Johannesburg – As the year draws to a close and the country settles into festive mode, South Africa’s favourite personalities are stepping away from red carpets and studio lights in favour of family tables, familiar traditions, and a well-earned pause.
From cosy family rituals to all-day braais, these stars are keeping it real, reminding us that the true magic of Christmas lies in time spent together.
Jonathan Boynton-Lee, TV personality and filmmaker
For many, Christmas is a time-capsule of childhood memories.
For TV personality Jonathan Boynton-Lee, the magic lies in the consistency of his family’s traditions.
“Christmas is always the same,” he shares.
“In the morning, it’s mom’s freshly baked mince pies and sitting around the tree opening presents.
“Then later we share a Christmas lunch together at my sister’s house,” he shares.”
For Jonathan, the day is all about simplicity and connection.
Nomuzi ‘Moozlie’ Mabena, rapper and media personality
Rapper and media personality Nomuzi ‘Moozlie’ Mabena uses the holidays as a reset button.
“Christmas for me is all about slowing down and being present,” she says.
“It’s a time I really cherish with my family – sharing good food, lots of laughter, and moments that remind me of what truly matters.
“I use this time to rest, reflect on the year that’s been, and reset for what’s ahead.
“Christmas reminds me to lead with love, kindness, and appreciation.”
Martin Bester, Jacaranda FM radio personality
Jacaranda FM’s beloved breakfast host Martin Bester is heading down to the Eastern Cape for a restorative holiday.
“Christmas, for me, is all about catching up,” he says.
“Catching up on sleep, but also catching up with family and friends.
“We will be making a big Christmas table in the Karoo.
“I am excited about recharging my batteries and getting some fresh air.
“I also take time to reflect on the year that was.
“It was a great year for ‘Breakfast With Martin Bester’ on Jacaranda FM, and I am looking forward to coming back with a clear head in 2026.”
Chad Jones, content creator
Content creator and entrepreneur Chad Jones knows the grind never stops, but Christmas offers a fun twist.
“Christmas as a content creator and entrepreneur means that you never get leave,” Chad says.
“However, on Christmas, I make sure that I spend time with my family (and take the opportunity to shoot some videos with them!).
“Every Christmas we have a huge braai, get the family together and eat the entire day.
“We love this time of year, celebrating the festivities of the season and taking a step back to spend some time with those important to us.”
Bolele Polisa, radio personality
For radio personality Bolele Polisa, Christmas is deeply rooted in family traditions and moments that have been carried from childhood into adulthood.
“Christmas has always been a really special time for me and my family,” she says.
“One of our favourite traditions is waking up just before sunrise on Christmas morning and going outside to watch the sun ‘dance’.
“It’s one of my most treasured childhood memories, and something we’ve held onto even as adults.”
Food, as with many South African families, plays a central role in bringing everyone together.
“We always end up at my aunt’s house for Christmas lunch, cooking all the different ‘colours’ together,” Bolele explains.
“I’m looking forward to the gammon, the homemade bread, the cornbread, all the salads and, of course, the roasted lamb.
“It really is our favourite time as a family. I am excited about hanging out with my cousins, playing 30 Seconds, and reflecting on the year that’s been!”
This holiday season, these celebs are proving that whether it’s a big braai or quiet family time, Christmas in South Africa is about heart, loved ones, and holding onto what counts.
