Out and About in Johannesburg: Things to do this weekend

Looking for things to do in Johannesburg this coming weekend? We’ve got you! 

This Mandela Day weekend, Johannesburg has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to give back to your community, catch a live show or explore a new neighbourhood, there’s plenty of ways to spend your time.

From charity fun runs and family-friendly theatre productions to live music and World Cup Final fan experiences, there’s no shortage of things to do across Johannesburg and in the weeks ahead.

Before the winter school holidays wrap up, there’s still time to squeeze in one last family outing. For even more family-friendly ideas before school holidays end, be sure to check out our winter school holiday guide.

Now read on to make the most of your weekend in your city!

Also read: How to spend your 67 minutes this Mandela Day in Johannesburg

Weekend Weather

Expect another sunny weekend but don’t be fooled as winter is still firmly in charge. Mornings will be crisp, with temperatures hovering around 7°C before climbing to a pleasant daytime high of 22°C. The mornings and evenings may call for a warm coat, but the sunny afternoons make the perfect time to get out and explore Johannesburg.

Friday

• Min: 7°C 
• Max: 20°C
• Weather conditions: Sunny

Saturday

• Min: 8°C
• Max: 22°C
• Weather conditions: Sunny

Sunday

• Min: 9°C
• Max: 21°C
• Weather conditions: Sunny

Johannesburg North

South London ft ReaDaSoul

• Friday, 17 July, 8pm
• Location: London, Rosebank
• Cost: R150 via Howler

For a night of Afro-House, head to London in Rosebank where DJ ReaDaSoul is headlining the event hosted by South London. Known for his soulful productions and crowd-pleasing sets, ReaDaSoul will headline a night of deep grooves and infectious rhythms, keeping the energy high until late.

The Adventures of Thumbelina

• Friday, 17 July to Sunday 19 July,  Various Times
• Location: Theatre On The Square, Sandton, West Street, Sandown
• Cost: R140 via Webtickets 

Introduce the little ones to the enchanting world of The Adventures of Thumbelina, a magical retelling of Hans Christian Andersen’s beloved fairy tale brought to life. Presented by On Cue Theatre, the production follows Thumbelina as she embarks on a heartwarming adventure with larger-than-life characters, enchanting music and plenty of magical moments. Designed for children aged four to eight, it is the perfect family outing for the last weekend of the winter school holidays.

Nelson Mandela Fun Day

• Saturday, 18 July, 10am
• Location: 27 Boxes, 76a 4th Ave, Melville
• Cost: R100 via Quicket 

Celebrate Mandela Day with a family-friendly day out. The programme includes live entertainment, activities for all ages, food stalls and community experiences. The event is a meaningful way to honour Nelson Mandela’s legacy while enjoying the day with family.

Johannesburg West

My Walk @ Emeris Ruimsig

• Saturday, 18 July, 8am
• Location: 144 Peter Rd, Ruimsig, Rooderpoort 
• Cost: R100 via Quicket 

Swap your usual morning run for a Mandela Day event that combines fitness with supporting a good cause. Every step counts. Whether you walk or run, you’ll be helping My Walk provide children in need with durable school shoes made from recycled materials. Bring the whole family along for a morning of fitness, community and celebration, as those who finish the run will receive medals and prizes on offer.

Johannesburg East

MANDELAPOOLZA

• Saturday, 18 July, 6pm
• Location: Bailey’s Live - Bedfordview, 61 Van Buuren Rd, Bedfordview
• Cost: R150 via Quicket

Spend Mandela Day enjoying live music and fundraising at MANDELAPALOOZA. Hosted by Nick Hamman, the fundraiser features South African rock favourites Shortsaw, CrashCarBurn and The Black Cat Bones. Every ticket sold contributes to raising funds and awareness for families that are affected by a rare genetic condition, giving you the opportunity to enjoy live music and support a good cause.

Johannesburg Central 

Buskaid at the Linder

• Sunday, 19 July, 3pm
• Location: Wits Linder Auditorium, 27 St Andrews Rd, Parktown
• Cost: R230 via Quicket 

The beloved Buskaid Soweto String Ensemble takes to the stage on Sunday as they perform a vibrant programme that blends European classical music with Afro jazz, Afropop, Kwela and Amapiano. Featuring talented young musicians from Soweto, the concert showcases the skill and versatility that have made Buskaid one of South Africa’s best-known youth music ensembles.

Afro Visionary Movie Nights 

• Saturday, 18 July, 6:30pm
• Location: The Bioscope Independent Cinema, 44 Stanley Ave, Milpark
• Cost: R180 via Quicket 

Afro Visionary Movie Night brings together film lovers for an evening of compelling cinema. Dedicated to African stories and independent filmmaking, the screening series offers audiences the chance to discover emerging talent and connect with fellow film lovers.

Beyond Jozi

World Cup Fan Park 

• Sunday, 19 July, 5pm
• Location: 1000 Voortrekker Rd, Thaba Tshwane, Pretoria, 0027
• Cost: R80 early bird, R100 general admission via Howler 

Watch Spain and Argentina go head-to-head in World Cup final on the big screen as they battle it out for football’s biggest prize. In addition to the live screening, the event includes live entertainment, football-themed activities, and a range of food and drink options. The event promises to be a festive atmosphere for football fans.

Mandela Day Fun Run

• Saturday, 18 July, 7am
• Location: Household Christ,  691 Blesbok St, Mooikloof, Pretoria
• Cost: R75 via Quicket 

Get moving this Mandela Day by joining a charity fun run in support of the Thithukisa Community Initiative. Open to runners and walkers of all fitness levels, the event is an accessible way to mark Mandela Day. The fun run is a chance to get active while supporting initiatives that benefit vulnerable communities. 

Brenda Mtambo Live Experience - AmaHubo KaGogo

• Saturday, 18 July, 7pm
• Location: Theatre of Marcellus, Emperors Palace, 64 Jones Rd, Kempton Park
• Cost: R300–R550 via Webtickets  

Award-winning singer Brenda Mtambo presents AmaHubo KaGogo - The Live Experience, a live concert celebrating storytelling through songs. Rooted in the hymns of her childhood and inspired by her grandmother, Brenda Mtambo combines Afro-soul, gospel and modern African music in a performance that celebrates faith, heritage and family traditions. Backed by a live band, Mtambo’s performance combines timeless hymns with original music inspired by songs kept alive across generations.

 

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