An immersive gingerbread world of biscuit decorating, interactive games, magical photo moments and family fun comes to Crystal Court from 4 to 24 December.

This festive season, Mall of Africa is inviting families to step into a world where gingerbread houses come to life, biscuits become games and delicious end-of-year magic is waiting around every corner. From 4 to 24 December 2026, the Crystal Court, between Lacoste and Boss, will be transformed into the Gingerbread Village, an immersive family experience combining creative biscuit decorating, interactive games, digital storytelling, photo opportunities and appearances by the Gingerbread Man.

At the heart of the whimsical village is the Magic Bakery, where children can decorate their very own gingerbread biscuit before sending it on a theatrical journey through the bakery. Animated elves and a magical conveyor belt will add to the experience before each creation is returned to its young baker in a beautiful take-home box.

A village made for exploring

There will be plenty more fun to discover beyond the bakery. At Marshmallow Manor, visitors can put their aim to the test for the chance to win prizes from Mall of Africa stores, while Whack-a-Biscuit and Biscuit Ballers will bring some friendly family competition to the village. The Biscuit Ballers activations will ensure there is something to keep the  older kids entertained too.

The Magic Mirror will add a digital twist to the experience, using AI to create a special festive photo that will be delivered directly to visitors via WhatsApp.

Of course, the Gingerbread Man himself will make appearances daily throughout the activation, while two additional themed photo installations located on opposite sides of the mall will extend the magic and give shoppers even more opportunities to capture their end-of-year memories.

Make a day of it at Mall of Africa

The Gingerbread Village will run in timed 50-minute sessions, giving families the opportunity to enjoy the activities before heading out to explore Mall of Africa’s extensive shopping, dining and entertainment offering during the summer holidays. The mall will operate extended trading hours, that will  apply to the Gingerbread Village, meaning more time to enjoy the activation and everything the mall has to offer. Updates will be shared on the mall’s social media feeds.

Tickets will cost R65 per person and can be purchased via Quicket or at the door.  Entry will give visitors access to the Gingerbread Village and to all the featured activities. Pre-booking is recommended to secure your preferred session, with walk-ins welcome subject to availability. Children must be supervised by a parent or guardian throughout the experience. 

Adding to the festive shopping experience, Babylonstoren will host a pop-up store next to SKINS in the Crystal Court from 23 October until 24 December, offering shoppers a unique chance to shop its exquisite farm-inspired collection of gifts and speciality products.

Wrapping up the magic for a good cause

To keep festive surprises safely under wraps until the big day, Mall of Africa will also have themed gift-wrapping stations located opposite Michael Kors on the Upper Level, and on the lower level opposite  Truworths. The stations will add a playful touch to festive gifting while supporting a worthy cause. All proceeds from the gift-wrapping service will be donated to the Reach For A Dream Foundation, helping to bring joy to children living with life-threatening illnesses.