Gateway Theatre of Shopping is setting the scene for imagination, sparkle, and connection as it transforms into KwaZulu-Natal’s ultimate festive playground this holiday season. From 12 December 2025 to 7 January 2026, the centre will host a line-up of entertainment that promises to delight visitors of all ages.
The headline attraction this year is the LEGO® Mercedes-AMG F1 W14 performance activation, a first-of-its-kind in South Africa. The high-energy installation that international travellers may have seen in Singapore will invite shoppers to design and build their own race cars at dedicated build stations, then put them to the test on a precision-timed ramp with digital leaderboards. A reflex challenge will add to the fun, letting participants measure their reaction times just like professional drivers. Exclusive LEGO® merchandise will also be on sale, adding to the excitement for both collectors and families.
The centrepiece of the installation is a life-size LEGO® Technic Mercedes-AMG F1 W14 E Performance car, the largest LEGO® build ever brought to South Africa. Crafted from 192,937 LEGO® bricks, the model measures an impressive 5.1 metres in length and 2.2 metres in width, weighing over 900 kilograms. Its sleek aerodynamic design and meticulous details mirror the precision and craftsmanship of the real Formula One car.
On 13 and 14 December, Gateway will host the Unity Battle Fest, an exciting dance competition taking place in the Atrium (near Entrance 5, Parkade B on the ground floor). Open to dancers of all levels, the festival celebrates movement, creativity and community. New to this year’s line-up is a professional development division offering free workshops for disadvantaged and disabled dancers, underscoring the event’s inclusive spirit. This event will see Durban’s most talented dancers go head-to-head across a range of genres and styles, from high-energy street dance to expressive contemporary performances. Entry is free for spectators, and the public is encouraged to come along, cheer on the competitors and enjoy a weekend of home-grown talent. Spectators can look forward to a weekend packed with live music, top DJs, and standout dance performances.
Gateway continues its long-standing support for Reach for a Dream. Throughout December, the organisation will take over Gateway’s gifting concierge service, wrapping shoppers’ presents in exchange for donations that help fulfil the dreams of children with life-threatening illnesses. The partnership continues the success of last year’s campaign, which raised over R350,000, with Gateway aiming to surpass that milestone in 2025.
At the Expo Explore area, shoppers can also visit the enchanting Disney Giant Gift Box installation, which will be on display until 10 January. For a donation of R50, visitors can make a pledge towards Reach for a Dream, with all Disney plush toys from the display later gifted to children in hospitals.
Gateway, in collaboration with Cars on Sunday and AutoEmotive, will host a Charity Car Run on Sunday, 7 December, between 9am to 11am. This event will be hosted close to AutoEmotive (in Parkade B, level P2) and will feature 40 to 50 high-end cars from across KwaZulu-Natal. Creating an unforgettable spectacle for visitors and car enthusiasts, Reach for a Dream will host 20 children to experience this special morning. Each child will get to choose their favourite supercar and enjoy a dream drive around Gateway together with their families.
The recent refurbishment has brought a refreshed aesthetic to the centre, particularly in the Great Hall and northern areas. The landmark fountain has been revitalised with six colour-changing lights and programmable sequences, creating a perfect festive photo moment. Shoppers can also look forward to extended trading hours, new store openings, and a host of seasonal experiences, including the 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. Between the excitement of LEGO®, the Unity Battle Fest and the new look of the centre, this will be a truly memorable summer for our visitors. Gateway really is your festive playground,” shares Ayesha Sewbaran, Gateway’s Marketing Manager.
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