Father Christmas will make the David Jones Magic Cave his second home from November 2 (Pageant Day) until Christmas Eve 2024

It’s beginning to feel a lot like Christmas at David Jones, Adelaide Central Plaza, as the iconic Magic Cave welcomes Father Christmas. Open from November 2, the same day as the National Pharmacies Christmas Pageant.

Is it the same Magic Cave that you remember from your childhood? – No
But we think it’s a great option for premium Santa photos. There’s a carousel kids can ride, some funny mirrors and Christmas displays plus the city location means you can check out the Santa Course in Rundle Mall after your visit or get some Christmas shopping done.

The Magic Cave is an Adelaide icon and began its association with John Martin’s, another department store, in 1896.  Mr Edward Waterfield Hayward – then owner of the John Martin & Company Limited, established the ‘Magic Cave’. It was a Christmas fantasy world, to support children’s cultural heritage and provide a joyful community Christmas experience.

Customers are invited to make a gold coin donation to the Starlight Children’s Foundation again this festive season, a chosen partner of David Jones. Helping grant the wishes of sick kids and their families this Christmas can be done through direct donations or donating the $2 fee for David Jones’ bespoke Christmas gift wrapping instore.

Santa Photos at the Magic Cave:

Take a seat beside Santa and create some family memories this Christmas.

Guests are invited to take a seat alongside Father Christmas in a captivating world celebrating festive cheer, with full-service-photographers capturing the special memory for families to treasure both now and in years to come. Roving carollers, the Toy Soldier Troupe and a DJ for in-store entertainment will add to the excitement of the festive season.

All bookings will receive their photo in a custom designed David Jones frame and each child will receive a special reindeer antler headband from Santa himself.

click here to book your Santa Photos

Sensitive Santa Sessions are available on November 23 & 24, available for families of children with special needs. 
Take your pet along for a Santa PAWtraits available on 21 & 22 November and 5 & 6 December
click here to book your Santa Photos

Pre-paid Santa photo bookings are essential. Walk ins to the Magic Cave are available, if timing permits, but bookings are strongly encouraged, especially during the month of December

David Jones, Level 2, Adelaide Central Plaza, Rundle Mall, Adelaide

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