Stars off‑screen: From braais to sunrise walks, a look at the simple, heart‑warming Christmas moments celebrities cherish

AS DECEMBER slips into its final week, the country’s festive spirit is louder than any studio set. With the nation winding down for the holidays, the usual red‑carpet buzz gives way to the comforting clatter of plates, the smell of braai smoke and the soft glow of Christmas lights. We caught up with five of South Africa’s favourite personalities to find out how they’re spending the most wonderful time of the year.

Jonathan Boynton‑Lee

TV personality and filmmaker

"Christmas is always the same. 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 at my sister’s house.”

For Jonathan, the magic is in the consistency. The day begins with his mum’s signature mince pies, a ritual that instantly transports him back to childhood. After the present‑opening frenzy, the family reconvenes at his sister’s home for a relaxed lunch.

“It’s all about simplicity and connection,” he says, proving that the best celebrations are the ones that stay the same."

Nomuzi ‘Moozlie’ Mabena

Rapper and media personality

“Christmas for me is all about slowing down and being present… I use this time to rest, reflect on the year that’s been, and reset for what’s ahead.”

Moozlie treats the holidays like a reset button. She swaps studio sessions for shared meals, laughter and quiet moments that remind her what truly matters. “Christmas reminds me to lead with love, kindness, and appreciation,” she explains, embracing the season as a chance to recharge and set intentions for 2026.

Martin Bester

Jacaranda FM breakfast host

“Christmas, for me, is all about catching up… catching up on sleep, but also catching up with family and friends.”

The beloved radio host is heading to the Eastern Cape to trade his morning mic for a Karoo table. “We’ll be making a big Christmas table in the Karoo,” he laughs. Martin looks forward to recharging his batteries, breathing in fresh air and reflecting on a stellar year for Breakfast With Martin Bester. “I’m excited to come back with a clear head in 2026,” he adds.

Chad Jones

Content creator and entrepreneur

“Christmas as a content creator and entrepreneur means that you never get leave! However, on Christmas, I make sure that I spend time with my family (and take the opportunity to shoot some videos with them!).”

Even for a hustler who never truly clocks out, Christmas brings a fun twist. Chad’s day revolves around a massive braai, family gatherings and a camera rolling for the perfect holiday content.

“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,” he says, proving that work can wait when the grill is hot."

Bolele Polisa

Radio personality

“Christmas has always been a really special time for my family and me. One of our favourite traditions is waking up just before sunrise on Christmas morning and going outside to watch the sun ‘dance’.”

For Bolele, Christmas is steeped in tradition. The day starts with a pre‑dawn walk to watch the sunrise, a ritual that’s survived from childhood into adulthood. The family then converges at her aunt’s house for a feast of gammon, homemade bread, cornbread, salads and roasted lamb.

“We end the day playing 30 Seconds with the cousins and reflecting on the year that’s been,” she smiles, embodying the true heart of a South African Christmas."