Latest news with #ChristmasinJuly
IOL News
21 hours ago
- IOL News
Experience Durban's festive July: Christmas in July and the Hollywoodbets Durban July
Four-year-old Jiyana Daya is celebrating Christmas in July and having the time of her life skating on a pop up ice ring at The Pearls in uMhlanga. Image: Tumi Pakkies / Independent Newspapers Durban is set to become a playground of excitement and entertainment during the month of July, with something for everyone. From family-friendly activities to horse racing and cinematic showcases, the bustling city offers an unforgettable winter wonderland for all. uMhlanga Tourism Chairperson Jeannie Sarno highlighted July as an ideal month to welcome visitors. Sarno noted that the "phenomenal weather", combined with the energy brought by school visitors, creates a vibrant atmosphere. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ The Pearls Mall in uMhlanga, north of Durban, is hosting its inaugural 'Christmas in July' celebration. This holiday programme, which runs from Monday until July 20, aims to transform the holiday experience by offering a unique fusion of winter enchantment for both locals and visitors. A free ice skating rink with snow for children is among the attractions. 'We wanted to offer a unique experience at The Pearls Mall and create some holiday fun that Durbanites don't normally encounter,' said Nilesh Singh, director of The Pearls in uMhlanga. Sarno added that parents can enjoy coffee or browse the mall while their children skate. Four-year-old Jiyana Daya is celebrating Christmas in July and having the time of her life skating on a pop up ice ring at The Pearls in uMhlanga. Image: Tumi Pakkies / Independent Newspapers The Pearls is also running a Winter Donation Drive dedicated to collecting blankets, warm clothing, and non-perishable food items to support those in need during the coldest time of the year, culminating in a special event on Mandela Day. 'We invite all members of our community to contribute by donating items that can help those less fortunate. Every contribution, no matter how small, has the power to make a difference,' said events manager Priyal Nathoo. Nathoo said donations can be dropped off at the uMhlanga Tourism Desk at The Pearls Mall until July 17, culminating in a special event on Mandela Day. Four-year-old Jiyana Daya next to a Winter Donation Drive box at The Pearls in uMhlanga. Image: Tumi Pakkies / Independent Newspapers No Christmas in July celebration is complete without festive food. The Oyster Box Hotel in uMhlanga said Durbanites need an excuse to celebrate. 'So get your winter woollies out (and we really need them at the moment) and bring a crowd to share in some early Christmas cheer for the Christmas in July feast. We're serving a traditional three-course festive lunch on our beautiful Ocean Terrace, with views to die for.' The lunch is scheduled to take place on July 20 and features a traditional festive lunch, including a plated starter, a buffet-style main course, and a plated dessert. Christmas in July feast at the Oyster Box in uMhlanga. Image: Supplied Meanwhile, it's all systems go for the eThekwini Municipality as it prepares to host Africa's largest horseracing event, the Hollywoodbets Durban July, at Greyville Racecourse on July 5. The city said its tourism and hospitality industry is prepared to welcome scores of visitors, and safety and security plans have also been finalised. Race Coast spokesman Tim Whitfield said the infield, marquee village, picnic spots, and grandstand area of incredible suites will provide the perfect venue to network and socialise in an atmosphere of elegance and festive fun at the Durban July. He said the area provides the best space for entertainment and food while still imbuing the raceday atmosphere. Big screens will provide the perfect way to watch each race, and quality musicians and DJs will provide music and vibes until the early hours of the morning, he added. 'This year's Hollywoodbets Durban July promises to provide everyone with a full day's entertainment: from horse racing and fashion to food, music, and entertainment, no one will be disappointed as Hollywoodbets Greyville Racecourse continues the proud tradition of one of the longest-running racing events in the history of horse racing,' said Whitfield. Eight On Eighteen is the favourite for the Hollywoodbets Durban July on Saturday, July 5, 2025. Image: Candiese Lenferna / Race Coast / Gameplan Media The city said that besides the exciting horse racing, the Durban July provides a platform for both upcoming and established fashion designers to showcase their creative talent. 'In this regard, 25 designers will showcase their 'Marvels of Mzansi' collections on the main stage, as part of the Durban July Fashion Experience,' it said. Shenal Zulu, wearing a DFF Rising Stars outfit designed by Mbasa Ndongeni, with Madison Valley, which is trained by Frank Robinson and will be ridden by Gavin Lerena in the Hollywoodbets Durban July on Saturday, July 5, 2025. Image: Candiese Lenferna / Race Coast / Gameplan Media To live up to its reputation as "Africa's Playground" and a premier festival and event destination, eThekwini Municipality said Durban will host events across both the city and its townships this weekend. These events include Fact Durban Rocks, Any Given Sunday, Anywhere in the City, and Mojo's July Weekend, among others. Chairperson of the Economic Development and Planning Committee, Councillor Thembo Ntuli, said the Durban July promises to deliver memorable experiences. 'It is time to celebrate the vibrant spirit of Durban as the city transforms into a hub of glamour, excitement, and world-class entertainment.' Provincial police spokesperson Captain Carmen Rhynes said various disciplines from the SAPS and other security agencies will be on high alert and deployed at the Hollywoodbets Durban July at the Greyville Racecourse on Saturday. 'Police and other law enforcement will monitor the event and ensure that there is peace and stability. The spectators and horse racing fans must behave themselves and enjoy the entertainment,' she said. Rhynes added that those who indulge in alcohol must be dropped off and picked up or alternatively use available modes of public transport. 'Parking is limited, and we advise attendees to make use of available modes of public transport as far as possible,' she said. She advised motorists to come early to avoid traffic congestion at the parking gates and to make sure that their vehicles are locked properly. The KwaZulu-Natal Tourism and Film Authority (KZNTAFA) is predicting a vibrant and bustling winter holiday season with a series of hallmark events this month. KZNTAFA interim chief executive officer Sibusiso Gumbi stated that July is celebrated as Film Month in KZN. 'The province plays host to the Durban International Film Festival (DIFF), the Durban FilmMart (DFM), and the Simon Mabhunu Sabela Awards on July 19. These events not only draw global creatives and industry leaders but also reinforce KZN's reputation as a leading film and content production hub in Africa.' The Durban Film Festival is scheduled for July 17 - 27, with the Durban FilmMart taking place from July 18 - 21. In addition, Sarno invited the public to put on their dancing shoes for disco night at the Oyster Box on July 12. 'If you are a seafood fanatic, then don't miss the Seafood Feast at uMhlanga Coastlands on 4 July,' she said. On Wednesdays, there is the weekly farmers market at Prestondale, while artistic lovers can indulge in the Sip and Paint event at The Press Club Salta on July 8, she said.
IOL News
a day ago
- IOL News
Experience Durban's festive July: Christmas in July and the Hollywoodbets Durban July
Four-year-old Jiyana Daya is celebrating Christmas in July and having the time of her life skating on a pop up ice ring at The Pearls in uMhlanga. Image: Tumi Pakkies / Independent Newspapers Durban is set to become a playground of excitement and entertainment during the month of July, with something for everyone. From family-friendly activities to horse racing and cinematic showcases, the bustling city offers an unforgettable winter wonderland for all. uMhlanga Tourism Chairperson Jeannie Sarno highlighted July as an ideal month to welcome visitors. Sarno noted that the "phenomenal weather", combined with the energy brought by school visitors, creates a vibrant atmosphere. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ The Pearls Mall in uMhlanga, north of Durban, is hosting its inaugural 'Christmas in July' celebration. This holiday programme, which runs from Monday until July 20, aims to transform the holiday experience by offering a unique fusion of winter enchantment for both locals and visitors. A free ice skating rink with snow for children is among the attractions. 'We wanted to offer a unique experience at The Pearls Mall and create some holiday fun that Durbanites don't normally encounter,' said Nilesh Singh, director of The Pearls in uMhlanga. Sarno added that parents can enjoy coffee or browse the mall while their children skate. Four-year-old Jiyana Daya is celebrating Christmas in July and having the time of her life skating on a pop up ice ring at The Pearls in uMhlanga. Image: Tumi Pakkies / Independent Newspapers The Pearls is also running a Winter Donation Drive dedicated to collecting blankets, warm clothing, and non-perishable food items to support those in need during the coldest time of the year, culminating in a special event on Mandela Day. 'We invite all members of our community to contribute by donating items that can help those less fortunate. Every contribution, no matter how small, has the power to make a difference,' said events manager Priyal Nathoo. Nathoo said donations can be dropped off at the uMhlanga Tourism Desk at The Pearls Mall until July 17, culminating in a special event on Mandela Day. Four-year-old Jiyana Daya next to a Winter Donation Drive box at The Pearls in uMhlanga. Image: Tumi Pakkies / Independent Newspapers No Christmas in July celebration is complete without festive food. The Oyster Box Hotel in uMhlanga said Durbanites need an excuse to celebrate. 'So get your winter woollies out (and we really need them at the moment) and bring a crowd to share in some early Christmas cheer for the Christmas in July feast. We're serving a traditional three-course festive lunch on our beautiful Ocean Terrace, with views to die for.' The lunch is scheduled to take place on July 20 and features a traditional festive lunch, including a plated starter, a buffet-style main course, and a plated dessert. Christmas in July feast at the Oyster Box in uMhlanga. Image: Supplied Meanwhile, it's all systems go for the eThekwini Municipality as it prepares to host Africa's largest horseracing event, the Hollywoodbets Durban July, at Greyville Racecourse on July 5. The city said its tourism and hospitality industry is prepared to welcome scores of visitors, and safety and security plans have also been finalised. Race Coast spokesman Tim Whitfield said the infield, marquee village, picnic spots, and grandstand area of incredible suites will provide the perfect venue to network and socialise in an atmosphere of elegance and festive fun at the Durban July. He said the area provides the best space for entertainment and food while still imbuing the raceday atmosphere. Big screens will provide the perfect way to watch each race, and quality musicians and DJs will provide music and vibes until the early hours of the morning, he added. 'This year's Hollywoodbets Durban July promises to provide everyone with a full day's entertainment: from horse racing and fashion to food, music, and entertainment, no one will be disappointed as Hollywoodbets Greyville Racecourse continues the proud tradition of one of the longest-running racing events in the history of horse racing,' said Whitfield. Eight On Eighteen is the favourite for the Hollywoodbets Durban July on Saturday, July 5, 2025. Image: Candiese Lenferna / Race Coast / Gameplan Media The city said that besides the exciting horse racing, the Durban July provides a platform for both upcoming and established fashion designers to showcase their creative talent. 'In this regard, 25 designers will showcase their 'Marvels of Mzansi' collections on the main stage, as part of the Durban July Fashion Experience,' it said. Shenal Zulu, wearing a DFF Rising Stars outfit designed by Mbasa Ndongeni, with Madison Valley, which is trained by Frank Robinson and will be ridden by Gavin Lerena in the Hollywoodbets Durban July on Saturday, July 5, 2025. Image: Candiese Lenferna / Race Coast / Gameplan Media To live up to its reputation as "Africa's Playground" and a premier festival and event destination, eThekwini Municipality said Durban will host events across both the city and its townships this weekend. These events include Fact Durban Rocks, Any Given Sunday, Anywhere in the City, and Mojo's July Weekend, among others. Chairperson of the Economic Development and Planning Committee, Councillor Thembo Ntuli, said the Durban July promises to deliver memorable experiences. 'It is time to celebrate the vibrant spirit of Durban as the city transforms into a hub of glamour, excitement, and world-class entertainment.' Provincial police spokesperson Captain Carmen Rhynes said various disciplines from the SAPS and other security agencies will be on high alert and deployed at the Hollywoodbets Durban July at the Greyville Racecourse on Saturday. 'Police and other law enforcement will monitor the event and ensure that there is peace and stability. The spectators and horse racing fans must behave themselves and enjoy the entertainment,' she said. Rhynes added that those who indulge in alcohol must be dropped off and picked up or alternatively use available modes of public transport. 'Parking is limited, and we advise attendees to make use of available modes of public transport as far as possible,' she said. She advised motorists to come early to avoid traffic congestion at the parking gates and to make sure that their vehicles are locked properly. The KwaZulu-Natal Tourism and Film Authority (KZNTAFA) is predicting a vibrant and bustling winter holiday season with a series of hallmark events this month. KZNTAFA interim chief executive officer Sibusiso Gumbi stated that July is celebrated as Film Month in KZN. 'The province plays host to the Durban International Film Festival (DIFF), the Durban FilmMart (DFM), and the Simon Mabhunu Sabela Awards on July 19. These events not only draw global creatives and industry leaders but also reinforce KZN's reputation as a leading film and content production hub in Africa.' The Durban Film Festival is scheduled for July 17 - 27, with the Durban FilmMart taking place from July 18 - 21. In addition, Sarno invited the public to put on their dancing shoes for disco night at the Oyster Box on July 12. 'If you are a seafood fanatic, then don't miss the Seafood Feast at uMhlanga Coastlands on 4 July,' she said. On Wednesdays, there is the weekly farmers market at Prestondale, while artistic lovers can indulge in the Sip and Paint event at The Press Club Salta on July 8, she said.
IOL News
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- IOL News
Celebrate Christmas in July with ice skating and donations at The Pearls Mall
Join the festive fun at The Pearls Mall in uMhlanga this July, where the inaugural 'Christmas in July' celebration features a magical ice skating rink and a Winter Donation Drive in support of Mandela Day. Image: Supplied This July, The Pearls Mall in uMhlanga is set to redefine the holiday experience, bringing a unique blend of winter magic to locals and visitors alike with its first-ever 'Christmas in July' celebration. Launched on Monday and running until July 20, the holiday programme aims to create an enchanting environment, featuring a free ice skating rink for children that encourages families to engage in fun-filled activities while embracing the festive spirit. Nilesh Singh, director of The Pearls, said the idea was to create an experience for both the patrons of The Pearls Mall and out-of-town visitors during the holiday period. 'We wanted to offer a unique experience at The Pearls Mall and create some holiday fun that Durbanites don't normally encounter,' he said. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Ad loading Singh noted the overwhelming interest from the public for the planned festivities. 'Looking at the launch the other day, the children were really enthralled by the snowflakes. Who would have thought that one could experience the magic of snow in a Durban winter?' he said. Singh further highlighted The Pearls' commitment to social responsibility, particularly as Mandela Day approaches on July 18. In line with this, the mall is hosting a Winter Donation Drive, where the public will have an opportunity to donate blankets, clothing, and non-perishables to those in need. 'While we have a unique and fun experience for visitors to the mall, we also have the ability to draw the same people to take part in a social responsibility programme,' said Singh. The Winter Donation Drive will run until July 17. Events manager Priyal Nathoo said the team is excited to kick off the drive with an initiative dedicated to collecting blankets, warm clothing, and non-perishable food items to support those in need during the coldest time of the year. 'As the temperature drops, so do the barriers to warmth and nourishment for many in our community. In the spirit of Mandela's commitment to social justice and equality, we believe that everyone deserves the right to feel safe, warm, and cared for. This is where you come in. 'We invite all members of our community to contribute by donating items that can help those less fortunate. Every contribution, no matter how small, has the power to make a difference. Imagine the warmth of a soft blanket or a cosy sweater wrapping around someone in need, or the comfort of a nourishing meal provided to a family struggling to make ends meet,' stated Nathoo. Nathoo said donations can be dropped off at the uMhlanga Tourism Desk, located at The Pearls Mall, until July 17, culminating in a special event on Mandela Day. 'Let's come together to spread warmth and kindness, embodying the true spirit of Mandela Day. Each item donated is a step towards creating a more caring and compassionate community. We encourage everyone to join us in this noble cause and help us turn our mall into a hub of generosity and humanity,' she said.
Associated Press
2 days ago
- Business
- Associated Press
Christmas in July: Shopping Expert, Claudia Lombana's Top Holiday Deals and Summer Savings on TipsOnTV
Discover unique summer sales, crafting must-haves, and kid-friendly finds to make Christmas in July extra merry. ATLANTA, GA / ACCESS Newswire / July 2, 2025 / Christmas in July is a non-traditional holiday celebration held in the summer, typically on or around mid-July, featuring Christmas-themed activities and decorations. Christmas in July aims to bring the joy and cheer of Christmas to the summer months. It is also a way to enjoy the festive spirit outside the traditional December holiday season and take advantage of super summer sales. Shopping expert, Claudia Lombana offers ideas for getting into the holiday spirit, along with the latest deals, consumer products, and trends for everyone on the gift in July Holiday Savings with Claudia Lombana Claudia Lombana shares her favorite summer deals and festive finds for Christmas in July, featuring must-have gifts, smart savings, and family-friendly products on TipsOnTV. WHAT DEALS STAND OUT One standout is the Scuba X1 from Aiper. It is a powerful, cordless robotic pool cleaner that scrubs the floor, walls, and waterline, picking up everything from sand and leaves to pet hair and bugs. With smart navigation and a sleek design, it tackles even the dirtiest of pools so homeowners can focus on splashing and relaxing all summer long. Just in time for Prime Day, Aiper is offering the Scuba X1 at 15% off - under $935, down from $1,100 - now through July 11. Find it and more summer savings at or on Aiper's Amazon Store. DEALS FOR PEOPLE WHO LOVE TO CRAFT For those interested in crafting, the Cricut Explore 4 is a top Prime Day deal. It's fast and super easy to use for creative projects like custom shirts, signs, shadow boxes, and even holiday décor. The Engagement Kit bundle is just $249 for the first two days of Prime Day. To level up, the Engagement Kit+ is $399 starting July 10. Both bundles include Smart Vinyl, Iron-On, tools, mats, and bonus digital content. It's a great time to grab it while the deals last. For more information, visit or Cricut's Amazon Store. FUN DEALS FOR KIDS A favorite for sparking kids' imaginations comes from Melissa & Doug, the brand parents trust for high-quality, screen-free play. Their Scoop & Serve Ice Cream Counter is a 28-piece play set that lets kids dish up their own sweet creations with wooden scoops, cones, and toppings. It's skill-building fun for kids ages 3 and up. It's also part of Melissa & Doug's Christmas in July sale with up to 25% off site-wide from July 1-10, and daily deals running July 14-25 at or Melissa & Doug's Amazon Store. SMART SUMMER DEALS Euhomy, the World's Best Portable Ice Maker, has launched its new LunaArc, the flagship product that makes crescent ice. Whether it's for pour-over coffee or a handcrafted cocktail, its crystal-clear, slow-melting ice preserves the original flavor and elevates the visual appeal of every drink. Euhomy offers a full line of ice-making products. Just in time for Prime Day sales, shoppers can visit or Euhomy's Amazon Store to get $50 off by using the coupon code: STNEW. POST | VIDEO About TipsOnTV TipsOnTV is a lifestyle blog featuring content as seen on national and local media outlets. Expert hosts share advice for viewers, listeners, and readers. TipsOnTV covers a variety of topics, including food, entertaining, personal finance, technology, travel, health, lifestyle, and more. Contact InformationR E SOURCE: TipsOnTV press release
Cision Canada
2 days ago
- Cision Canada
redtag.ca's Christmas in July Returns with Major Travel Deals for Canadians Français
An annual favourite among Canadian travellers, featuring early booking bonuses and unbeatable savings on fall & winter escapes. TORONTO, July 2, 2025 /CNW/ - has officially unwrapped one of its most anticipated promotions of the year: Christmas in July - the annual travel event Canadians look forward to, offering exclusive early booking bonuses and savings on fall and winter travel. More than just a sale, Christmas in July is one of the smartest ways for travellers to plan ahead and lock in the best value before the seasonal rush. Whether you're dreaming of a sunny all-inclusive escape, a visit to reconnect with family, or a long-awaited cruise adventure, this campaign delivers real savings on the experiences that matter most. Featuring top tour operators like Air Canada Vacations, Sunwing, Transat, and more, this year's offers span the most sought-after sun destinations, including Jamaica, the Dominican Republic, Los Cabos, and beyond. "Canadians don't need a snowstorm to start dreaming of the beach," says Sam Youssef, Senior Vice President of Marketing and Partnerships at "Christmas in July is our way of helping travellers lock in great value early, so they can skip the stress and start counting down to their next sun-filled escape. It's smart, it's easy, and it's our favourite tradition of the season." With exclusive savings across all travel categories – from vacation packages to flights, hotels, car rentals, and cruises, Christmas in July includes: Up to $300 off vacation packages and flight & hotel bundles* $25 eGift Card with flight bookings, PLUS a chance to win back your flight up to $1,000* $50 onboard credit on cruise bookings* 5% off hotels* $25 off car rentals* This limited-time event is the perfect opportunity for travellers to book early, save big, and look forward to their next escape before winter even begins. For full details and to take advantage of these exclusive deals, visit Offer ends July 31, 2025 *Per booking. Certain restrictions apply. For complete terms and conditions, visit between July 2-31, 2025, while supplies last. About is one of Canada's top travel companies, specializing in personalized travel solutions for every type of traveller. As part of the H.I.S Canada Travel Inc./TravelBrands family, offers an extensive selection of vacation packages, flights, hotels, car rentals, cruises, and even travel to the edge of space – making it easier than ever to plan and book unforgettable travel experiences. Known for its innovative approach and exceptional customer service, has earned the trust of travellers seeking great value, simplicity, and convenience. With competitive pricing and exclusive perks, ensures customers always get the best value for their travel investment. With over 20 years of experience, is committed to helping travellers create their dream vacations, powered by cutting-edge technology and a passionate team of travel professionals. Discover travel made easy™ at
