Jacaranda FM and SPAR 2U have announced that the annual Carols by Candlelight event took place on Thursday, 5 December at the SunBet Arena at Time Square in Pretoria. Thousands gathered for the live performance and families across the globe tuned in online to enjoy the heartwarming concert from the comfort of their homes.
Carols by Candlelight is an event that has brought the magic of Christmas to life for 22 years, says Jacaranda FM and SPAR 2U.
The theme for this year, ‘Home for Christmas’, captured the essence of togetherness, celebrating the joy of coming home and creating new memories through music. The evening featured unique renditions of carols, the duo adds.
“What a magical collaboration. Being transported this festive season by hearing familiar carols sung in a way that’s truly one-of-a-kind is such a special experience,” said Deirdre King, Managing Director of Jacaranda FM.
“As we celebrate 22 years of Jacaranda FM’s partnership with SPAR 2U, we honour the spirit of giving and the privilege to share the joy of Christmas through music, generosity and community. Through the Santa Shoebox initiative, we’re able to bring Christmas cheer to children who deserve it most.”
The duo says that audiences were treated to musical mash-ups by an all-star lineup such as:
Judith Sephuma and the Soweto Gospel Choir
Corlea and Craig Lucas
Demi Lee Moore and Elandré
Jo Black, Demi Lee Moore, Corlea, and Elandré together in harmony
Zolani | The One Who Sings with the Soweto Gospel Choir, and many more.
Adding to the festive spirit, SPAR 2U and Jacaranda FM say that they encouraged fans to give generously to the Santa Shoebox initiative. Proceeds from ticket sales and donations will help spread joy to children across South Africa, ensuring that 22 children’s homes across six provinces wake up to new toys and a Christmas filled with love.
“This enchanting event doesn’t just bring families and friends together — it showcases the best of humanity,” says Maxine D’Amico, SPAR 2U Inland Advertising and Promotions Manager. “The generosity of our carollers helps us share the gift of Christmas with those who need it most.”
This year, Jacaranda FM and SPAR 2U say that it raised R550 000 in donations from 12,000 carollers around the world, making it another unforgettable year of festive spirit and goodwill.
Musicians shared their sentiments around the festive season and concert. Lee Cole says, “This year’s show (my first) has reminded me to practise gratitude. Gratitude is so good for the soul irrespective of being a part of something as magical as Carols. For Christmas, my mom always makes a stuffed turkey with mash and my family members slowly arrive with desserts and foods — we’re all merry together. My Christmas wish for Sout Africa is that everyone remembers who they are and, more importantly, who we are together and what we can do together as we go into 2025.”
Demi Lee Moore says, “This was my second year being part of Carols and I feel honoured to be back. It’s such a special concert that brings together people from all walks of life. On Christmas day, my mom makes the most delicious trifle and I make the best peppermint tart, we eat a lot during the day, so pudding only comes out late at night. My Christmas wish for everyone is to enjoy your time with each other if you are fortunate enough to have family and friends to celebrate with.”
“Besides being a charity event, it’s great to see all the children participate, it’s the one show where everyone sings and shares the spirit of being together. We typically spend Christmas on the road as the festive period is when we tour. We still have the Christmas spirit as I braai (my steak) whilst my wife makes the whole spread for the family. My Christmas wish is peace, we’re all stressed and stretched — I wish peace upon everyone and to know everything will be okay,” said Jo Black.
Zolani |The One Who Sings says, “For me, one of the most amazing elements of Carols is giving back through Jacaranda FM’s Good Morning Angels. It’s important for everyone to consider each other and where we can be of service — we must have a good time but spread goodwill as well. My wish for my South African family is good health and love.”
“This year’s Carols allowed us to assist Good Morning Angels with the charity component and we also got to spread Christmas cheer. I don’t think I’ve ever done a show with this calibre of musicians and talent, getting to sing with them made me very grateful this festive season. I love the controversial trifle (my mom’s in particular), I could eat it all year round. Every year my mom looks for something different to add. This Christmas I wish that we all remember not to drink and drive and to be kind to yourself and loved ones,” said Craig Lucas.