Sacred Heart College teamed up with some sponsors including Joburg Metro, Joburg Zoo, The Star and Johannesburg City Parks to continue what people view as the City’s tree tradition.
“Every year we see more and more people joining us for this wonderful tradition,” said Colin Northmore, head of Sacred Heart College.
“This event is becoming the symbol and the event to kick off the holiday season for the community.”
Community members gathered at the zoo in anticipation for the lighting ceremony which included performances by the Welsh Male Voice Choir of South Africa, the Sacred Heart College choir and a Marimba act by students the college’s pupils.
At 7.30pm, families gathered around the tree (made up of hundreds of globes) in anticipation as they counted down for the big reveal.
With Mayor Tau Parks unable to make it for the lighting, Lyn Pieters from HospiceWits flipped the switch.
The choirs’ beautiful Christmas carols filled the air as all the lights were dimmed. Standing more than three metres tall, as the tree lit up, the zoo was suffused by a golden glow.
The night was full of holiday cheer and fun as people celebrated with their community as one big family.
Sindeka Mgodeli was at the tree lighting with her children and family friends.
Delighted to hear the children sing, Sindeka said she and her family “just love it” and couldn’t imagine staying at home and missing the festivities.
HospiceWits was the charity that benefited on the night, as people donated funds towards the palliative care provider.
