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

  • Sport and fitness

The world champions are coming to Jozi! The Springboks will take on arch-rivals Australia at Ellis Park Stadium on 16 August, in what promises to be a high-stakes encounter as part of the Castle Lager Rugby Championship.

Fresh off their global triumph, the Boks will be looking to dominate on home turf – and there's no better place than the iconic Ellis Park to do it.

Tickets start from R525, so act quickly to avoid missing out.

Time Out Tip: Bring the gees and rock your Labokbok as you back the boys!

  • Things to do

Celebrating a remarkable 25 years in music, Selaelo Selota continues to captivate audiences with his masterful storytelling through song. From his debut album Painted Faces to his latest release Pelong, Selaelo has established himself as a leading voice in South African music, blending heartfelt lyrics with rich melodies that speak to the nation’s soul.

Selaelo Selota 25 Tour features the magnificent Judith Sephuma. It marks this significant milestone with a special performance showcasing his eight influential albums and offering fans a deeper, more intimate side of his artistry.

This unforgettable concert will take place on 23 August at the Theatre of Marcellus, Emperors Palace.

Advertising
  • Things to do

Comic Con Africa returns to the Johannesburg Expo Centre (Nasrec) from 28 to 31 August, bringing together fans of pop culture, gaming, and cosplay. The four-day event features appearances by both international and local celebrities, with opportunities for autographs and photos.

Visitors can expect a full schedule of activities, including eSports tournaments, gaming promotions, cosplay showcases, and a wide range of merchandise from across fandoms.

  • 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.

Advertising
  • Things to do

Jozi’s premier countryside celebration of wine, food, and music – the Groves and Vineyards Festival – is making its much-anticipated return to Casalinga on 6 and 7 September.

Festival-goers can look forward to wine tastings from top local estates, live music performances, and a delicious selection of artisanal food. With a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere and dedicated kids' entertainment, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

  • Things to do

Welcome to Bollywood is a three-day celebration of Indian culture, cuisine, music, and fashion – and the largest Indian cultural festival in Johannesburg.

Taking place from 12 to 14 September at Montecasino’s Outdoor Events Area, the event will feature live entertainment, authentic Indian cuisine, fashion showcases, and much more.

Advertising
  • Things to do

Golden skies, good vibes, and your favourite hits – what more could you want? The Corona Sunsets Festival is heading to Jozi on 13 September, bringing the ultimate day-to-night experience to the grounds of Casalinga.

This one-day celebration is one of the season’s hottest tickets, boasting an all-star line-up including Zakes Bantwini, Jeremy Loops, DBN Gogo, and more.

Whether you're looking to unwind, dance it out, or soak in a golden sunset with friends, this is where it all comes together. Park & Ride services are aslo available for your convenience.

Time Out Tip: The festival is 100% cashless, so make sure you’re ready to tap and go.

Earthdance Johannesburg 2025

Join the global Earthdance peace gathering with a weekend of music, nature, and connection. This year’s theme celebrates fire and the solar eclipse, which will arrive on Spring Day. Expect live DJs, stunning visuals, healing spaces, shaded camping, and community vibes.

The event takes place from Friday, 19 September, to Sunday, 21 September, at Fun Valley Pleasure Resort, Walkerville. Tickets start at R375. All include camping. No under 18s. No own alcohol or glass.

For VIP glamping and Tentnation bookings, contact Cody on 082 925 6800. 

Advertising
  • Things to do

The DStv Delicious International Food and Music Festival returns to the Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit on 20 and 21 September 2025 for its 12th edition, promising another unforgettable weekend of world-class entertainment, culinary delights, and bold creative expression.

Festivalgoers can look forward to a feast of flavours, electrifying live performances, striking fashion, and vibrant art installations.

This year’s star-studded lineup features Grammy Award-winning Lauryn Hill, YG Marley, Zion Marley, Lira, and many more.

  • Things to do

Canada-born singer and songwriter Jamie Fine returns to South Africa for her much-anticipated If This Is It Tour. Catch her live on 27 September at the Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden in Roodepoort, where she’ll deliver a soulful performance in a calming setting, the perfect backdrop for a relaxing family picnic and a day of great music.

This family-friendly event includes a Kids Zone with free entry for children aged 14 and under. Expect plenty of fun with games, inflatables, and jumping castles to keep the kids entertained all day.

Time Out Tip: Park and Ride services are available for R50 extra.

Advertising
  • 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

  • Things to do

Visitors are invited to enjoy a vibrant celebration of fresh produce, live music, food trucks, and family fun at the final From the Ground Market of the season, taking place on 30 and 31 August at Ground the Venue.

This carefully curated market brings together a selection of hand-picked vendors, bespoke cocktail bars, and interactive lifestyle stations. Whether guests are shopping for artisanal goods, sipping craft cocktails, or simply soaking up the lively atmosphere, the event offers a perfect day out for families, friends, and food enthusiasts alike.

Advertising
  • Things to do

Awaken the senses and ignite the imagination – step into a whimsical world beyond words at the Luxurious Marble Circus at Ground the Venue. This two-day spectacle of opulence, taking place on 4 and 5 October, promises an extraglamorous experience like no other, where food, fashion, and music come together to enchant every sense.

The stellar lineup features musical icons including Kabza De Small, Mi Casa, and the Soweto Gospel Choir, alongside electrifying performances from the Thrillified Trampolining Tumblers, the Rhythmicacious Ringmaster, J’Something, the captivating Luxurious Marble Dancifiers, and more.

  • 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.

Advertising
  • 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. 

  • Things to do

Two-time Grammy Award-winner Gregory Porter is set to captivate Jozi with an unforgettable evening of timeless jazz, rich vocals, and soul-stirring storytelling, as part of his ‘Love is King Tour’.

Renowned for his velvety voice and heartfelt performances, Porter brings his signature blend of jazz and soul to the stage for a one-night-only concert experience at the DP World Wanderers Stadium on 15 November, promising to be both moving and memorable.

Recommended
    You may also like
    You may also like
    Advertising