Christmas time with family or friends can end up as a day of chores, and the main event is usually a big dinner

Exploring your city during the festive season can reveal that there is much to do that would help with a stress-free December

If you’re a lawyer, doctor, nurse, teacher or anyone with a 9-5 job, whipping up a whole Christmas dinner gathering is the last thing you need. Here are five things you can do instead.

1. Casinos

Casinos are not simply places of gambling, they can be family-friendly during the holidays. South Africa’s Monte Casino offers the largest festive lights display in Johannesburg, called Magical Italian Village of Lights. The casino offers other free activities for families to enjoy

Don’t avoid casinos this holiday. Similar places in your area may host similar events for Christmas

2. Walk and see animals

Instead of being cooped up all day, finding a place to enjoy a picturesque walk can be wholesome. Do some research about your local hiking park or zoo’s schedule, and find out if they are open during Christmas.

Zoo Lake in joburg is the ideal spot where a festive picnic would be the best idea. The Joburg Zoo houses the big 5, and you could spot some on Christmas.

3. Eat out for Christmas

The perfect way to escape the day hustle of making Christmas lunch and dinner, eat out for one of the meals. Many restaurants use the festive season to maximise on those stragglers who were not keen to cook for Christmas and Christmas Eve

4. Hotel Christmas events

Local hotels can be a great place to find a way to spend time with loved ones on Christmas without stress. Many spots will offer brunch or lunch for the festive days, for example, Four Seasons Hotel in West Cliff Johannesburg.

5. Christmas and Happy New Year events

Many cities often have special occasions planned for 24 and 25 December 2023. From carolling to markets, Johannesburg has more than 10 events with tickets available over Christmas.