On the eastern edge of the Johannesburg CBD sits one of the city’s oldest hotels... and possibly one of its most haunted. With Halloween creeping closer, we had to ask: Is the Troyeville Hotel really haunted?
While we won’t know for sure until someone spends the night, one thing’s for certain: the Troyeville Hotel rooftop is transforming into Joburg’s most haunted hangout this weekend for Spooky Spring Break.
Presented by Picnic, the duo behind Johannesburg’s most creative new event series, this monthly rooftop romp blends theatrical visuals, AI-generated holograms, and a wicked sense of humour, quickly cementing its status as the city’s unofficial hub for high-vibe eccentricity.
What makes this party especially spellbinding is the story behind it. Founders Simon (“Psi”) and James built Picnic as a two-man show powered entirely by AI. Every ghostly hologram, haunting beat, and cheeky campaign is homegrown tech magic, proof that Joburg creativity doesn’t need a big budget to make a big impact.
“Parties should be more than a bar and a DJ,” says Simon, and Spooky Spring Break promises to be exactly that.
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The lineup includes Psi and PM Progressions, plus a surprise guest DJ who knows exactly how to raise the dead (and your heart rate). Costumes aren’t just encouraged, they’re basically a survival requirement. Show up costume-less and you’ll be sent straight to the face-painting corner (don’t say we didn’t warn you).
The team has thought of everything: a Feast of the Undead with late-night bites, discounted Uber rides (no broom required), and overnight stay options for anyone who wants to keep haunting until sunrise.
So, if you’re curious about what really goes bump in the night at the Troyeville Hotel, gather your coven, polish your potions, and get ready for a rooftop ritual where beats meet boos, and everyone’s welcome (as long as you’re over 23).
Event details
What: Spooky Spring Break at the Haunted Troyeville Hotel
When: Saturday 1 November 2025 from 7 pm to 2 am
Where: The Troyeville Hotel Rooftop, Troyeville, Johannesburg
Tickets: Quicket or whysoserious.club/tickets
Dress Code: Costumes strongly encouraged (there are prizes!)
Time Out Johannesburg is giving away two tickets to this haunted rooftop bash! Keep an eye on our Instagram and Facebook pages for details, and you could be conjuring your best costume under the Joburg stars, on us.
Need more Halloween inspo? Check out our guide to where to get spooky in Johannesburg this Halloween
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