time at Bedford.

Located on the Piazza Level, the new space places Neon Glow Mini Golf alongside some of the centre’s popular entertainment and dining experiences, making it easy for visitors to turn a quick visit into a full outing.

A Piazza Designed for Entertainment

The return of Neon Glow Mini Golf adds to a growing mix of experiences within Bedford’s Piazza precinct. Visitors can pair a game with a luxury movie experience at Nu Metro VIP Cinema, test their problem-solving skills at #Escape or enjoy one of the precinct’s restaurants and cafés.

“We heard the feedback from our shoppers loud and clear,” said Bedford Management. “The response to Neon Glow Mini Golf was phenomenal, and we are delighted to bring it back in a new location that complements the growing energy of the Piazza. It is becoming a space where people can come together to enjoy great entertainment, good food and quality time.”

• For enquiries regarding Neon Golf, please call 082 765 9300.

More details, opening promotions and trading hours will be announced soon. For more information about the Bedford, tenants and promotions, visit Bedford’s website bedfordcentre.com or follow @bedfordcentre on social media.

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Cape Town, 1 July 2026: Families in Cape Town searching for an active way to keep children engaged during the winter school holidays are encouraged to visit Cavendish Square, where the Game On activation will run in Centre Court from Monday, 13 to Sunday, 19 July 2026, between 10h00 and 17h00, offering a full week of interactive sports-based entertainment.

School holidays are all about creating memorable moments together, and Game On is a wonderful opportunity for families to enjoy some active fun in a safe and welcoming environment.

Designed to get children moving and competing, Game On will transform the area into a lively sporting arena filled with interactive games, including foosball, soccer shoot-out, and a soccer sub-2 player bench, with exciting challenges and family-friendly activities. Best of all, entry is free, with participation available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Throughout the week, competitors will have the opportunity to test their skills, take on a variety of sporting challenges and stand a chance to win prizes. Prizes include Cavendish Square Gift Cards, vouchers from Simply Asia (now halal-certified), Milky Lane Nice Ice Cream Sticks and other exciting rewards.

Play, Compete and Win

Game On offers an entertaining way for children to stay active while enjoying a little friendly competition.

Visitors can also extend their day out by enjoying a meal at one of Cavendish Square’s restaurants or cafés after taking part in the activities.

For more details on Cavendish Square shopping centre’s stores and promotions, visit cavendish.co.za or follow the centre on social media for regular updates on Instagram.com.

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Cape Town, 29 June 2026: After the strong response to last year’s Glow Kids activation, Liberty Promenade is stepping things up this mid-year school holiday with Glow Studio: Create. Illuminate — an immersive neon experience that brings families together through creativity, laughter, and a touch of playful mess.

From Wednesday 1 July to Sunday 19 July 2026, the centre’s old cinema space in the Food District will transform into a glowing interactive studio where children and parents can paint, splash, spray and create under dazzling UV lights which create vibrant neon colours.

Open daily from 12 midday to 5 PM, Glow Studio: Create. Illuminate promises an electrifying escape from screens and routines, inviting visitors to step into a world where imagination takes over and creativity has no limits. Entry costs R30 per person. Bookings can be made at the registration desk, with both cash and card payments accepted.

A Glowing World of Creativity

Bigger, brighter and more interactive than before, the experience will feature giant glow walls, neon paint zones, immersive lighting effects, an infinity mirror room and hands-on creative stations designed to encourage playful self-expression. Families are invited to get messy together as music, colour and glowing artwork fill the space with energy throughout the school holiday.

Designed as a shared family activity, Glow Studio: Create. Illuminate creates space for parents and children to reconnect through creativity and play while making lasting memories together.

Creating Joy While Giving Back

Beyond the glowing paint and colourful fun, the activation also carries an important community element. A portion of every ticket sold during the activation will go towards providing art supplies to a local NPO or daycare centre in underserved local communities, extending the spirit of creativity beyond the walls of the experience itself.

Visitors will also have the chance to take part in the snap-and-win competition by sharing photos or videos from the activation by using #LPGlowStudio on Instagram, Facebook or TikTok. Four lucky participants will each win a R500 Liberty Promenade gift card.

For more information on Promenade and its projects, visit libertypromenade.co.za or follow Liberty Promenade on Facebook, Instagram @ libertypromenademall_za and TikTok @libertypromenademall.

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Johannesburg, 25 June 2026: The South African LEGO User Group (LUG) LEGO® Exhibition 2026 will take over Sandton City on Saturday, 27 and Sunday, 28 June, showcasing the imagination, craftsmanship and technical skill of leading local LEGO creators in a two-day display of design and construction.

Taking place in the main centre court from 09:00 to 18:00 daily, the free exhibition will invite visitors to explore an impressive collection of custom-built LEGO® creations by members of recognised LEGO® User Groups, offering a rare opportunity to experience the scale, complexity and imagination behind one of the world’s most beloved creative formats. Entry is free.

An Extraordinary Display of Creativity and Craftsmanship

From sprawling cityscapes and detailed architectural builds to intricate technical models and pop culture-inspired creations, LUG: LEGO® Exhibition 2026 will showcase the remarkable possibilities of what can be achieved with the iconic brick.

The exhibition will feature highly detailed, large-scale builds created by experienced enthusiasts and collectors from across South Africa, many of whom will step out from behind the scenes to share insights into their creative process, techniques and inspiration. Designed to appeal to visitors of all ages, the exhibition offers an opportunity to be enthralled, take in the craftsmanship on display and explore the detail, creativity and precision behind these remarkable creations.

Inspiration for Builders of Every Age

While the exhibition is not a hands-on workshop, visitors will have the chance to explore rows of imaginative displays, gather ideas for projects of their own and connect with South Africa’s wider LEGO® building community. Families, collectors and curious creators can expect a visually engaging experience, with opportunities to photograph standout builds, learn more about advanced construction techniques and discover how local building communities continue to push creative boundaries.

For those eager to start creating their own builds, Sandton City provides the perfect next step with one of South Africa’s biggest LEGO® Certified Stores, featuring an extensive collection of sets to help enthusiasts bring their ideas to life.

With an unmatched mix of retail, entertainment, and world-class lifestyle attractions, Sandton City continues to set the pace as Africa’s most iconic shopping centre. For regular updates, go to sandtoncity.com or follow Sandton City on social media @sandtoncitymall.

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Johannesburg, 25 June 2026: The wait is almost over. Illumination’s Minions & Monsters opens in South African cinemas nationwide on Friday, 26 June, bringing audiences a brand-new adventure featuring the world’s most mischievous yellow troublemakers. To celebrate the release, two fan-favourite Minions, James and Henry, will embark on a nationwide roadshow, visiting shopping centres and cinemas across South Africa, where families can meet them in person, snap photos and join in the mayhem.

The tour kicks off at Movies @ Montecasino on Friday 26 June, where fans can also explore a dedicated Minions & Monsters themed world packed with themed décor, photo opportunities and Minion-inspired fun. This activation will remain open until Sunday, 5 July.

Following appearances in Johannesburg at Mall of Africa, Menlyn Park, The Grove Mall, Eastgate Shopping Centre, The Zone @ Rosebank and The Glen, the Minions will continue their adventure in Cape Town, Durban and Mpumalanga, giving fans around the country the opportunity to come face-to-face with two of animation’s most recognisable characters.

Fresh off the worldwide blockbuster success of Despicable Me 4, Minions & Monsters sees the Minions conquer Hollywood, become movie stars, lose everything, unleash monsters onto the world and then attempt to save the planet from the chaos they have created. Directed by Academy Award nominee Pierre Coffin, who has voiced the Minions since their debut in 2010, the film introduces an all-new story in what has become the biggest animated franchise in history, with more than US$5.6 billion at the global box office.

Minions Meet and Greets

Johannesburg

• Friday 26 June: Montecasino, 12h00 – 16h00
• Saturday 27 June: Mall of Africa, 11h00 – 18h00
• Sunday 28 June: Menlyn Park, 11h00 – 16h00
• Monday 29 June: The Grove Mall, 09h30 – 16h00
• Tuesday 30 June: Eastgate Shopping Centre, 11h30 – 14h00
• Tuesday 30 June: The Zone @ Rosebank, 16h00 – 19h00
• Thursday 16 July: The Glen, 11h00 – 16h00

Cape Town

• Friday 3 July: Cavendish Square, 11h00 – 18h00
• Saturday 4 July: Canal Walk, 11h00 – 18h00
• Sunday 5 July: V&A Waterfront, 11h00 – 16h00
• Monday 6 July: Blue Route Mall, 11h00 – 16h00

Durban

• Thursday 9 July: CineCentre Suncoast, 13h00 – 19h00
• Friday 10 July: Pavilion, 11h00 – 18h00
• Saturday 11 July: Gateway, 11h00 – 19h00
• Sunday 12 July: Cornubia, 11h00 – 16h00
• Monday 13 July: Galleria, 11h00 – 16h00

Surrounding Areas

• Friday 17 July: Ilanga, 12h00 – 17h00
• Saturday 18 July: Ilanga, 09h00 – 12h00
• Sunday 19 July: Mall of the North, 09h00 – 15h20

For families looking to add a little extra Minion mayhem to the school holidays, the Minions & Monsters roadshow promises plenty of laughs, memorable photo opportunities and the chance to meet two of cinema’s most beloved troublemakers.

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Johannesburg, 23 June 2026: Fourways Mall is set to turn up the energy this winter, giving families a strong indoor option as The Gauntlet—South Africa’s largest inflatable obstacle course—moves into the mall’s centre court from 26 June to 9 July 2026.

At over 650 sqm in size, the giant inflatable park will be the first indoor activation of its kind in South Africa, bringing bouncing, climbing, crawling, sliding and racing together in one action-packed course. Open daily from 9 am to 6 pm, The Gauntlet will form the centrepiece of Fourways Mall’s winter school holiday entertainment programme, giving children, teenagers, young adults and families a fresh way to burn off holiday energy.

A Giant Challenge for the Holidays

Designed for active play and friendly competition, The Gauntlet invites visitors to take on a series of inflatable challenges as they race towards the finish line. It is the kind of activity that works just as well for siblings competing against each other, friends looking for a laugh or parents brave enough to join the action.

The experience is ideal for families and groups looking for something different during the winter break, with the added advantage of being indoors and weather-proof. With limited daily capacity, advance booking is recommended. Tickets start at R 100 per person, and are now available via Howler.

More Ways to Play, Climb, Jump and Race

Beyond The Gauntlet, Fourways Mall offers an exciting line-up of holiday attractions for toddlers, children, teenagers and adults. Families can tee off at Adventure Golf, one of Johannesburg’s most established adventure golf attractions, with three themed 9-hole courses set among waterfalls, streams, caves and landscaped gardens.

For more active play, BOUNCE INC offers freestyle jumping, dodgeball, slam dunk zones, obstacle challenges, Clip ’n Climb walls and miniBOUNCE for younger children. Total Ninja Interactive brings together movement and digital gaming through interactive projections and sensors, whereas Bloc 11 offers indoor climbing and bouldering with classes and coaching.

The Fourways Mall Ster-Kinekor includes a dedicated Kids Cinema experience where blockbuster films like Minions & Monsters and Toy Story 5 will be showing. The Fun Company offers arcade games, redemption games and 10-pin bowling, while Shooters provides a social gaming environment that is family-friendly until 6 pm.

For visitors who want more speed, skills or competition, Xtreme Go Karting delivers indoor racing, and Urban Playground brings together a skate park, e-gaming, indoor soccer and other recreational activities.

An All-In-One Holiday Outing

With so many options under one roof, families can combine The Gauntlet with lunch, a movie, bowling, go-karting, climbing or arcade games to create a full school holiday outing. Family-friendly dining options include Spur and Panarottis, both offering dedicated children’s play areas.

Fourways Mall’s longer trading hours are designed to make holiday outings more convenient, with most stores operating from 9 am to 8 pm Monday to Saturday, and from 9 am to 7 pm on Sundays and public holidays. Visitors also benefit from free parking after 5pm daily.

For more information, visit fourwaysmall.com or follow the mall on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and X for the latest updates.

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Umhlanga, 13 May 2026:Excitement surged as the globally recognised Museum of Illusions Durban officially opened its doors at Gateway Theatre of Shopping, marking the attraction’s debut in KwaZulu-Natal. Durban residents arrived in droves, with families, content creators, friends and curious visitors all keen to experience the museum’s mind-bending exhibits firsthand. Packed walkways, enthusiastic crowds and social media buzzing with photos and reactions highlighted just how eager the city was to welcome the illusion-filled attraction.

Already a global phenomenon with locations in cities including Madrid, Paris, Amsterdam, New York and Dubai, the Durban opening marks another major milestone in the brand’s expansion across Africa. With successful museums already operating in Johannesburg and Cape Town, the Durban location further cements South Africa as a key destination in the Museum of Illusions’ global network.

From defying gravity in the Tilted Room to multiplying themselves in the Cloning Table and stepping into the hypnotic Infinity Room, visitors fully embraced the hands-on nature of the experience. Forget quiet museum rules, this is a space built for play, curiosity and unforgettable moments.

“The response from Durban has exceeded all expectations,” says Mark Collie, owner of Museum of Illusions South Africa. “From the moment we opened our doors, the energy has been incredible. Seeing families, friends and visitors of all ages engage with the exhibits, laugh, learn and share the experience together is exactly what the Museum of Illusions is all about. Durban has truly embraced us, and we’re excited to become part of the city’s entertainment landscape.”

Built around its signature “edutainment” philosophy, the museum blends science, art and immersive entertainment in a way that appeals to both kids and the young-at-heart. Whether it’s a family outing, a memorable date, a team-building activity or simply content worth sharing, the Museum of Illusions offers an experience designed to challenge perception and spark curiosity.

With an incredible opening weekend setting the tone, the Museum of Illusions Durban is set to become one of the city’s must-visit attractions.

The Museum of Illusions Durban is open 7 days a week, Mondays to Thursdays from 9 am – 8 pm, Fridays & Saturdays from 9 am – 10 pm and Sundays and Public Holidays from 9 am – 7 pm. Tickets are available online and at the door, although advance booking is recommended. The Museum also caters for birthdays, school trips, corporate events and group experiences.

For more information, visit the website moidurban.co.za or follow the Museum on social media  instagram.com.

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Johannesburg, 24 March 2026: The March and April school holidays are just around the corner, and The Zone @ Rosebank is gearing up for a lively break. From 27 March until schools reopen on 8 April, families can spend their days enjoying a mix of fun, laughter and discovery, with a variety of holiday attractions and activities spread throughout the vibrant heart of Rosebank.

Movies, Illusions and Arcade Adventures

Movie Fans can catch the latest family blockbusters on the big screen at Ster-Kinekor, such as Hoppers, Scream 7 or Finnick 2: Little Monsters, now with a kids’ cinema too. This unique cinema complex, which shows both Hollywood and Bollywood movies, has rolled out its “Kids Cinema” concept to The Zone, which includes its own foyer area, activity tables, a catering counter, bean bag seats and a slide and ball pool. Plus, two of the cinemas have received a luxurious makeover and reopened as Cine Prestige theatres, turning any ordinary movie night into something extraordinary.

Ster-Kinekor has introduced a new level of thrills, challenges and fun with interactive activities such as axe throwing, a rage room, gel shot & nerf wars, archery tag and a splatter room, with its launch of the first SKX-PERIENCE interactive space at The Zone, created in partnership with Jozi X.

Another enthralling option is to step into a world of wonder at the Museum of Illusions. South Africa’s first illusion museum of this kind is packed with interactive rooms and photo-perfect moments that twist the mind and spark curiosity. The Fun Company keeps the arcade lights flashing with games, prize machines and classic gaming entertainment. Opening soon, Bounce will offer a world of thrilling trampolines, freestyle jumps and high-energy adventures.

Explore the City and Stay Close to the Fun

For those who love exploring, families can take to the streets with City Sightseeing Johannesburg, hopping on the red bus to explore the city’s top sights all from the luxurious double-decker. Families who want to make the most of the holidays can also stay right at The Zone in Holiday Inn Rosebank, enjoying comfortable, family-friendly rooms just steps away from the action.

Leila Daya, Centre Manager at The Zone, says the school holidays are all about creating memories. “The Zone @ Rosebank brings together everything kids love in one place. From movies and illusions to city tours, there are hours of fun waiting to be had and memories ready to be made,” she says.

For more information regarding The Zone @Rosebank, its stores, events and trading hours, visit the centre’s website at thezoneatrosebank.co.za.

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