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The ultimate weekend road trip: Karyn White is heading to Sun City

A two-hour drive, legendary R&B, and the ultimate Joburg staycation.

Liesl Bartlett
Written by
Liesl Bartlett
City Editor, Time Out Johannesburg & Pretoria
Karyn White
Karyn White Instagram | Karyn White
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Listen, we know Sun City isn't exactly around the corner, but for Johannesburgers, it’s practically our unofficial backyard. Whether it’s a spontaneous day trip or a full-blown out-of-office weekend, there’s a reason we all keep that R556 route on speed dial.

This May, there’s a massive reason to make the two-hour drive: international R&B legend Karyn White is taking over the Sun City Superbowl for a one-night-only Magic Music Sessions show on Saturday, May 2nd.

The perfect itinerary

Why just go for the music when you can make a whole "Time Out" of it? Since the show starts in the evening (gates open at 5 pm), here’s how to angle your weekend:

  • The Saturday Morning Drive: Leave Jozi by 9 am. It’s a smooth two-hour cruise through the Magaliesberg. Grab a coffee in Harties on the way to break the trip.
  • Afternoon Vibes: Check in and head straight to the Valley of Waves. There’s nothing like the "Roaring Lagoon" to wash off the city's dust before a night of soul.
  • The Main Event: Karyn White, the voice behind Superwoman and I’d Rather Be Alone, will be joined by local heavyweights Lira, Vusi Nova, and the soulful Babalwa M. It’s basically the ultimate R&B and Afro-Soul playlist come to life.
  • Late Night Soul: Keep the energy going with sets by Kakanyothe DJ and DJ Nkosh before crashing at one of the resort’s four hotels (or the Vacation Club if you’ve got the points!).

Why we’re making the trip

Vertex Events’ Executive Director, Thato Segaole, says the team is ready to deliver an evening filled with nostalgia, romance, elegance and irresistible rhythm. 

"We are excited to deliver a show that will leave fans wanting more, while creating memories and enjoying timeless music.”

For us in Johannesburg, Sun City has always been the place we go for a little fun outside the city, and we won't hesitate to travel out if the trip is worth it. In this instance, it looks like international greatness is about to meet local brilliance, and this lineup proves it.

Plan your hit-and-run (or Staycation)

  • Date: Saturday, May 2, 2026
  • Travel Time: 2 hours from Sandton/Joburg CBD.
  • Tickets: R790 – R1590 via Webtickets.
  • Time Out Tip: If you're driving back after the show, designate a driver or look for shuttle services, but honestly, after a night of Lira and Karyn White, you’re going to want to wake up to a Sun City breakfast.

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