By Levy Masiteng
In South Africa, Christmas Day is a vibrant blend of culture, faith, family, and food. While December heat replaces winter snow, the spirit of togetherness shines just as brightly.
Many families travel long distances to reunite. Homes fill with laughter and music, churches overflow with joyful praise, and the aroma of a hearty Christmas lunch—seven colours—drifts through neighbourhoods.
We caught up with three South Africans who shared their unique Christmas family traditions.
For 29-year-old administrator Lesego Mothole, Christmas means returning home to Ga-Sekhukhune in Limpopo. It is the one time of year when the entire family gathers from different places.
She said the day begins with a meaningful visit to their grandparents and nearby graveyards to clean the graves—an important tradition that honours their roots.
“After that, it’s all about togetherness. We cook an amazing lunch, listen to music, watch kids proudly show off their new clothes, take pictures, and laugh at old childhood stories told by our parents,” she said.
For Lesego, reuniting with cousins and extended family is what makes Christmas truly special.
Sello Ratshepo’s Christmas looks a little different but is just as meaningful. Having never experienced a traditional family-oriented upbringing, he found a sense of home in church.
“I attend church services, enjoy gospel music, and share a peaceful lunch with my church family. It’s my happy place—where I feel at home and at peace,” he said.
The 27-year-old spaza shop owner said that over the years, this has become his own family tradition—a space of belonging, celebration, and spiritual connection.
Meanwhile, 36-year-old teacher Koketso Chauke continues a family tradition with her children.
Having grown up in a close-knit family, she has carried those values into adulthood with her own three children.
Every Christmas, they travel to Mpumalanga to her parents’ home. What makes their celebration unique is their gift tradition, with family members sharing wish lists as early as June.
The day includes preparing lunch, exchanging gifts, and—most importantly—taking turns to reflect on what they are grateful for, celebrating achievements and acknowledging challenges overcome.
“We visit my parents in Mpumalanga, exchange gifts, and share what we’re grateful for each year. It’s a reminder of the importance of family and appreciating life’s blessings,” Koketso said.
For her, Christmas Day is a beautiful reminder of love, gratitude, and the importance of family.
These heartwarming traditions reflect the true spirit of Christmas in South Africa—love, gratitude, and togetherness.
What’s your Christmas tradition? Do you have a special way of celebrating the festive season with your loved ones? Share it with us.
INSIDE POLITICS