Events: What’s on in Johannesburg

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 Teatro, Montecasino on 20 and 21 November, promising to be both moving and memorable.

Nothing quite captures the spirit of summer like dancing under the open sky with incredible music and even better company. This season, the legendary Keinemusik is set to bring their world-renowned sound to Johannesburg on 21 November at Old Park Station.

Hailing from Berlin, Keinemusik is an internationally acclaimed electronic music collective and record label founded in 2009, featuring powerhouse artists Rampa, &ME, Adam Port, and Reznik.

Known for their unforgettable sets, it’s safe to say that you’re in for an electrifying night in Jozi.

Time Out Tip: There will be no public parking at the venue. Guests are encouraged to use e-hailing services.

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas at Joburg Zoo from 27 November to 4 January during the Joburg Festival of Lights, presented by Joburg Theatre in association with Joburg City Parks and Zoo and City Power.

Visitors can look forward to a dazzling display of illuminated life-size animal characters, entertainment, and a food and craft night market perfect for the whole family.

Time Out Tip: Children under 3 years of age enter for free.

The Linden Market is welcoming the festive season with open arms, with its next market taking place on 29 and 30 November.

Set in the scenic Botanical Gardens, the event will feature over 150 local stalls offering everything from ceramics to street food, along with activities to keep the kids entertained, live music, wine tasting, and even opportunities to give a furry friend a forever home.

Time Out Tip: Secure parking is available opposite the market at Roosevelt High School on Thomas Bowler Street for R30 per car.

HYROX, the global sport of fitness racing, is returning to Jozi for the second time this year on 29 and 30 November at the Johannesburg Expo Centre.

Thousands of athletes will put their grit, strength, and determination to the test in one of the fastest-growing fitness competitions in the world. Competitors will tackle eight workout stations, each followed by a 1 km run, pushing themselves to the limit in an unforgettable race experience.

Important: Don’t forget to activate your tickets to receive your official race pass and all essential event details, including start times, rulebooks, and spectator information.

Nothing says 'summer' quite like an outdoor picnic, a carefully curated basket, and a bottle of bubbly to take the edge off the Jozi heat, and The Maslow Hotel’s Sunday Society Picnic delivers exactly that.

Set against the backdrop of The Maslow’s beautifully manicured lawns, guests can bid farewell to the Sunday scaries as live entertainment sets the tone on 30 November, 7 December, and 14 December. Each picnic comes with its own dress theme, adding a splash of colour and creativity to the occasion.

What a bright time, it’s the right time. To rock the night away at Prison Break Market’s Christmas Night Run on 5 December!

This year’s run promises even more magic, twinkling lights, and festive fun for everyone. Guests can enjoy food stalls, live music, and holiday festivities perfect for the whole family. Runners can choose between a 5km, 10km, or 16km race, with prizes for the best-dressed participants adding extra cheer to the evening.

‘Tis the season! Cape Ballet Africa brings Tchaikovsky’s beloved holiday classic, The Nutcracker, to life at the Teatro at Montecasino from 4 December. Audiences will be swept into a magical world of twinkling snowflakes, the enchanting Kingdom of the Sugar Plum Fairy, and the heroic tale of the Nutcracker Prince on his quest to save his Princess.

This timeless production is choreographed by London-based artist Maina Gielgud, with set design by Michael Mitchell, promising a festive spectacle for the whole family.

After much speculation, it’s official: for one night only, YE – formerly known as Kanye West – will take the stage at Ellis Park Stadium on 13 December. Fans can expect an unforgettable experience featuring his iconic music, boundary-pushing fashion, and a performance as bold as the man himself.

Time Out Tip: Park and Ride services will be available, with tickets starting at R265. To purchase a ticket, click here.

If the sight of slithering snakes and scaly creatures sparks excitement, then the Xmas Reptile Expo at Emperors Palace’s Convention Centre is not to be missed. On 13 December, visitors can explore a fascinating array of reptiles, including tarantulas, scorpions, corn snakes, milk snakes, king snakes, boas, pythons, and more. Tickets are priced at R40 for children under 12 and R80 for adults.

Time Out Tip: Tickets will be available for purchase at the door.

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 14 December 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.

For an evening of spicy confessions, brutally honest advice, and laugh-out-loud commentary, look no further – ShxtsNGigs is coming to The Goldrush Dome on 24 January 2026.

Hosted by best mates James and Fuhad, the wildly popular UK podcast delivers outrageous stories, big belly laughs, and the kind of awkward audience moments that make live shows unforgettable.