As winter school holidays approach, many parents face the same challenge: finding activities that keep children entertained, active and engaged without relying on screens.
This year, Clearwater Mall has the answer.
From 27 June to 11 July 2026, the popular Johannesburg shopping destination will transform Rochester Court into a vibrant playground of classic games and family-friendly activities through its new Oh Happy Days activation.
Designed as a celebration of old-fashioned fun, the experience encourages children to move, play, create and connect through activities that many parents will fondly remember from their own childhoods.
A School Holiday Throwback
Located at Rochester Court on the mall’s upper level, Oh Happy Days offers a refreshing alternative to digital entertainment.
Children can test their skills at mini ten-pin bowling, shoot hoops at mini basketball courts, challenge friends and family to giant noughts and crosses, or settle into the family board game corner for some friendly competition.
The activation also includes a creative craft station, providing young visitors with an opportunity to express themselves while taking a break from the action.
The result is a space designed around imagination, movement and togetherness.
Rather than focusing on technology, Clearwater Mall is encouraging families to rediscover the simple pleasures of spending quality time together.
Creating Moments That Matter
According to Prianka Singh Rodgers, Marketing Manager at Clearwater Mall, the goal was to create something families could return to throughout the holiday period.
“We wanted to create something different to the usual school holiday workshop,” says Rodgers.
“With this range of activities running every day for two weeks, families do not need a special occasion to come along. Oh Happy Days can become a regular part of the school holidays to-do list, somewhere parents can bring the kids back to more than once.”
That flexibility makes the activation particularly appealing for families looking for affordable entertainment during the winter break.
Whether visiting once or several times, children can enjoy a variety of activities designed to keep them engaged and active.
Fun Without the Screens
The concept taps into a growing desire among parents to balance children’s screen time with more interactive experiences.
Games such as bowling, basketball and board games encourage problem-solving, coordination, social interaction and healthy competition, while also creating opportunities for families to spend meaningful time together.
It is a reminder that some of the best childhood memories are often created through simple moments of play.
For younger visitors, the activation offers a chance to discover games that have entertained generations, while parents can enjoy a welcome dose of nostalgia.
Affordable Family Entertainment
Oh Happy Days will run daily throughout the school holiday period.
Sessions are available Monday to Saturday from 11:00am to 7:00pm and Sundays from 11:00am to 4:00pm.
Tickets are priced at R50 per slot and can be booked through Webtickets.
With two weeks of continuous activities, families have plenty of opportunities to join the fun and make the most of the winter holidays.
More Than Shopping
Clearwater Mall continues to position itself as more than a shopping destination.
Situated along Johannesburg’s growing western corridor, the centre offers a diverse mix of shopping, dining and entertainment experiences for the entire family.
Home to 218 stores, a state-of-the-art Nu Metro cinema complex, Indy Kart go-karting, an Airsoft Range and a range of restaurants and cafés, the mall remains one of Johannesburg’s leading lifestyle destinations.
This winter, however, the spotlight belongs to the simple joy of play.
For families looking to slow down, reconnect and create lasting holiday memories, Oh Happy Days promises exactly what its name suggests.
A few happy days filled with fun, laughter and old-fashioned family entertainment.
