Africa’s tallest Christmas tree is once again lighting up near Hartbeespoort and Brits when the company, GST, switches on the more than 40 000 lights on the 45m Beacon of Hope tree on Friday, 12 December 2025, as soon as it gets dark.

The 45m Beacon of Hope Christmas Tree will be switched on on 12 December.

“This December, the GST Beacon of Hope will once again rise above Hartbeespoort as a radiant symbol that has, over time, become much more than just a Christmas tree. What began as a simple idea to spread festive joy has grown into a true beacon for the community – a gathering point of light, love, and hope. Over the years, people have celebrated life’s milestones under its glow — even engagements under its towering lights. It has captured hearts across South Africa and beyond, affectionately becoming known as South Africa’s Christmas Tree — and standing tall as the highest Christmas tree on the African continent,” he said.
“But this year, it’s not about height… It’s about hearts reached. In partnership with Pam Golding Properties and the Together We Eat Foundation, the Beacon of Hope initiative is focused on feeding families, restoring dignity, and uniting our community through meaningful impact,” said GST Marketing Manager Walter Gähler.
“Together, this partnership forms two powerful pillars of giving, namely nourishment through Together We Eat, which provides Fuel Packs, a nutrient-rich meal solution filled with 23 essential vitamins and minerals, to children and individuals in need. Pam Golding Properties will encourage their clients, especially those moving homes or renovating, to donate pre-loved cutlery, furniture, appliances and household items still in good condition. These items will be collected and redistributed by Together We Eat to schools, shelters, and families in need,” he said. “This year, hope isn’t measured in meters, but in hearts reached. Sometimes a simple act of kindness, a meal, cutlery or a blanket, can completely transform someone’s life.”
“We recently shared this initiative with some of our clients who were preparing to move, and their response was remarkable. It is truly heart-warming to see how quickly our community embraces the chance to give pre-loved items a meaningful second life,” said Erika van der Westhuizen, principal of Pam Golding Properties Hartbeespoort.
The official lighting of the Beacon of Hope will take place on 12 December 2025 at the GST head office in Hartbeespoort on the Old Rustenburg Road.