Father Christmas will make the David Jones Magic Cave his second home from November 4 until Christmas Eve 2023

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 4th, 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 a 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.

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.

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:

This year, take a seat beside Santa and create some family memories!

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.

On Friday 10th and 17th November, from 5.30pm to 8.30pm, Santa PAWtraits sessions make a return as one of the multiple package options available for the ultimate festive experience, which also includes Sensitive Santa, and standard sessions. At all sessions in 2023, guests will receive houndstooth reindeer antlers as David Jones’ gift to customers, as well their photo displayed in a custom David Jones frame.

Sensitive Santa for children with sensory needs and Pawtraits (pet photography) also available. Photo package pricing starting at $30.

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

Click here for all the info and to make a booking

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

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