Out and About in Johannesburg: Things to do this weekend

As we close out May and winter creeps in, don’t be fooled – this city is still buzzing with excitement! The final weekend of the month brings a variety of events to heat things, from live jazz and silent discos to coffee festivals and cocktail masterclasses.

The good news? The forecast looks promising, with the South African Weather Service predicting a dry weekend and temperatures reaching a pleasant 23 degrees Celsius.

For the food enthusiasts, there are plenty of events lined up to satisfy your culinary cravings. And just in case you missed the news, a Johannesburg burger has just been crowned the 8th best burger in the world; definitely a must-try this weekend! 

Johannesburg North

Lovers & Friends

• Saturday, 30 May | 6pm
• Location: The Beach Rivonia, 19 Wessel Rd, Edenburg
• Cost: From R200 via Howler

Lovers & Friends returns to Jozi with DWSON, Teddy Tumi, K Breezy, and DJ E, among others, for an evening of music and connection. Expect the very best in R&B, throwbacks, and timeless hits.

The Jo’burg Coffee Festival

• Friday, 29 – Sunday, 31 May | 9am
• Location: Fourways Mall rooftop, 11 Ruby Cl, Witkoppen, Sandton
• Cost: From R160 via iTickets

With temperatures beginning to drop across Johannesburg, the timing could not be better. Festivalgoers can look forward to speciality coffee roasters, premium coffee equipment, live brewing demonstrations, and a range of brew tools that will give deeper insight into coffee-making.

Also read: It’s coffee o’clock: The countdown to Jo’burg Coffee Festival begins

Last Sunday Silent Disco

• Sunday, 31 May | 3pm
• Location: Radisson RED Johannesburg Rosebank, Cnr of Oxford and, Oxford Parks, 4 Parks Blvd, Dunkeld
• Cost: R180 via Quicket

Three DJs. Three genres. Three choices. One proper Jozi afternoon. Dance freely, enjoy the music, and have a good time. Food and drinks will be sold at the events, and all headphones need to be returned.

Johannesburg West

Sunset Music Series presents Lloyiso

• Sunday, 31 May | 1pm
• Location: Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden, Malcolm Rd, Poortview, Roodepoort
• Cost: From R195 via Webtickets

Music, nature and a picnic basket full of food – could there be a better way to spend a Sunday? Picnic baskets and bags are allowed; however, cooler boxes and your own drinks are prohibited, as bars will be provided.

Back to the future

• Saturday, 30 May | 12pm
• Location: Tiger's Milk, Silverstar Casino, Falls Rd, Diswilmar AH, Krugersdorp
• Cost: R100 via Howler

For those in the mood for a little nostalgia, this evening features the best old school RnB, Hip Hop, Soul, Classic Hits, and Soulful House tunes from back in the day.

Johannesburg Central

Gbedu Nights: Africa Month Edition

• Friday, 29 May | 7pm
• Location: Mamakashaka and friends, 5 De Beer St, Braamfontein
• Cost: From R150 via Fixr

Gbedu Nights is a vibrant celebration of Africa through sound, movement, and shared energy on the dancefloor. Expect a carefully curated mix of Afrobeats, Afropop, Bongo Flava, Dancehall, Kizomba, Kuduro, and more, all designed to keep you moving all night long. If you haven’t secured your ticket online, a limited number will be available at the door for R250.

Yonela Mnana

• Saturday, 30 May | 6:30pm
• Location: Jozi Gold Brewing Company, 81 De Korte St, Braamfontein
• Cost: From R350 via Quicket

If you haven't noticed yet, live jazz is making a vibrant comeback in Jozi's nightlife, and it's being led by an exciting new demographic: Gen Z. If this resonates with your idea of the perfect night out, you won't want to miss Yonela Mnana. This acclaimed South African jazz pianist, composer, vocalist, educator, and scholar expertly blends isiXhosa heritage, Sepedi influences, Catholic choral traditions, and contemporary jazz into his captivating performances.

Also read: Groove fatigue: Why Gen Z is reclaiming Johannesburg’s live jazz scene

Midrand 

Cocktail Masterclass: Mixology 101

• Saturday, 30 May | 2pm
• Location: The Noble Experiment, Shed 7, Prison Break Market, 10 MacMillan Rd, Glenferness AH, Midrand
• Cost: From R495 via Quicket

A 90-minute deep dive into the art of mixology, led by an expert mixologist who will guide you through crafting three signature cocktails and creating a layered shooter. 

Jacaranda FM’s The Ultimate Feel Good Party

• Friday, 29 May | 7pm
• Location: Prison Break Market, 10 MacMillan Rd, Glenferness AH, Midrand
• Cost: R150 via Quicket

Jacaranda FM is celebrating its 40th birthday, and you’re invited! Party Nights with Ankletap will be broadcasting live, promising incredible energy, great music, and feel-good vibes all around. Expect a DJ line-up including DJ Zinhle, DJ Jazzy D, Rob Forbes, and more. This is one celebration you don’t want to miss!

Time Out Insider Info: The dress code for the event is a 'Dash of 80’s'.

SKOON. x Woolworths Skincare Masterclass

• Friday, 29 May | 12pm
• Location: Woolworths, Mall of Africa, Magwa Cres & Lone Creek Crescent, Waterval 5-Ir, Midrand
• Cost: From R250 via Quicket

As winter approaches and our skin typically starts to get drier, SKOON. Consultants will guide you through the essentials of achieving healthy, glowing skin in an interactive and relaxed setting. Attendees will also receive a goodie bag valued at R500. 

Johannesburg South 

The Portuguese Festival

• Friday, 29 – Sunday, 31 May | 5pm
• Location: Johannesburg Expo Centre, Nasrec rd, corner Rand Show Rd, Nasrec
• Cost: From R80 via Computicket

Experience a 'Euro summer' right here at home! Over three days, immerse yourself in the vibrant celebration of Portuguese culture, featuring exhilarating performances, authentic cuisine, live music, and interactive cultural exhibits. 

East Rand

Outdoor X

• Friday, 29 May – Sunday, 31 May | 10am
• Location: Idlewild Country Estate, Moonlight Road, Olifantsfontein
• Cost: From R130 via Quicket

Whether you're looking to spruce up your home, plan your next adventure, or simply kick back with a refreshing beverage, this three-day expo has something for everyone. From caravans and bespoke furniture to 4×4 gear, cocktails, and craft beers from over 600 premium lifestyle brands.