KIDS WILL DIG THIS - OUR TOP PICKS FOR UPCOMING FESTIVE EVENTS, MARKETS, MOVIES AND LIVE

SHOWS Movies
Sammy 2 in 3D - 20 000 laughs under the sea Sammy 2 in 3D sees Sammy and Ray captured by poachers and shipped off to be part of a big aquarium show in Dubai. Here we meet Big D the seahorse, Jimbo, the bug-eyed blob fish, Lulu, the snippy lobster, Annabel, the sweet Octopus and a whole family of penguins. Sammy and his new friends plan a 'break-out' which leads to series of thrilling adventures and narrow escapes. At Nu Metro and Ster Kinekor theatres. Ster Kinekor on 082 16789. Nu Metro on 086 124 6362. ParaNorman - You don't become a hero by being normal A small town comes under siege by zombies. Who can it call? Only misunderstood local boy Norman, who's able to speak with the dead can come to the rescue! In addition to the zombies, he'll have to take on ghosts, witches and, worst of all, grown-ups, to save his town from a centuries-old curse. Booking at Nu Metro and Ster Kinekor theatres now. Ster Kinekor on 082 16789 and Nu Metro on 086 124 6362. Twilight Breaking Dawn Part 2 The record-breaking vampire teen saga comes to an end with this final instalment which sees Bella coming into her own as a vampire and realising her powers. The conflict with the Volturi comes to a climax, launching the Cullins and their wolf friends into war.

Currently on at Ster Kinekor and Nu Metro cinemas. Ster Kinekor on 082 16789 and Nu Metro on 086 124 6362. Adventures in Zambezia (Opens 28 December) A proudly South African animation about a young falcon who journeys to the bird city of Zambezia, leaving his home and father to make a life for himself. He soon discovers that living in a community can be more difficult than surviving in the wild and it's only when the city comes under threat that he comes to understand that the only life worth living is a life lived with others. Opening at Nu Metro Cinemas on 28 December. Nu Metro on 086 124 6362. Finding Nemo in 3D (Starts 30 November) The epic Pixar Animation classic hits cinemas for the second time and this time fans can expect all their favourite moments to come alive in high-quality 3D, the only way Pixar know how! Once again audiences are transported under-water to the Great Barrier Reef where Nemo is captured and put in a tank while his rather high-strung father Marlin risks everything to rescue him. Starting Nu Metro and Ster Kinekor cinemas on 30 November. Ster Kinekor on 082 16789 and Nu Metro on 086 124 6362.

Theatre & Stage Events

Annie Jr. at National Childrens Theatre (Ends 23 December) The classic story of orphan Annie as she looks for a good family to take her, Annie Jr. Features all your favourite songs including its a Hard Knock Life, Easy Street, Youre Never Fully Dressed Without a Smile and Tomorrow. Running at National Childrens Theatre until 23 December. R80 to R100. 011 484 1584/5 Potted Potter (23 November to 6 January) Potted Potter is a parody starring Gary Trainor and Jesse Briton which has played to sold out houses all over the world, taking on the ultimate challenge of condensing all seven Harry Potter books (and a real life game of Quidditch) into seventy hilarious minutes. R100 to R200 per person. 083 915 8000 Janice Honeymans Giant of a pantomime (29 November to 30 December) Pantomime and Christmas go hand in hand, a formula Janice Honeyman has stuck to for years and it never disappoints. This year is the classic re-telling of the Jack and the Beanstalk. Cheer the hero, boo the villain, and revel in the stunning costumes! Running at Joburg theatre from 29 November to 30 December. R140 to R240 per person. 083 915 8000 Disney's Little Mermaid (1 December to 23 December)

The magical underwater Disney classic brought to life in this musical story of The Little Mermaid Jr. at the Peoples Theatre. Join little mermaid Ariel, whose dream is to become a human and meet her Prince and marry him. Her delightful sea-creature friends assist her in achieving her wish and add colour to the engaging plot. R99 per person. 083 915 8000 Puppet Show Toy Shop Trouble (7 - 15 December) An amazing modern puppet show, introducing some phenomenal new and beautiful puppets. This show is bound to keep the little ones entertained as they are taken through an adventure in a toy shop. A most magical, mysterious and entertaining show produced against a stunning puppet show set that will keep little ones spellbound. R65 per person. 012 662 4446 Christmas... and all that Jazz (9 December) Sandtons Old Mutual Theatre on the Square will host another Jazz Concert with Tony Yoko, to celebrate the start of the festive season. "Christmas and all that Jazz" features leading jazz performers and focuses on jazz standards and renditions of songs appropriate for the festive season. R150 per person. 011 883 8606 Tricky Trevor's Magic Show (12 December) Trevor has become a household name in Johannesburg over the years with his one of a kind magic shows and balloon modelling and this is your chance to catch him live performing one of his comical magic shows at Linden Library. Free entrance. 011 849 5847 Rooftop Holiday Circus (16 December) Visit the B&B Rooftop Market for a Holiday Circus featuring the crme de la crme of South African circus talent. Featuring the death-defying sword and dagger balance to fire eating, a locked chain escape and spine-chilling chain saw juggling and lots more, this is going to be a show you won't want to miss out on! Free entrance. 011 442 4488 XTreme Biker Show (23 December) Get your adrenaline pumping with an action-packed display of extreme motorcycle manipulation and breath-taking BMX stunts at the Hillfox Christmas Market on Sunday 23 December 2012. South African extreme sports legend Brian Capper and daredevil Dylan Victor flirt with danger as they attack a series of impossible obstacles. Free entrance. 011 477 8899 Nadine - Christmas in South Africa (22 December) A unique show with the most beautiful Christmas Carols and the most wonderful Christmas Songs from Nadines newly released album "Christmas in South Africa". Featuring Grammy Award Winners the Soweto Gospel Choir this Christmas spectacular

takes place in the Montecasino Outdoor Piazza. R175 per person. 083 915 8000 Christmas on Ice at Northgate Dome (27 and 28 December) Enjoy a winter wonderland with your entire family this Christmas at Northgate Shopping Centre. Re-discover the essence of Christmas, enjoy sing-a-long carols with dynamic professional singers and delightful performances with graceful and exciting figureskaters. R70 per person. 083 915 8000 Hansel & Gretel (8 to 20 December) Hansel and Gretel in the Sweet Factory is a wonderful holiday pantomime for the whole family, based on the popular fairy tale by The Brothers Grimm with a twist. Fantastic music and songs will have you all bopping in your seats. Visit the Barnyard Theatre website for more info. www.barnyardtheatre.co.za

Christmas Markets; Festivals and Carols

Carols in the Piazza Bedfordview (1 December) Get into the festive spirit with Christmas carols in the trendy Bedford Piazza featuring the Choir School of Bishop Bavin. Book a table at one of the stunning Piazza restaurants and get a 5-star view of the whole evening or bring your own camper chair and take advantage of the light refreshments on offer. Free. 011 622 1840 Christmas Carols at Ngwenya Glass Village (1 December) Sing along to your favourite Christmas carols at the beautiful and unique Ngwenya Glass Village out in serene Muldersdrift. Carols start at 19h00. Free entrance. +27 83 611 4350 Carols by Candlelight at the Garden (1 December) The Botanical Society of South Africa, in association with Old Mutual once again brings you Carols by Candlelight at the Walter Sisulu National Botanical Gardens. Join in the fun and sing along to Christmas Carols with the Mzansi Youth Choir whilst enjoying a picnic dinner on the lawns. Christmas is a time for giving. Please bring along items for donation, such as clothing, toys, soaps and canned food. R15 to R50. 086 100 1278 Lonehill Carols by Candlelight (2 December) With Clayton Stewart and Paul Dalisile singing old fashioned Christmas carols and Duane Rockwell as the MC for the evening, the evening promises to be a successful one. Light refreshments will be on sale as well as stall holders selling Christmas decorations and

cakes. Bring along a picnic basket, blanket and chairs and kick back! R20 to R50. 011 465 9196 Carols on The Square 2012 (2 December) Gather around the Squares giant African Baobab Tree for this festive seasons Christmas carol event. Join in as Claire Johnston and Mango Groove, the Joburg Festival Orchestra, Mzansi Youth Choir and the Symphony Choir of Johannesburg, bring Nelson Mandela Square alive with their rousing performances of all the much-loved seasonal tunes! The event takes place from 17.00 to 19.15. Entrance is free. 011 217 6001

Carols by Candlelight at The Zoo (5 December) Share in the magic of the festive season with an evening of African carols with Kaya FM, Spar, and the Johannesburg Zoo. Listeners will have the opportunity to sing along with leading South African Artists like Bryce Anderson, Afrotraction, Maleh, Martin PK, Thabo Mdluli, Jaziel Brothers, Nonthende, Zarcia, Liquid Deep, MXO, Karabo, Tsoakae and Diepsloot combined school Choir. Candles will be on sale, all proceeds will be donated to Duduza Relief Fund. Santa will be there handing out treats and loads of kiddies entertainment is on offer. Doors open at 17:00. R36 to R58. 011 634 9581 Lipizzaner Carols by Candlelight (5 - 23 December) A wonderful outing for the whole family. The magnificent white Lipizzaner stallions will be performing to classical music and Christmas music, incorporating Christmas Carols with the Welsh Male Voice Choir of South Africa to ring in the festive season. R130 per person. 011 468 2718 Garden of Lights at Emperors Palace (6 December onwards) A true spectacle to be seen, the Emperors Palace Garden of Lights is a light show on steroids with fake snow, a visit from Santa Claus and the most jaw-dropping Christmas lighting! R10 parking per vehicle. 011 928 1000 Hobart Grove Centres Christmas Market (6 and 7 December) For the perfect event for friends and family to come together, why not pay Hobart Grove Centres Christmas Market a visit on 6 and 7 December? Look for those perfect stocking fillers and special gifts for loved ones from the gift stalls on display, and enjoy delicious Christmas festivity treats. This is a Christmas market for everyone to enjoy, shop, and get together, and best of all, there is NO entrance fee, its FREE (to browse, that is)! 011 267 5700 Carols at Garden World (7 December) (BONUS event) Garden World brings the cheer this year with a fantastic line-up of artists and carolling set against the picturesque Garden World out in Muldersdrift. Featuring the NG Weltevreden Church Choir, Angelica Tee, Michelle Van Staden, Linda Killian, Bianca

Pienaar and Antonie Prinsloo. Free entrance. 011 957 2545 Montecasino Festivo (7th December onwards) Montecasino will be celebrating Festivo this year with Fun, Laughs, and Good Times. Catch Santa and his Elves, festive carollers, and great entertainment throughout the month of December from 7 December. You can have your photo taken with Santa at the Santa Workshop, or take the entire family to the Montecasino Bird Gardens. The Outdoor Piazza will have a variety of entertainment for the entire family which will include Planet Bungee, a waterball system, Zorb Balls, and Pony rides. Each activity has a small fee starting from R25 per ride and will be open each weekend. 011 510 7000 A bizzR Midsummer Nights Dream Christmas Market (8 December) Are you a bit of a Shakespearian fan? Then dress up in your knights armour, rescue your fair maiden, and pay the Midsummer Nights Dream Christmas Market a visit on 8 December. Entry is R20 if you are in modern day clothing, and R10 if you come dressed to theme. Enjoy a great shopping experience with the many stalls on display, themed demonstrative demos, unicorn rides for the little ones, and prizes for the best dressed. 011 468 1467 Christmas with Richard Cock Christmas Concert (8 And 9 December) A choral Christmas Concert for the whole family with full orchestra. The Symphony Choir of Johannesburg and soloists with the Johannesburg Festival orchestra will be conducted by Richard Cock. R130 per person. 083 915 8000 Family Fun Christmas Market at Croc City (9 December) Fun Day out for the entire family at the stunning Croc City Crocodile Park which includes the usual Crocs and snakes not to mention a jumping castle, face painter, carnival entertainment and of course the Christmas Market stalls. R25 to R50 per person. 083 657 7561 Lighting up Benoni (15 December) Fun and games for the whole family featuring the Santa on Safari Pantomime, Santas arrival with presents for the children as well as sing-a-long Christmas carols. Food stalls, fire limbo and face painting will also be on offer. Free entrance. +27 11 427 1801 Carols by Candlelight (20 December) Treat your family to this traditional family occasion in aid of children in our area who are disabled, disadvantaged and sick in hospital at this special time of the year. The event takes place from 18:00 21:00. Entrance is free but carollers are encouraged to please bring along a small gift for a child and place it next to Baby Jesus Manger at the charming Nativity Scene on the banks of the Vaal River. 016 982 2951 Carols in the Paddocks (30 November)

Join the Society For Animals In Distress for a night of festive fun at the Carols In The Paddocks event. Pack a picnic basket, or order one of the pre-packed ones on offer, and take the family along for a fantastic carols evening from 18:00 21:30. Little ones will also get the opportunity to meet Father Christmas on the night! (Please note: concert has been postponed to 30 November). R10 to R20. 078 458 9143 Carols and Moonlight Market in Kyalami (30 November) Come join the Christmas cheer under the stars at the Moonlight Market and Carols by Candlelight on 30 November. This Christmas market is the ideal chance to get some Christmas shopping and gift browsing done, along with making a difference by supporting a good cause this festive season. Enjoy stalls, food, see the garden of lights, classical carols, and picnic on the Piazza. Every candle bought or carnival ride that your kids enjoy will help to raise funds for Botshabelo, a place that takes care of orphaned or abandoned children. Free. 082 551 3322 New Years Eve Sky Lanterns (31 December) Celebrate the New Year with the Nan Hua Buddhist Temple who will host a lantern ceremony at 22h00 and then letting fireworks off at midnight. Free. 013 931 0009

DON'T BE A FOSSIL - VENUES, HOLIDAY PROGRAMMES AND LOADS OF ACTIVITIES

School holidays are just around the corner, and we all know what that means... kids are at home with nothing to do, and the whining and moaning begins. Mom, Im bored being one of the most popular whines surely will drive one crazy. So, just in time, we have found places to go, holiday camps, and clubs for your kids during the holidays just so we can keep your sanity.

Camps and holiday programmes

One10 Kids Club (chill lounge for tweens and teens) Somewhere trendy for your tween or teen to hangout over the holidays and make friends, One10 Kids Club gives your kid a weekday hangout lounge to chill and socialise. Parents can stay for tea and cake before having to rush off to do that dreaded Christmas shopping. Kids can enjoy playing table tennis, magazines, and snack on popcorn and smoothies, or join book club. 082 377 7159 Ladybird Holiday Programs

Be it parenting, cooking and baking, life skills, yoga or arts and crafts, join the Ladybird Corner and take part in a variety of activities for mom and kids to enjoy and spend some quality time together. From baby massage groups, mom and babe yoga groups to baking with the tots. 011 485 3057 Kinderspiel Kinder Theatre Holiday Program Take the kids to the Kinder theatre these school holidays for fun and crafting. With magic shows, hand puppet shows, make a place mat and gift ideas for mom and dad, kids from the age of 8 can laugh, learn and be entertained on 6, 10, 11 and 13 December. Cost per person is R50, expect on 10 December, where it costs R40. 011 646 0870/011 646 7457 Pony camp at Chikana If your child is fascinated by horses, Pony Camp at Chikara is a day camp where children can enjoy camp activities such as treasure hunts, lessons and rides. This is the place where pony loving children can immerse themselves in the world of horses. Children from the age of 5 years can come enjoy the Pont Camp, and children over the age of 11 can sleepover at the pony camp. The cost is R300 for the day and R650 for a sleepover. 082 895 7738 Holiday Cricket School Is your child dreaming of being the next Graeme Smith, or just in love with sports, and cricket in particular? During 10 to 13 December at the University of Johannesburg, there is holiday cricket school for thriving cricket players from 09:00 to 14:00. Kids will learn from a broad coverage of cricket topics, from general knowledge to playing etiquette. 021 671 9460 or 084 249 9969 Wild Kids Holiday fun Bring your young one (aimed between 3 and 6 years old) to Wild Kids for some outdoor physical fun and to take part in their developmental programme to develop necessary skills and experience the wild instead of sitting indoors this holiday. Kids must arrive in comfortable clothes that can get dirty and suitable climbing shoes. It cost R300 per child per month, or R75 per session. Open Tuesdays and Thursdays from 15:30 to 16:30. 083 457 4106 and 082 379 2675

Venues and Malls

LaserMaxx LaserMaxx, a brand new and exciting laser tag arena in Stoneridge, is perfect for kiddies parties and holiday fun. Adventure loving kids will love the futuristic lights and sounds as they make their way through a fluorescent maze of pathways. 082 651 4016

LAZER ZONE at Carnival City The new Laser Zone opening in time for the school holidays replacing the Magic Companys jungle area will keep kids entertained, and run off all their energy in this activity full of action. Kids will be equipped with laser guns and vest in a darkened maze, and can literally play army combat with their siblings and friends. When each player gets shot, the vest will be illuminated by laser light. 011 898 7253 Morningside Shopping Centres Holiday Festival On 1 December, between 10:00 and 14:00, take the kids down o Morningside Shopping Centre for a Holiday Festival. With lots of arts and crafts, stocking filler hunts and an interactive workshop about how toys can be used for your childs development and giveaways, this is the place to be for entertainment for the whole family. 087 940 3817 Christmas at Killarney mall Drop kids off to make crafts Join Killarney Mall in getting into the holiday spirit and celebrate, eat, do some Christmas shopping, and let the kids enjoy some holiday fun at the Cinema court with arts and crafts activities, face painting, cookie decorating, card making and much more from 8 to 16 December between 10:00 and 16:00 daily. 011 646 4657 Christmas Wonderland at Sandton City From 7 to 22 December, take a trip down to Sandton Citys Fountain Court and enjoy a Christmas wonderland. For the kids, Dora, Boots and Diego will be performing shows for kids to enjoy and join in with all the fun while mom has the Christmas gifts wrapped at the gift wrapping kiosk where all donations will be donated to Reach For a Dream. Kids can meet and have photos taken with Santa Claus, ride around Sandton City on an electric train. 011 883 0978 Emerald Aqua Splash 15 to 31 Dec kids holiday program For some holiday fun over the holidays, kids can visit Emerald Casino and Resorts Aquadome for some fun summer activities to keep them entertained during the summer holidays. The Aquadomes Holiday Programme will has plenty of daily activities from 15 to 31 December, such as volley ball, face painting, sack races, tug o war, and there are prizes to be won. 016 982 8000 Clearwater Mall Christmas entertainment Little ones can have their photos taken with Santa, older kids can take part in the Lego building challenge, or watch the city fire show. 011 288 5260

Educational and Outdoors

Kids Holiday Programme at Domestic Bliss For boys and girls between the ages of 7 and 13 years of age, Domestic Bliss is holiday a programme for holiday fun, which includes kids cooking, pet care, fun first aid, environmental care, how to be a junior ranger, and a visit to the zoo. At the end of the fun day programme, kids will receive a certificate, and throughout the programme, the use of equipment, cool drinks and snacks will be provided. 011 447 5517 Great wonders and mysteries Take the kids on a holiday programme where they take a journey around the world, and stopping at all the great wonders on your planet. From the Eiffel Tower, to the Berlin wall, kids will visit and learn about the wonders in Asia, America, Africa, Australia and Antarctica. Kids between the ages of 2 and 6 years old may partake in the holiday programme, at a cost of R650. 011 467 0230 Frogs at night For a fun night activity, kids will be searching for frogs and tadpoles. To enjoy the night time air, bring a picnic, a torch or two and even a rain coat, and enjoy the hunt for our amphibian friends. Adults cost R50, and children cost R25. Booking is essential. 011 674 2980 or 079 693 5608 Run of the Roses on 2 December, join in on a fun run which sees guests of Ludwigs Roses running a 3km (1 12 years R41, or 13-80 year olds R46) or 8km (R68.40) eco-run. There are awesome goodie bags up for grabs for the first 500 pre-entries, and medals for the first 600 finishers. Enter online before 28 November. 082 954 9629 Random Harvest Indigenous Nursery Join Random Harvest in their December activities for kids. Spot the early birds out in the garden with Geoff Lockwood and have a morning look into the lives of birds. Join in on a garden safari to discover all the bugs, birds and animals that live in the gardens, armed with binoculars, and magnifying glasses. Just in time for the Christmas season, kids can make their own card and Christmas wrap creations for presents, or join in on beginners mosaic workshops. 082 553 0598 Walter Sisulu National Botanical Gardens Parents and children, take a visit to the gardens and go on a nocturnal adventure in search of frogs and toads on 8 December starting at 18:00. The cost is R15 per child, and R30 per adult. Or if you are not a big fan of things that hop and crawl, take a pair of binoculars and visit on 15 December at 6am to go bird spotting. The cost is R15 per child

and R30 per adult. Book to avoid disappointment. 086 100 1278 Gerber Gear Mud Run (8th December) On 8 December, take part in a trail run obstacle course and have fun and get all dirty! Take part in either the 12km (18 years and older), the 5km (12 years and older) or 2km (4-12 years of age) trails. With unique obstacles like the Zombie Apocalypse, Freefall, and The Pit, you are guaranteed to entertain you and get you down right filthy as there is a lot of mud. The cost is R220 per person. 011 367 0661 Montecasino Bird Gardens School Holiday Programme Montecasino Bird gardens has various offerings like craft club and surviving the bush and dancing cranes and frog friends. Kids can enjoy many activities including the bird show, tours and loads of fun games and crafts. The cost is R120 per child per day, and the cost includes a morning snack. Booking is essential as there is limited space. 011 511 1864 My Suite Hyatt (first Sunday of every month) Relax in their NdaU Lounge or on the Terrace and enjoy your afternoon High Tea whilst your kids (ages 6 to 12) enjoy a learning afternoon of culinary skills, table settings, table etiquette, serving and so much more. 011 280 1234 Lory Park Zoo (2 December) The zoo is hosting an interactive and educational Race Against Extinction event, which focuses on the plight of tigers in the wild. This full day event will allow the kids to engage with spotted owls, bottle feed white lion cubs and meet Ruby the red tail boa. 011 315 7307 Super Science at Sci-bono Enjoy Sci-Bonos Holiday programme with science shows and interactive workshops. With R20 entrance fee for adults and R10 entrance fee for children, learn about different sources for clean energy, explore scientific and technological innovations and learn how to use energy wisely at home. 011 639 8400

Check out our Kids Archive Everything kids in Joburg!

Where to go

Lemon Thyme Farm is a fantastic venue for both mom and kids! Enjoy an afternoon of fabulous food in the gardens, while the kids get stuck into making pizza, planting

flowers, sand art and more! 011 801 4960 Douglasdale Dairy tours occur daily and are a delight for the young ones! They can learn all about the produce they consume every day, feed calves and enjoy a tranquil picnic under the trees. 011 549 0411 Friendly Pets Farmyard is a charming little spot where the young ones can run and play on playgrounds and trampolines, as well as learn how to interact with animals before settling down to a sunny picnic! 011 792 9096

Places to Go

Mystic Monkeys and Feathers Wild Animal Park has some interesting inhabitants including White Lions, Bengal Tigers, Cheetah and over forty species of primate. You may even be able to play with cubs! 012 723 0315 While its not quite peach picking season, Camdeboo Farm is open year round for picking vegetables and herbs! Take your kids out for some fresh air, grab a cuppa from the Peach Caf while you are there, and come home to make a nice hot soup from what theyve picked! 073 410 2712 Spend a night camping or opt for a day trip either way, the Frogs Trail near Cullinan is a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts. 086 152 2262 Rustig Resort near Hekpoort is unbeatable for days away there is a swimming pool, braai facilities, stunning views, Boer War shelters and walking trails. 087 940 1903 Head to the 50th floor of the Carlton Centre for a Picnic in the Sky. Panoramic views and delectable food from Market on Main what more could you ask for? 079 567 0997 Trees Eco Fun Park let the kids climb trees, crawl through tunnels, play in a sandpit and get dirty! Its also a lovely little spot for a picnic. 082 458 1504 Experience travelling by mini steam train! The Rand Society of Model Engineers offers open days on the first and third Sunday of each month. 011 763 6813 Book a tour at The Ann van Dyk Cheetah Centre - a rare opportunity to interact with, and learn about these magnificent creatures. 012 504 9906

What could be more astounding than walking trunk-in-hand with an elephant? Elephant Sanctuary in Hartebeespoort can make that dream come true. 012 258 0423 Take a tour of the factory and learn some interesting facts about everybodys favourite dairy product at Van Gaalens Kaasmakerij. 012 207 1289 Rietvlei Farm and Lifestyle Centre is the perfect place to do a spot of mountain biking, fishing or picnic with the family. 011 024 1512/4 Sandboard down mine dumps with Pure Rush Industries. This is guaranteed to get the adrenaline pumping! 011 918 2379 Learn to ride horses at Aragon Stables, where riders from five upwards are taught in a fun, friendly and safe environment. 082 666 3728 Footloose Trout Farm is a 10 hectare farm in Fourways where you can try your hand at fly-fishing or conventional fishing. 011 464 5264 Avalanche is a fun-for-all ski slope in the middle of Fourways. Open daily from 7am till late, the kids can enjoy a variety of activities from Skiing and Snowboarding to Bumboarding and Tubing on the 65 metre ski slope. 011 467 2426 Take in fresh air, tranquil scenery, enjoy a picnic or take a train ride around the Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden. 086 100 1278 Joyride Family Funpark is an unbelievable playground for adults (and any kids over the age of 9) who fancy a bit of a Top Gear experience! 083 447 9606 Monaghan Farm near Lanseria is a must-visit for family picnics. Order a pizza that uses ingredients grown on the farm before taking a stroll along the river bank. 082 0707500 Meet some feathered and colourful friends when you visit the Florence Bloom Bird Sanctuary. Over the years birds, reptiles and mammals such as eagle, mongoose and rinkhals have been spotted here. 011 888 4831 With water slides, an Olympic-sized pool, braai facilities and a place to picnic, the Pines Resort offers a relaxing day away from the buzz of the city. 011 955 3845

Places to Leave Kids

Obstacle courses and treasure hunts are just some of the activities available at In The Forest. 076 035 4038 Learn to ride a horse, groom ponies, play games and tuck into delicious eats at the pony camp at Shepherds Fold Stables. 084 220 2657 Experience the latest choreography and dance techniques from world champions in hiphop and breakdance at the Kim Field Dance Academy. 011 465 1801 Kings Camps Keep them busy for a week, including cricket and soccer, to craftmaking! All ages welcome. 010 500 1011 Kidz Fishing Camp is an incredibly cool getaway for kids who love nature. 083 610 2911 Kids Village Day Camp is perfect for parents who are working through the holidays they will keep your kids fully occupied from 7.30am - 5.30pm. 082 551 8078 Chartwell Stables Childrens Riding School will have your kids saddled up, riding and enjoying the outdoors. 011 708 1187

Getting Creative

Art Jammings holiday programme includes arts and crafts projects such as card making, pet rocks, stencils, new sponge techniques and much more. Highly recommended. 011 786 0599 Smudge Art Centre is ideal for kids who want to be the next Rembrandt or play dressup. The cappuccinos and food are good too! 011 501 0234 Make a fluffy friend for life at your nearest Build-a-Bear workshop. 086 112 3277 Color Caf gives parents and kids a chance to create take-home works of art under the watchful eye of helpful staff. 011 341 0734

Scrapbook Den offers classes, kits and guidance for kids (or adults) who want to try scrapbooking. 011 453 2724 The Kiddies Craft Club at Craft@Fourways offers holiday fun as kids are kept busy with mosaics and ceramics. 011 467 5694 Bizzi-Bea in Alberton not only hosts craft lessons for the kids but also sells lovely timeconsuming figurines, complete with paint brushes and paint for hours of fun. 011 867 6936

Places to let their Hair Down

Acrobranch great outdoor fun swinging through the trees for all ages! Pack a picnic youll want to stay the whole day! 078 438 7463 At Kidz Traffic-land children learn road safety and traffic awareness whilst moms enjoy refreshments. 073 329 8510 New on the scene, Bush Paintball at Tatz Junction has fields designed to suit all types, from beginners to experienced players. Test your stalking and bushcraft skills in a safe environment. 084 911 1906/7 Gold Reef City Theme Park and 4D movies are always a hit, and with the weather getting cooler but still sunny, this is the perfect time of the year. 011 248 6896 Xtracks Offroad Karting will win you big points with the boys (and tomboys) in the family. 079 125 8080 Anyone with a love of the outdoors and a sense of adventure will enjoy the thrill of the Survive or Race programmes. Compete against other tribes, create war cries and navigate a series of obstacles. 082 895 2513 Go-kart racing at Compu-Kart Raceway (011 609 0076) or Randburg Raceway and satisfy your need for speed! 011 792 2260 Let the kids climb the walls (literally!) at Wonder Wall Climbing. Highly recommended. 011 708 6467

Extreme play with a Slip & Slide, Rope Walk, Crazy Ladder sand and loads more at JoziX. 082 456 2358 Get them running for cover with Paintballing at Battlezone in Bryanston - loads of courses to choose from. 086 146 8242 Great for small groups, Honeydew A-maize-ing Mazes has an array of incredible mazes that the kids can navigate together or in a race. The Maize Maze this year is themed The World Under Our Feet. Kids can walk the maze and learn all about the mysteries of the underground. 073 795 2174 With swings, slides, a jumping castle, a dam stocked with fish and bicycle track (complete with traffic signs), Shady Pines makes for an incredibly enjoyable day out. 083 300 1638 Brightwater Commons - play Adventure Golf or skate the ramps with Boogaloos with many cappuccino sources nearby. 011 789 5052

Interesting and Creative Stuff

Learn about dinosaurs, distant lands or space travel at the enjoyable and informative Fastrackids holiday workshops. 011 315 4503 Bush Babies Monkey Sanctuary gives a home to orphaned and abused animals, and is a perfect venue to introduce children to wildlife and teach them about the importance of conservation. 012 258 9908 Bester Birds and Animals Zoo Park - kids are given two bowls of food and are supervised and coached on how to feed the animals whilst sitting amongst bunnies, guinea pigs and chicks or ducks. 082 807 4192 Creative gardening lessons with Little Green Fingers reintroduces children to nature in a fun and educational manner. 082 443 2538 Predator World offers guided horse rides (non-predatorial horses) and entrance into Sun City. 014 552 6900 This ones for the boys and the history buffs - The South African National Museum of Military History boasts more than 44,000 display items! 011 646 5513

Marvel at the beauty of nature - visit the Butterfly Garden at Ludwigs Roses. The perfect excuse for fairy dresses and tiaras! Watch the most beautiful butterflies emerge from cocoons! 012 544 0144 Wildcaves- explore caves and learn about the environment. The perfect excuse for Indiana Jones dress-up! 082 486 2464 Croc City Crocodile Farm is home to tarantulas, pythons and of course, crocodiles. This is a brilliant venue for educational entertainment. 083 657 7561 The Lion Park houses members of the big cat family and gives visitors a chance to see these magnificent animals up close. 011 691 9905 Fun Foodies offers children the opportunity to learn about nutrition and healthy eating, whilst developing fine motor skills. 082 214 5271 The little ones will delight in the story-telling sessions that take place at Love Books each Saturday. 011 726 7408

Family Friendly Venues

Feastt is a wonderful restaurant with a fabulous playground perfect for whiling away the afternoon with smiles all round. 011 447 8001 Lemon Rose Farm - a perfectly sublime slice of nature without having to leave Joburg a country restaurant, farmyard, toy shop, activity studio and more. 011 794 2731 Fahrenheit offers great food (try the seafood) and a safe and secure play area for the kids. 011 452 9704/6 Goblins Cove Fantasy Restaurant is a haven for young imaginations and is a delight for the rest of the family too. Pure magic. 014 576 2143 If youre looking for an afternoon of great pizza and child-centred surroundings, Papachinos is perfect. 011 467 4460

Zoo Lake Sports Club boasts a brand new playground area with myriad of jungle gyms, swings and slides, not to mention a trampoline and lots more. 011 646 3440 OrangoTangos offers decent meals for parents and hours of fun for kids. With jungle gyms, bumper cars, indoor soccer and a play area for the very little ones, they should be on your list of places to try out. 078 526 9887 Kids of all ages (and adults, in fact) just cant get enough of the gourmet milkshakes at Exquizitly Yours in Parkhurst! 011 447 0908 The baked treats at Annicas Designer Cakes and Coffee Shop will satisfy anyone with a sweet tooth while the kids play outside! 011 326 1526 Visit a fully functioning dairy farm, let the kids play on the tractor and feed the cows while you enjoy a meal at Irene Dairy Farm. 012 667 2326 Manna Caf makes out-of-this-world dishes and has an outdoor play area. Great for mom, great for kids! 011 465 4326 Triba is a parental oasis in Craighall Park. They have everything from child- friendly conference venues to play rooms and yummy food. 011 501 4740 Tres Jolie - a great outdoor restaurant with good food and huge grounds, jungle gyms and farm animals perfect for a really lovely day out. 011 794 2473 Leave the kids to clamber and climb at Yeesh! - a fabulous indoor playground and soccer area. 011 463 5847 Dress up, painting and both indoor and outdoor play - all magical activities on offer at Serendipity. 011 447 7386 One of our favourites - Grannies Garden is sure to keep any child busy and happy. 011 326 4265 Jimmy Jungles is a premier Indoor Adventure Playground which guarantees your children excitement and something a little different. The venue is supervised with secure facilities for toddlers and children aged from 6 months. 082 610 2442 Bambinos Indoor Playzone and Coffee Bar has a fabulous deal for parents on a budget R40 per child for two hours of play time. 079 182 4060

Kids will spend hours happily playing at Hedgehog Lane. They have a mini ferris-wheel, merry-go-round, Hedgehog Express Train and much more. 011 463 8692 Drakes Farmyard provides the perfect excuse to get out of the house grab a picnic basket or meet some friends for tea! 082 883 7329