Gateway Theatre of Shopping is gearing up for a season filled with imagination, sparkle and togetherness as it transforms into KwaZulu-Natal’s ultimate festive playground. From 12 December 2025 to 5 January 2026, visitors can look forward to a unique LEGO® F1® experience, dazzling décor, the high-energy Unity Battle Fest dance competition, a special appearance by SpongeBob SquarePants, meaningful charity initiatives and a full line-up of entertainment for all ages.
This year’s headline attraction is the LEGO® Mercedes-AMG F1 W14 performance activation, a South African first. Previously seen by international audiences in Singapore, this high-energy installation invites visitors to design and build their own race cars at specialised build stations before testing them on a precision-timed ramp complete with digital leaderboards. A reflex challenge adds to the excitement, allowing participants to measure their reaction times just like professional drivers. Exclusive LEGO® products will also be available for purchase, making the experience even more enticing for families and collectors alike.
At the heart of the activation is a breathtaking, life-size LEGO® Technic Mercedes-AMG F1 W14 E Performance car, the largest LEGO® build ever showcased in South Africa. Constructed from 192,937 LEGO® bricks, the model spans an impressive 5.1 metres in length and 2.2 metres in width, weighing more than 900 kilograms. Its sleek aerodynamic form and meticulous detailing mirror the precision of the real F1 car, offering visitors an unforgettable photo moment and a close-up look at the remarkable fusion of art, engineering and play.
On Saturday 13 and Sunday 14 December, Gateway will host the Unity Battle Fest, an electrifying dance competition taking place in the Atrium (near Entrance 5, Parkade B, ground floor). Durban’s top dancers will go head-to-head across a variety of genres, from high-impact street styles to expressive contemporary pieces. Spectators can expect a vibrant weekend of live music, top DJs and standout performances that keep the atmosphere buzzing from beginning to end.
Open to dancers of all skill levels, the festival celebrates creativity, movement and community. This year introduces a new professional development division, offering free workshops for disadvantaged and disabled dancers and reinforcing the event’s commitment to inclusivity. Entry is free for spectators, and the public is encouraged to come out, support the competitors and enjoy a weekend of home-grown talent at Gateway in Umhlanga. Full entry details will be shared soon on the mall’s website and social media platforms.
SpongeBob SquarePants will make a stop on his South African tour as part of the celebrations for his new film “The SpongeBob Movie: Search for SquarePants”. Families will have the chance to meet the famous sea sponge during a special meet and greet on Friday 19 December from 3 to 6pm, in the Gateway food court, adding a bubbly touch to the holiday season.
This festive season, Gateway is continuing its enduring support for Reach for a Dream, turning generosity into holiday magic once again. From 1 to 24 December, the organisation will run Gateway’s gifting concierge service, wrapping shoppers’ presents in exchange for donations that help fulfil the dreams of children with life-threatening illnesses. Building on last year’s success, which raised over R350,000, Gateway hopes to set an even higher record in 2025.
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Visitors can also stop by the enchanting Disney Giant Gift Box installation in the Expo Explore area, on display until 5 January. For a R50 donation, shoppers can pledge their support to Reach for a Dream, with all Disney plush toys from the display later delivered to children in hospitals.
In partnership with Cars on Sunday and Autoemotive, Gateway will host a Charity Car Run on Sunday, 7 December, from 9 AM to 11 AM. Held near Autoemotive (Parkade B, Level P2), the event will showcase 40 to 50 high-end vehicles from across KwaZulu-Natal, creating an unforgettable experience for visitors and car enthusiasts. Reach for a Dream will host 20 children on the day, each choosing their favourite supercar for a dream drive around Gateway with their families, a heartfelt highlight of the holiday season.
Gateway’s recent refurbishment has introduced a refreshed aesthetic throughout the centre, especially in the Great Hall and northern areas. The iconic fountain has been upgraded with six colour-changing lights and programmable sequences, creating an ideal festive photo spot. Shoppers can also enjoy extended trading hours, new store openings and a variety of seasonal activities, including live East Coast Radio broadcasts with Danny Guselli on 12 and 19 December.
“Gateway has always been about creating experiences that bring people together, and this festive season we’re taking that to the next level,” says Gateway’s Marketing Manager, Ayesha Sewbaran. “From the excitement of LEGO® and capturing memories with Santa at Entrance 2 (near Sorbet), to the Unity Battle Fest and the centre’s new look, this summer promises to be truly unforgettable. Gateway really is your festive playground.”
For more information about Gateway, its stores, experiences and promotions, visit www.gatewayworld.co.za or follow the centre on social media: https://www.instagram.com/gatewayumhlanga/.
