Events: What’s on in Johannesburg

By popular demand, VR Theatrical’s stunning new adaptation of Rudyard Kipling’s The Jungle Book returns to Pieter Toerien’s Main Stage at Montecasino from 12 February to 1 March 2026. 

Audiences can look forward to experiencing Baloo, Bagheera, and Shere Khan like never before.

From 8 to 10 March, Hostex, one of Africa’s top food, beverage, and hospitality expos, is coming to the Sandton Convention Centre.

This three-day event is the space for industry peers to network, gain industry insights, and discover new, cutting-edge products. 

Jazz in the Lights Music Festival returns to the Johannesburg Zoo on 21 March, promising an unforgettable celebration for jazz enthusiasts. The festival will showcase a vibrant mix of local and international.

Designed with the whole family in mind, younger visitors can explore the zoo’s animals and facilities, while music lovers unwind and immerse themselves in irresistible rhythms that are sure to get toes tapping.

If you wanna be happy for the rest of your life (see what we did there), don’t miss Dr. Victor & The Rasta Rebels live at Emperors Palace, joined by comedian Nicholas Goliath.

Get ready for an evening packed with big laughs and feel-good, reggae-infused hits on 17 April. Tickets range from R150 to R250.

Africa’s largest electronic music festival returns to Jozi on 25 April at the Johannesburg Expo Centre.

Fans can expect a spectacular, larger-than-life stage design, immersive visuals, and the unmistakable ULTRA energy that transforms the crowd into one pulsating, dancing collective.

Tickets are selling fast, so secure yours before they’re gone.

Dezemba is here, and the heat is on! Deep In The City, curated by THEMBA and Euphonik, returns with South Africa’s biggest deep house festival this summer. Taking place on 26 April at Montecasino, this highly anticipated event promises an unforgettable celebration of music, culture, and good vibes.

With a stellar lineup of top local artists, mouthwatering food, and a vibrant atmosphere, this is the ultimate summer experience. Tickets are selling fast, so don’t say you weren’t warned.

One of Hollywood’s most beloved love stories, Pretty Woman: The Musical, makes its highly anticipated debut on the Teatro stage at Montecasino from 24 April.

Supported by an all-South African cast, crew, and band, and guided by a collaboration between local and international creatives, missing it would be a big mistake. Big. Huge.

Over 100 exhibitors will be heading to the Sandton Convention Centre from 29 to 31 May for the Cannabis Expo. This three-day event features engaging talks and presentations covering health, education, agriculture, legislation, finance, and more.

There’s also an outdoor experience with live DJs, music and entertainment, great food and drinks, and plenty of exhibitors showcasing leading brands and products from every corner of the industry.

Decorex Joburg, South Africa’s premier décor and design showcase, returns to the Sandton Convention Centre from 30 July to 2 August.

Spanning five expansive floors, the event offers an immersive space to browse, shop, taste, and discover new favourites, all while gathering fresh inspiration for your next project. This year’s theme, "The Soft Life," invites visitors to explore designs that elevate everyday living.

Ndlovu Youth Choir comes to Teatro at Montecasino from 30 July to 2 August as part of their 2026 South African tour. The acclaimed ensemble will present a fresh and exciting setlist, celebrating South African favourites such as Pata Pata alongside international hits, all reimagined in the Choir’s unmistakable, energetic style.

Audiences can expect powerful harmonies, vibrant choreography, and the joyful spirit that has captivated audiences around the world.

Branded as Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry, New Zealand will tour South Africa for the first time in 30 years, featuring an eight-match showdown. On 22 August, they’ll clash with the Springboks at Ellis Park Stadium in a guaranteed sell-out encounter.

Whether you live and breathe rugby or just want to be part of sporting history, this is a tour you won’t want to miss.

South Africa’s ultimate pop culture and gaming festival returns to the Johannesburg Expo Centre from 24 to 27 September.

From rare comic books and collectible memorabilia to world-renowned actors, celebrated comic book artists, and standout cosplayers, plus live Q&A sessions and autograph signings, this is a convention you won’t want to miss.

Missed out last year? We caught up with Misha Collins to talk fandom, longevity, and his first visit to South Africa.