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Out and About in Johannesburg: Best things to do this weekend

A guide to the best things to do and places to go this weekend in Johannesburg, from Friday, 31 July to Sunday, 2 August.

Nhlalala Mthembi
Written by
Nhlalala Mthembi
City Expert, Time Out Johannesburg
Johannesburg South Africa CBD view at night
Paul Saad | Johannesburg CBD view at night
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Looking for things to do in Johannesburg this weekend? We’ve got you!

August kicks off with a packed weekend of entertainment across Johannesburg. Whatever your plans, you’ll find no shortage of things to do this weekend, with live music, comedy, theatrical experiences, festivals and family-friendly activities happening across Johannesburg. 

Weekend weather

Don’t let the cold mornings keep you indoors. Johannesburg can look forward to another sunny winter weekend as temperatures will start at 4 °C before rising to a comfortable 18 °C later in the day. The clear skies provide the perfect excuse to get out and explore, but keep a jacket or jersey handy for the colder start and end to the day.

There’s no need to stay indoors this weekend. Expect a weekend packed with live performances, talent shows, school battles, comedy and plenty of experiences worth adding to your plans.

 Friday 

  • Min: 4 °C 
  • Max: 17 °C 
  • Weather conditions: Sunny

Saturday 

  • Min: 5 °C 
  • Max: 18 °C 
  • Weather conditions: Sunny

Sunday 

  • Min: 8 °C 
  • Max: 18 °C 
  • Weather conditions: Sunny

Johannesburg North

Soke: Celebrate Africa 

  • Saturday, 2 August, 1pm
  • Location: Maracana, 58 Wierda Road East, Wierda Valley
  • Cost: R199 - R249 via Quicket 

Immerse yourself in sights, sounds and flavours of Africa at Soke: Celebrate Africa, a vibrant festival of live music, dance, fashion, food and art. Enjoy a packed programme of live performances, interactive activities and cultural experiences that invite visitors to celebrate the richness of African heritage. Come for the live entertainment, stay for the delicious food and soak up the vibrant atmosphere, there’s something for everyone to enjoy at this celebration of African culture.

Soke
Instagram: soke_africaSoke: Celebrate Africa

Made in Jozi Festival 

  • Saturday, 1 August, 12pm
  • Location: The River Cabin, Fourways
  • Cost: R500 via Howler  

Celebrate Johannesburg’s vibrant music culture at Made in Jozi Festival, a one-day music event showcasing some of South Africa’s top performers in amapiano, house and hip-hop. Beyond the star-studded lineup of Kabza De Small, Kelvin Momo, Sun-El Musician, Sam Deep, Jazzworx & Thukuthela and more, expect gourmet food, curated bars and a vibrant celebration of Johannesburg’s creative spirit.

Made in Jozi
Instagram: madeinjozi.saMade in Jozi Festival

Movie Premiere: Spider-Man: Brand New Day 

  • Friday, 31 July, 6:30pm
  • Location: CineCentre Killarney, Killarney Mall
  • Cost: R250 via Quicket  

Catch one of the first screenings of Spider-Man: Brand New Day while supporting the SAHETI Debutantes 2026 at this special premiere event. Tom Holland and Zendaya reprise their roles as Peter Parker and MJ in the latest instalment, where a mysterious new threat puts Spider-Man to his limits. As well as catching the film on release day, attendees can enjoy a fun-filled evening with prizes and exciting giveaways throughout the event.

Spider-Man: Brand New Day
Ster-KinekorSpider-Man: Brand New Day

Sundowner Concert 2026

  • Saturday, 1 August, 3pm
  • Location: Deutsche Internationale Schule Johannesburg, Parktown
  • Cost: R100 Learners, R200 Adults via Quicket 

Enjoy an afternoon of live orchestral music while supporting a good cause at Sundowner Concert 2026, an annual fundraising event organised by the Deutsche Internationale Schule Johannesburg. Conducted by renowned maestro Richard Cock, audiences can enjoy performances by the DSJ Orchestra, school choirs, marimba ensembles, dancers and soloists Hannah Horsten and Cooper Mlokoti. Warm up with a cup of gluhwein and winter treats and enjoy an afternoon of live orchestral performances.

Orchestra
Yori MeirizanClose-up of hands playing the violin in an orchestra, with sheet music visible on stage

Hush Money Funny 3.0 Menage a Trois

  • Friday, 31 July, 7pm
  • Location: Hush Money, 72 Grant Avenue, Norwood
  • Cost: Free Winter Special, R100 Adults via Quicket 

Comedy meets music at Hush Money Funny 3.0: Menage a Trois, which promises to bring plenty of laughs to one of Norwood’s favourite nightlife venues. The lineup includes Khabane Moloi, Bongani Dube and Mbali Gudazi, with each comedian delivering their own unique comedic style. Expect bold punchlines, relatable humour and the kind of comedy that have you talking long after the show ends.

Hush Money
Instagram: hushmoneynorwoodHush Money

The Gauntlet at James & Ethel Gray Park 

  • Saturday, 1 August, 9am
  • Location: James & Ethel Gray Park, Melrose
  • Cost: R140 via Howler 

Think you’ve got what it takes? See how far your agility can take you at this action-packed challenge. From towering slides and climbing walls to inflatable tunnels and obstacle challenges, The Gauntlet transforms James & Ethel Gray Park into a giant inflatable obstacle course for all ages. Forget the stopwatch - The Gauntlet is all about having fun, making it the perfect outing for families, friends and anyone looking to swap the gym for an action-packed day outdoors. Take a breather between obstacles and refuel at the on-site food stalls while watching the action unfold.

The Gauntlet
Instagram: the.gauntlet.saThe Gauntlet inflatable obstacle course

Johannesburg Central

The Jury Experience - The Killer AI 

  • Saturday, 1 August, 6pm
  • Location: John Kani Theatre, Market Theatre, Newtown
  • Cost: R670 - R745 via Feverup 

Become more than just a spectator at The Jury Experience, where you’ll join the jury and help decide the outcome of a gripping courtroom drama. The case centres on a fatal self-driving car accident, challenging the audience to hear witness testimony, weigh the evidence, and decide the fate of artificial intelligence. Blurring the line between theatre and real-world questions, this production leaves you questioning the role of artificial intelligence long after the courtroom empties.  

ICYMI: Grab your voting paddles Joburg: The Market Theatre summons you for Jury duty

The Jury Experience
Instagram: thejuryexperienceThe Jury Experience: Death by AI: Who Pays the Price?

Maleh Live at Jozi Gold Brewing Company 

  • Saturday, 1 August, 6:30pm
  • Location: 81 De Korte St, Braamfontein
  • Cost: R350 via Quicket 

Settle in for an intimate evening with acclaimed Lesotho-born singer-songwriter Maleh as she blends her soulful sound live at Jozi Gold Brewing Company. Known for her powerful vocals and signature blend of Afro-soul and Afro-pop, Maleh will perform beloved tracks like Baba and Umusa, and more songs from her latest album Dithapelo. With its intimate atmosphere, the Jazz at Jozi Gold series is the perfect setting to experience Maleh’s heartfelt songs that celebrate healing and love.

Maleh
Instagram: jozigoldbrewcoMaleh live at Jozi Gold Brewing Company

Johannesburg East

Gimme Gimme Vol.3 

  • Friday, 31 July, 6pm
  • Location: Bailey’s Bedfordview, 61C Van Buuren Rd
  • Cost: R100 via Howler 

Dance the night away to all your favourite throwback anthems at Gimme Gimme Vol.3. With nostalgic pop hits, R&B favourites and dancefloor classics, with high-energy DJs guaranteed to keep you moving all night. Round off your week with nostalgic anthems, good company and non-stop dancing on the dance floor. 

dance floor with lights retro boots animation party celebration image
GiovanniSeabraDance floor with lights and retro boots

Johannesburg South

Battle of the Schools 

  • Saturday, 1 August, 10am
  • Location: Mondeor High School, Mondeor
  • Cost: R80 - R100 via Computicket 

Expect fierce competition and unforgettable performances as school dance crews battle it out with high-energy performances packed with skill, creativity and team spirit. Organised by Soweto’s Finest, Battle of the Schools welcomes talented learners with exciting dance battles, live entertainment and a lively celebration of youth culture. From passionate supporters to dance enthusiasts, you’ll be treated to impressive choreography, outstanding performances and an unbeatable atmosphere from start to finish.

Battle of the Schools
Instagram: battleoftheschoolsBattle of the Schools

Soweto Comedy Festival - The Heavy Hitters 

  • Friday, 31 July to Saturday, 1 August, 7:30pm
  • Location: Gibson Kente Theatre at Soweto Theatre
  • Cost: R200 General admission, R350 VIP via Webtickets 

Some of South Africa’s comedy heavyweights come together for two nights of laughter at Soweto Comedy Festival: The Heavy Hitters. With a lineup packed with quick-fire jokes, relatable stories and nonstop entertainment, this is the ideal way to spend the weekend. Kick off the weekend with Dillan Oliphant, Jay Boogie, Modipane A-Lister and Zicco Sithole on Friday, followed by Jason Goliath, Nicholas Goliath, PelePele Mchunu and Kedibone Mulaudzi on Saturday. For comedy enthusiasts, this all-star lineup promises to be an evening of unforgettable laughs from start to finish. 

2231950307
Jacob WackerhausenCrowd laughing at a comedy show

Beyond Jozi

Scrubs Got Talent 

  • Friday, 31 July, 6pm
  • Location: Aula Theatre, University Rd, Elandspoort 357-Jr, Pretoria
  • Cost: R65 via Quicket 

See a different side of tomorrow’s doctors as medical students take centre stage for Scrubs Got Talent. Watch the aspiring doctors swap their textbooks for stage as they showcase their creativity through music, dance, comedy and unforgettable performances. It’s the perfect opportunity to support tomorrow’s health professionals while enjoying an evening that celebrates creativity , confidence and the vibrant spirit of student life.

Open Mic Night
Matthias Wagner I UnsplashOpen Mic Night

For a guide to events taking place in Johannesburg this weekend and further into August, we've got you covered.

RECOMMENDED:

📍 The best things to do in Johannesburg
🛏️ Where to stay in Johannesburg
🏨 The best hotels in Johannesburg
🍽 The best restaurants in Johannesburg
🍺 The best pubs and bars in Johannesburg

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