It is with a heavy heart that we bring you some important news regarding one of our most cherished events, SPAR OFM Carols by Candlelight. After careful consideration and planning, we regret to announce that the event will not take place in 2024. We understand the significance of this tradition, and we want to take a moment to explain our decision, reflect on its importance, and share our hopes for the future.

For many years, SPAR OFM Carols by Candlelight has been a highlight of the festive calendar, bringing together families, friends, and communities to celebrate the joy of the season through music and togetherness. This event has not only showcased the talents of local artists and choirs but has also fostered a sense of unity and goodwill within our community. Each year, we have seen our listeners come together to share in the warmth of the season, lighting up the night with voices raised in song. It has been a time to reflect, to celebrate, and to create memories that last a lifetime.

The decision to postpone Carols by Candlelight to 2025 was not made lightly. Several factors contributed to this difficult choice. Organising an event of this magnitude requires extensive planning, resources, and coordination. Unfortunately, due to unforeseen circumstances and logistical challenges that have arisen, we are unable to secure the necessary arrangements to ensure a successful event of this magnitude.

Many of our beloved artists have experienced scheduling conflicts and other commitments that have made it difficult for them to participate in the event this year. Their contributions have always been central to the magic of Carols by Candlelight, and we would never want to host the event without their incredible talents.

The economic landscape continues to shift, and we have faced increased costs associated with event planning. Balancing our commitment to providing a quality experience with the financial realities has proven to be a significant hurdle.

Let us not forget the importance of coming together, even in challenging times. The essence of Carols by Candlelight has always been about unity, hope, and the joy of giving. We encourage our listeners to carry that spirit forward, whether through small gatherings at home, community outreach, or acts of kindness throughout this festive season.

We will keep you updated on our 2025 event developments and invite your ideas and suggestions. As we look to the future, we remain hopeful that we can find new and innovative ways to celebrate the festive season together.

While we will miss the joy of gathering for SPAR OFM Carols by Candlelight in 2024, we are optimistic about the future and the potential for new traditions to emerge.

The OFM Team

Why OFM

OFM, the Sound of Your Life, is Central South Africa’s premier commercial radio station, offering a mix of music, news, and entertainment. The station celebrates 38 years in the broadcasting industry this year. OFM is part of the Central Media Group, with its head office in Bloemfontein.

The station serves the affluent SEM 7-10 economically active marketplace with a broadcast footprint across the Free State, Northern Cape, southern Gauteng and North West. OFM is synonymous with the people of Central South Africa, and includes a full spectrum of listeners, from urban working moms and dads to corporate professionals, as well as rural communities and agricultural producers.

The station has an incredibly loyal and supportive audience. OFM enjoys one of the highest occurrences of time spent listening to the radio in South Africa. This is achieved by the station’s great music offerings – such as playing listeners their favourite songs on the Request Network and counting down Central South Africa’s 30 biggest hits on the Central SA Top 30.

OFM offers several niche features – including a dedicated agricultural programme with three additional agricultural news updates a day, as well as a dedicated business programme.

Sport is close to OFM listeners’ hearts and is what brings much of Central South Africa together. The station is a proud partner, sponsor, and supporter of the Cheetahs, Griquas and Leopards rugby teams as well as the Knights, Heat and Dragons cricket teams. OFM is committed to living the real good life, while at the same time helping Central South Africans to live their best lives.