South African celebrities reflect on family, traditions, and new beginnings this festive season

As 2025 draws to a close, South Africa’s beloved local celebrities are reflecting on the year gone by and sharing their plans for Christmas and the New Year. 

Many have shared about the joy of family, the warmth of festive traditions, and the lessons learnt over a year filled with both challenges and triumphs.

For Ntsika Ngxanga, a member of the a cappella band The Soil, Christmas is all about slowing down and being with family. 

“We’ll be at home, cooking a lot of food, sharing stories, laughing, and simply enjoying each other’s presence around the table,” he shared.

“Our biggest tradition is cooking together as a family. Everyone plays a role, from preparing the meals to setting the table, and the day naturally becomes about connection, conversation, and togetherness over food.”

Looking ahead to the New Year, Ngxanga plans a quiet reflection in the KZN midlands with family. “I’m deeply thankful for the lessons learnt this year, the strength to keep going, and for the new projects ahead. My sophomore album is more than just music; it’s a historic moment I get to share with the world,” he says, reflecting on the year. 

Music star Liyema Pantsi also emphasised slowing down and cherishing family time. 

Speaking about her favourite traditions Pantsi said,“One of my favourite traditions is looking for the mgidis and sharing biscuits with my family. It’s such a small thing, but it carries so much meaning for us. Those moments of sharing, storytelling, and being present together are what really make the season feel special.”

For the New Year, she says looks forward to a fresh start in a new home, welcoming new energy and possibilities.

Grammy-nominated a cappella group Just 6 described their festive season as a blend of family time and music. 

“After a busy year on the road, we cherish the chance to slow down and reconnect with the people who keep us grounded,” they said. 

The group says food, laughter, and shared stories are central to their celebrations. “The New Year is a reflective moment for us, to celebrate our wins and dream about what’s next. We’re grateful for the journey, the lessons, and for representing South African vocal music on global stages.”

Actor, musician, and writer Rory Booth has a busy festive season ahead as he currently plays the lead role in the pantomime   Sinbad, the Sailor at the Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre in Durban.  

While he will be onstage throughout the festive season, Booth says he will have a few days between Christmas and New Year to catch up with his family as they are all busy and don't get to spend much time with each other during the year.

 “We're having a Christmas Eve dinner this year because everyone has plans on Christmas Day. I have three brothers, and we're all banding together and cooking up a storm. We're all very good cooks,” he said. 

Booth says it's also a time for him to “reflect in gratitude” on the year that's passed and to celebrate all the highs. 

Jazz musician Linda Sikhakhane will be spending Christmas with his family at their home in Ulundi in northern KwaZulu-Natal. 

It’s been a busy year for the saxophonist who is preparing to release a new album in 2026. 

“I'm trying to put in a lot of work just to prepare for next year. But I have Christmas Day, and like five days of  just being away from the city and spending time with family.” Sikhakhane laughs when asked about a new year’s resolution. “The future is unpredictable, but one tries,” he says. 

Langa Mavuso is planning a short escape to a resort with family.

“I will be with family and at a resort, enjoying some time off for two days with my nephews and cousins. Somewhere near the ocean with a bottle of bubbles. I’m grateful for the incredible work I’ve achieved with all the collaborators and partners with all we’ve achieved and also for putting out an amazing album.”

While Lloyd Cele says he will start Christmas with church, followed by performances and a family lunch.

“We open gifts on Christmas Eve because the 25th is often busy with church and gigs,” he shared. 

Reflecting on the year and hope of the coming year, he said, “I’ve also just released a new single, ‘Legends’, and have more music lined up next year. I see my role as an artist as spreading joy and hope.”

Actor Thapelo Mokoena described his Christmas as a family-centred journey, travelling between provinces to spend time with loved ones. For the New Year, he looks forward to a tranquil getaway. 

“I am grateful for the year I’ve had; at the same time, I’m happy to let 2025 rest. It was a year of many challenges & triumphs at the same time. I cannot wait to take on the new year & its plans for us,” he said, reflecting on the year. 

Lebo Lion spoke about spending Christmas with family and friends, emphasising the value of relationships after a challenging year. 

“My family and I connect through food. So every December holiday we come together and cook for the homeless. It’s a tradition that fills me with so much joy and reminds me to be grateful for the life that God has blessed me with.”

“Every December we come together to cook for the homeless. It’s a tradition that fills me with joy and reminds me to be grateful,” she said. 

For New Year’s Eve, Lion revealed that she enjoys solitude and reflection, grounding herself for the year ahead with prayer.

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Saturday Star