041Lifestyle writer Carleen Tobias visited Playland and came back with a question “when was the last time we let ourselves be a little reckless, a little nostalgic, and a lot joyful, all in the name of summer?”
On 12 December, Playland officially opened its gates at Kings Beach, and I found myself swept into a world of flashing lights, shrieks of laughter, spinning rides, and the unmistakable smell of fried happiness. Invited by Yo Media, the evening was far more than just a visit to the fair, it was an initiative that tugged gently, but firmly, at the heart.
In exchange for free rides (a deal my inner child accepted immediately), each of us was nominated with the name of a child from a local children’s home. Our task was simple, yet profoundly meaningful: fulfil their wish list. Surrounded by neon lights and carnival music, it was a grounding reminder that joy is sweetest when it’s shared. Somewhere between the laughter and the rides, there was a quieter, deeper gratitude, the kind that lingers long after the music fades.
The Fair Itself
Playland was alive. Families, couples, friend groups, everyone soaking up the kind of atmosphere that only a seaside fair can create. Children darted between rides, parents held snacks and bags with heroic determination, and couples shared that look that says, “Let’s pretend we’re teenagers again.”
Naturally, I made a beeline for my non-negotiable: the potato spiral. Crispy, golden, and slightly dangerous if eaten too fast; a Playland icon. The kind of snack you enjoy knowing you’re about to hop on a ride that may or may not test your stomach.
Speaking of rides, there’s something for everyone. From gentle options for little ones to attractions that test your bravery and your trust in gravity, there’s a thrill for all. Mid-air, on one particularly ambitious ride, I realised quietly but powerfully: I may actually be afraid of heights. Growth is important. So is knowing when to close your eyes and scream.
And then there are the bumper cars: pure, unfiltered chaos. A magical zone where it’s completely acceptable to bump into as many people as possible without insurance or ER worries. Honestly? Therapeutic.
The weather played along beautifully: warm, calm, and golden. As the sun dipped, only one thing remained: a Ferris wheel ride at sunset. Slowly rising above the buzz of Playland, the view opened up to the bay, lights twinkling, music floating up, and the ocean quietly reminding us how lucky we are to call this place home. Cute? Yes. Romantic? Absolutely. Main-character moment? Undeniably.
Good to Know Before You Go
- Playland runs from 12 December to 11 January at Kings Beach
- Entrance is free
- Ride tickets cost around R25 each
- Most rides take 1–4 tickets, depending on your bravery
- Limited wristbands may be available on certain days for R500, giving 3 hours of unlimited rides
- Tickets are purchased on-site only at the official Playland ticket office (cash & card accepted)
So maybe the real question isn’t whether Playland is worth a visit. Maybe it’s whether we’re ever too old for fairy lights, fried snacks, screaming on rides, and moments that remind us how good it feels to be present and kind.
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