1435930779
Wirestock | Johannesburg, South Africa – September 28, 2013: A group of African women in traditional garb costumes performing dances at a festival
Wirestock

Events: What’s on in Johannesburg

Johannesburg's event calendar is hotting up with live music, fun events and theatre galore. Here's what's hot and not to be missed in the City of Gold!

Liesl Bartlett
Written by: Poelano Malema
Advertising

From live music under city lights to art fairs, food markets, theatre, and cultural festivals – Johannesburg is alive with events that celebrate its creativity, diversity, and unstoppable energy. Whether you’re into jazz at sunset, rooftop parties, cutting-edge exhibitions, or family-friendly weekend plans, our curated guide brings you the best of what’s happening in the City of Gold. Stay plugged in and never miss a moment.

RECOMMENDED

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

What's on in Johannesburg

  • Things to do

Decorex Africa, the pinnacle event of the 2025 African design calendar, is returning to the Sandton Convention Centre from 24 to 27 July. This four-day celebration of design, innovation, and creativity will showcase over 300 exhibitors across five distinct halls, all under the theme 'The Future of Living.’ 

Whether you're an industry professional or a design enthusiast, this is the place to be for cutting-edge trends and fresh ideas. 

Best of all, entry is free for children under 12, and convenient parking is available at the venue.

  • Things to do

Immerse yourself in the soulful sounds of jazz at the Business Premium Jazz Festival. The concert will take place at the Big Top Arena on Saturday, 2 August 2025 at 19h00 at Carnival City. 

The line-up will feature an all female line-up in honour of Women's Month. Lira and Amanda Black are amongst some of artists that will be performing. 

Prepare for a night of music, sistahood and great vibes. 

Tickets cost R500. 

Advertising
  • Things to do

The Good Life Show, Africa’s premier event dedicated to food, drink, and conscious living, is coming to Johannesburg.

Hosted at the Kyalami International Convention Centre from 1 to 3 August, this three-day event will showcase hundreds of plant-based, free-from, natural, organic, wellness, and sustainable products available for sampling and purchase.

Visitors can explore a wide range of exhibitors, attend informative talks and demonstrations, and experience the latest trends in health-conscious and eco-friendly living.

Convenient parking will be available on-site for R25.

  • Things to do

Mark your calendars: from 30 to 31 August, the Hey Neighbour Festival returns to Legends Adventure Farm just outside Pretoria, bringing two days of high-energy performances, global music icons, and vibrant summer-festival vibes.

Set to be one of the biggest music events near Johannesburg this year, the festival boasts a stellar line-up featuring international superstars like Doja Cat, Central Cee, and Leon Thomas, alongside top local talent.

Advertising
  • Things to do

The Festival of Motoring has evolved into the largest industry-supported automotive show in South Africa – and across the continent. It returns to Johannesburg this August at the iconic Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit and International Convention Centre.

Running from 29 to 31 August, this three-day event will feature over 100 exhibitors showcasing a wide array of automotive products, services, lifestyle offerings, and custom vehicles.

Attendees can also enjoy food, entertainment, and more than 10,000 test drives led by professional drivers.

  • Things to do
  • Festivals

The Standard Bank Joy of Jazz festival returns to the Sandton Convention Centre in Johannesburg, for its most ambitious edition yet — three full days of genre-defining performances, global icons, bold collaborations, and an elevated celebration of jazz’s enduring legacy.

With over 60 artists from 15 countries across four stages, this year’s festival puts a spotlight on powerful women in jazz, visionary Pan-African sounds, and cutting-edge global talent. Highlights include Esperanza Spalding, Lakecia Benjamin, Oumou Sangaré, Meshell Ndegeocello, Thandi Ntuli, Jazzmeia Horn, The Baylor Project, Amanda Black, Tresor, and a full showcase of Standard Bank Young Artist Award winners.

From soul-stirring solo sets to orchestral grandeur, audiences will experience an immersive musical journey rooted in African heritage and shaped by contemporary voices from across the world.

Tickets are available at TICKETMASTER,

  • R1 350 – Day Pass

  • R2 250 – 2-Day Pass (Fri & Sat or Sat & Sun)

  • R3 250 – Full Weekend Pass

Standard Bank cardholders enjoy up to 15% off (limited to 2 tickets per person, subject to availability; T&Cs apply). Hospitality packages also available on the Joy of Jazz website

Advertising
  • Things to do

CHICAGO is back – and it's bolder, sassier, and more sensational than ever!

Step into the dazzling world of the roaring 1920s with this electrifying, jazz-soaked musical that tells a riveting tale of fame, fortune, and all that jazz.

Featuring seductive choreography, iconic music, and razor-sharp wit, CHICAGO brings its signature razzle-dazzle to the Teatro at Montecasino from 3 October to 9 November.

  • Things to do

Multi-award-winning international star Travis Scott will be hitting the stage in Johannesburg later this year. 

The rapper would be performing in Johannesburg as part of his Circus Maximus World Tour. 

His show will take place on 11 October 2025 at the First National Bank Stadium, which has a capacity of over 90,000. 

The musician has also announced that he would be performing in India, South Korea, China and Japan. The shows will take place from October until November across the different countries.

Travis' world tour started in October 2023. 

Recommended
    You may also like
    You may also like
    Advertising