For 22 extraordinary years, Jacaranda FM and SPAR 2U have brought the magic of Christmas to life with their annual SPAR 2U Carols by Candlelight — a cherished tradition featuring some of South Africa’s most beloved musicians. This year was no exception!
On 5 December, the SunBet Arena at Time Square in Pretoria lit up with holiday cheer as thousands gathered for the live performance of this much-anticipated event. Meanwhile, families across the globe tuned in online from as far as the USA, UK, Canada, and Zimbabwe to enjoy the heartwarming concert from the comfort of their homes.
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 was a feast for the soul, featuring unique renditions of carols performed like never before.
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 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 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,” said 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 once again outdid themselves, raising 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:
This years’ show (my first) has reminded me to practice 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 SA 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
This was my second year of 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.
ZOLANI | THE ONE WHO SINGS
For me one of the most amazing elements of Carols is giving back trough 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.
CRAIG LUCAS
This years’ 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 caliber of musicians and talent, getting to sing with them made me very grateful this festive season. I love the controversial triffel (my moms 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 Rember not to drink and drive and to be kind to yourself and loved ones.
JUDITH SEPHUMA
KB MOTSILANYANE