What's on in Johannesburg this March

March in Joburg is that sweet spot where the summer heat finally takes a backseat to a crisp autumn breeze. From open-air festivals to intimate live sessions, discover the best things to do in Johannesburg this Month.

Our ultimate gig guide covers the city’s top concerts, cultural events, and nightlife as the autumn season kicks off. Don't miss out on the rhythm of the city. Plan your month here.

Johannesburg North

Roots of Mzansi Festival 

• Saturday, March 14, from 4 pm
• Maracanà, Sandton
• Tickets from R250 on Quicket

The Roots of Mzanzi Festival returns to Maracanà in Sandton, bringing together some of South Africa’s biggest names for a one-night celebration of the country’s sound. The lineup includes Zee Nxumalo, Dlala Thukzin and Tyler ICU, alongside Chrizz Beatz, Ryan The DJ, Twins on Decks, Kristin Singh & SJ, Hurshy On Decks, and more, with music spanning Amapiano, hip hop, and beyond. Doors open at 4 pm with non-stop performances running into the early hours. 

Macaburlesque

• Friday, March 13, from 5.30 pm
• Chiesa di Pazzo Lupi, Melville
• Tickets from R220 on Quicket

Macaburlesque by Chiesa di Pazzo Lupi is a dark, decadent cabaret where burlesque meets the macabre, blending sensuality, satire and gothic spectacle. Expect a richly layered evening of neo-burlesque, physical theatre, live or curated soundscapes, and character-driven performances that move between the seductive, the grotesque and the darkly humorous. Each show is uniquely curated for the night, creating an immersive cabaret experience that is bold, strange and unapologetically theatrical.

The Owl Who Was Afraid of the Dark

• Tuesday, March 17, to Friday, 24 April, from 5.30 pm
• Chiesa di Pazzo Lupi, Melville
• Tickets from R100 on Quicket

The Owl Who Was Afraid of the Dark, based on the beloved children’s book by Jill Tomlinson, comes to the stage at National Children's Theatre with a heartwarming story about courage and curiosity. The production follows Plop, a baby barn owl who fears the dark, as he meets a cast of magical nighttime characters who help him discover the wonder and beauty of the night. This charming, family-friendly show is perfect for children aged 4–10 and runs from 17 March to 24 April. 

Jazz In The Lights

• Saturday, March 21, from 10 am
• Johannesburg Zoo, Parkview
• Tickets from R100 on Webtickets

Jazz in the Lights returns to Joburg Zoo on 21 March 2026 for a day of live jazz, featuring local and international acts. The family-friendly festival combines soulful music with interactive experiences for kids, including zoo activities, while celebrating both emerging talent and legendary artists. VIP and standard tickets are available, making it a perfect outing for jazz lovers of all ages. 

Johannesburg East

A Night With The Stars

• Saturday, March 28,  to Sunday, March 29, from 7 pm
• The Big Top Arena, Carnival City
• Tickets from R250 on Webtickets

A Night with the Stars: Lloyiso brings one of South Africa’s most powerful contemporary voices, Lloyiso, to the stage for an intimate live performance. Blending R&B, soul and pop, the show showcases his signature emotional songwriting and soaring vocals in a carefully curated concert experience. Expect a soulful evening of heartfelt music and refined musicianship at the Big Top Arena. 

Big Steezee – Night in Lagos: Retro/Y2K Edition

• Saturday, March 28, from 3 pm
• Focus Rooms, Modderfontein
• Tickets from R400 on Webtickets

Big Steezee – Night in Lagos: Retro/Y2K Edition is a high-energy cultural party that blends music, fashion, and networking into one vibrant celebration. Headlined by South African rapper Kwesta and Afrobeats star Mr P, the event brings together Afrobeats, throwback Y2K vibes and a diverse crowd from across Africa and beyond. Expect a lively atmosphere where entertainment and social connection meet on the dance floor.

Johannesburg West

Maropeng Human Evolution Family Fun Walk

• Saturday, March 21, from 7 am
• Maropeng Visitor Centre, Cradle of Humankind
• Tickets from R150 on Webtickets

The Maropeng Human Evolution Family Fun Walk invites families to enjoy an active morning while exploring one of South Africa’s most important heritage sites at the Maropeng Visitor Centre. Participants can walk together through the scenic grounds while learning about human origins and celebrating our shared history. It’s a relaxed, family-friendly outing that combines fitness, education and a memorable day in the Cradle of Humankind. 

Earth Hour: Family Outdoor Movie Night 

• Saturday, March 28, from 4 pm
• Walter Sisulu Botanical Gardens, Roodepoort
• Tickets from R50 on Webtickets

Earth Hour: Family Outdoor Movie Night invites families to celebrate Earth Hour with an outdoor screening of the animated favourite The Lorax. Hosted by WWF South Africa at the Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden, the evening promises a relaxed picnic-style movie experience under the stars. Bring blankets, enjoy food stalls and settle in for a feel-good night celebrating nature. 

Johannesburg Central

Victoria Yards Wine Walk

• Saturday, March 21, from 10 am
• Victoria Yards, Lorentzville
• Tickets from R100 on Quicket

Victoria Yards Wine Walk invites wine lovers to explore 15+ South African wine producers in the creative precinct of Victoria Yards. Enjoy a complimentary tasting glass, live music, and food vendors while strolling through indoor and outdoor spaces in a relaxed, family- and pet-friendly atmosphere. The festival runs from 10:00 to 16:00 on 21 March 2026, offering a day of wine, culture, and community in one of Joburg’s most vibrant creative hubs.

Thakzin Summer School

• Tuesday, March 24, from 8:45 am
• Wits Theatre, Braamfontein
• Tickets are free on Webtickets

Thakzin Summer School, hosted by Wits Music, offers an immersive learning experience with acclaimed DJ and producer Thakzin. Taking place at the Wits Theatre, the session explores music production, DJing and the creative process behind modern Afro-house and electronic music. Expect interactive discussions, live demonstrations and industry insights for aspiring artists and music fans alike.

Human Rights Festival

• Thursday, March 26, to Sunday, March 29, from 9 am
• Constitution Hill, Braamfontein
• Tickets are free on Webtickets

The Human Rights Festival returns to Constitution Hill for its eighth edition, bringing together activism, art and dialogue. The free multi-day event features workshops, film screenings, markets, live performances and the Sounds of Freedom music programme alongside discussions on social justice and human rights. Highlights include the iconic 1000 Drums for Solidarity and the WeThePeople Walk, which invite the public to engage, learn, and stand up for change.

Nathi Live at Untitled Basement

• Thursday, March 21, from 6 pm
• Untitled Basement, Braamfontein
• Tickets from R350 on Quicket

Nathi Live at Untitled Basement brings acclaimed singer-songwriter Nathi Mankayi to an intimate Johannesburg stage on 21 March 2026. Fans can expect an evening of soulful vocals and personal storytelling, featuring highlights from his Usiba Lwe Gazi album and a glimpse of new material, musically directed alongside Surprise Ndzimande. Doors open at 6 pm for a night of magical music, connection, and celebration at Untitled Basement.

Soweto

Spirit Fest SA

• Saturday, March 28, from 11 am
• Urban Lifestyle Events, Soweto
• Tickets from R100 on Webtickets

Spirit Fest SA brings a lively celebration of premium spirits to Urban Lifestyle Events in Soweto. The festival showcases a wide range of local and international brands with tastings of whisky, gin, vodka, rum and tequila, alongside speciality cocktails. Expect live music, kasi-inspired food and a vibrant social atmosphere in the heart of Soweto.

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