Online Reporter
Zimpapers Entertainment Editor
AS Christmas Day dawns tomorrow, Zimbabwe’s creative community is embracing the season in ways that go beyond bright lights and packed venues.
Across the country, artistes, cultural leaders and public figures are choosing to mark the birth of Christ through music, family, charity and responsible celebration reflecting a festive mood that blends entertainment with purpose.
While major Christmas Day shows headline the national calendar, including live music gatherings and family-orientated concerts in Harare, Norton and Bulawayo, many creatives are also using the day to reconnect with their roots and give back.
At Pakare Paye Arts Centre in Norton, Christmas Day will be punctuated by a family-friendly live music experience that brings together worship, contemporary sound and togetherness, while other venues across the capital host afternoon and evening performances designed to unite families after church and lunch. For Miss Universe Zimbabwe, Lyshanda Moyas, Christmas is deeply personal and community-centred. “As Miss Universe Zimbabwe, Christmas for me is a time of reflection, gratitude and giving back to the communities that continue to shape and support me,” she said.
This Christmas Day, Moyas is hosting a carols and party celebration with children from Mufakose, housed at Wings of Grace Children’s Home — a place she says has become close to her heart since the beginning of her reign.
Founded in the late ‘80s by Gogo Gwanzura, Wings of Grace stands as a symbol of compassion and service. Partnering with Maize Mingle Restaurant, Moyas has helped mobilise donations of foodstuffs, clothing and essential items to ensure the children experience joy, laughter and dignity.
“For me, this celebration is not just about gifts or entertainment but about restoring hope, dignity and a sense of belonging,” she said. The Christmas Day programme will feature carols, performances, games and shared meals — moments that reflect the true spirit of the season.
Away from the stage lights, arts promoter, Josh Hozheri is choosing a quieter, deeply meaningful Christmas Day.
He will be travelling to Featherstone to spend the day with his mother, Gogo Olivia Wadzanai Mutasa Hozheri. “It’s of paramount importance to spend time with her and thank God for the beautiful years we have spent together,” Hozheri said, acknowledging the unwavering support she has given him over the years.
Yet even in reflection, Hozheri’s message to Zimbabweans remains firm and timely. “Let’s have responsible fun and be safe on our roads to arrive and stay alive,” he urged, also warning against drug and substance abuse, particularly among young people within creative spaces and the Zimdancehall market.
For the gospel couple “The Cherayis’, Christmas Day is anchored in faith and family.
“As we celebrate the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ, I will be spending this sacred season with my family, giving thanks for all the Lord has done for us throughout the year,” they shared. Together with his wife Sharon, their focus is gratitude, prayer and recommitting to service. Their message to the nation is one of renewal — that Christmas should strengthen families and remind Zimbabweans that true peace and hope are found in Christ.
Sculptor Dominic Benhura said he will be at work on Christmas Day and Boxing Day.
For renowned music producer, Nigel Nyangombe he said, Christmas Day, he will spend Christmas Day with family.
“Christmas is a time for family and it’s about happy moments but now it’s different.
When growing up we would love this season, it was a time to travel where you haven’t been, dress up in expensive clothes and get gifts. We could be eating different foods that we used to eat daily and receiving cards from friends and relatives,” said Nyangombe.
Across the creative sector, a common thread runs through this Christmas Day: intentional celebration. Whether on stage, at home, or in children’s homes, Zimbabwe’s creatives are choosing meaning over excess, community over isolation, and responsibility over recklessness.
