Johannesburg – The SPAR Carols By Candlelight Presented By Jacaranda FM dazzled audiences once again this year, proving to be a resounding success with a sold-out crowd, stellar performances, and a fundraising initiative that spreads festive cheer far and wide.
Held at the SunBet Arena in Menlyn, the event brought together families, friends, and music lovers for an unforgettable evening of Christmas carols and holiday classics, while raising vital funds for communities in need.
This year’s star-studded line-up featured incredible live performances from Elandré, Lee Cole, Zoë Modiga, BlackByrd, Just 6, Ruan du Toit, Charlize Berg, Lloyd Cele, Jesse Clegg, and The Ndlovu Youth Choir, who delivered soul-stirring renditions of beloved festive hits.
Ndlovu Youth Choir 
Rozanne McKenzie 
Tarryn Lamb and Lloyd Cele 
Tarryn Lamb 
Danny Painter and DJ Ankletap 
Zoe Modiga 
Joe Mann, Rozanne McKenzie and Rob Forbes 
Elandre 
Barney Simon 
Thabiso Khambule 
Philicity Reeken and Xola Ntshinga 
Zoe Modiga 
Zoe Modiga 
Danny Painter 
DJ- Ankleta 
Elana Afrika Bredenkamp 
Lloyd Cele. 
Martin Bester 
Lee Cole
Adding to the magic, the Jacaranda FM DJs took to the stage, engaging with fans, sharing laughs, and amplifying the holiday spirit that makes this annual tradition so special.
Over 7 000 tickets sold out in advance, and the event raised a staggering R927 216 for charitable causes.
These funds made a tangible difference:
- 1 200 children received Santa Shoeboxes valued at R600 000, bringing joy to young lives during the holidays;
- 192 staff members were gifted SPAR hampers worth R67 200 as a token of appreciation; and
- As part of Good Morning Angels’ 20-year celebration, 13 children’s homes and organisations each received R20 000, totalling R260 000.
Overall, the initiative served 24 communities across four provinces, embodying the true essence of giving back.
“SPAR Carols By Candlelight is so much more than a concert; it’s a cherished annual tradition that truly embodies the spirit of giving,” said Vuyani Dombo, Managing Director of Jacaranda FM.
“The fact that we were a sold-out show and raised nearly a million rand is a huge testament to the heart and kindness of our listeners and our partners at SPAR.
“Every year, people look forward to this moment of togetherness, and the good it does is profound.
“It is the perfect blend of world-class entertainment and meaningful community upliftment, and we are so grateful to our partners, performers, and listeners for making it such a success.”
Relive the Magic on Christmas Eve
More than 10 000 viewers tuned into the livestream, but for those who want to relive the festive cheer or enjoy the concert during Christmas preparations, the full event will be rebroadcast all day on 24 December on www.jacarandafm.com, providing the perfect musical backdrop to Christmas Eve.
