Amy Fraser

Known as "The Warmest Place to Be", Durban is more than just sunny skies, flavourful cuisine, and stunning beaches. This vibrant city pulses with energy all year round, thanks to a diverse calendar of events and festivals for every interest and budget. From live concerts and cultural celebrations to exhibitions and food festivals, we’ve rounded up some of the hottest happenings you won’t want to miss. Let’s vy! (That’s Durban slang for "let’s go!")  RECOMMENDED: 🍝 The best restaurants in Durban💃 The best clubs and nightlife in Durban🌊 The best beaches in Durban🏨 The best hotels in Durban🛍️ The best markets in Durban

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

As if the mountain, oceans, vibrant city and dynamic culinary scene weren’t enough to keep you busy, Cape Town also brings the goods when it comes to a jam-packed schedule of concerts and events. We're tapping into all the vibes with our updated and expanded Events Guide to Cape Town. Across the city, you’ll find live music, vibey markets, special shows and fun events that are a total jol (that’s a ‘party’, in local lingo). Here's our hand-picked selection of the hottest events to head for in the Mother City. RECOMMENDED:📍 The best things to do in Cape Town🍝 The best restaurants in Cape Town🏖 The best beaches in Cape Town🛍 The best shops in Cape Town🏠 The best Airbnbs in Cape Town 🏨 The best hotels in Cape Town

Durban isn’t just a top holiday destination, it’s a pet-lover’s paradise too. From breezy beachfront cafés to countryside pubs with dedicated doggy menus, KZN offers plenty of spots where your furry companion is just as welcome as you are. So hook the leash, pack the treats, and plan a day trip with your favourite travel partner. Great food tastes even better when shared with someone who never judges your order and is always happy to see you. Basic etiquette While you may love and adore your pets, not everyone around you will feel the same. Being mindful and considerate of others sharing the space is essential. Most restaurants enforce a "leash-only" rule, so be sure to follow it at all times. Always clean up after your pet and remember to bring waste bags with you. But, without further ado, here are some of Durban and surrounds' paw-approved pitstops to raise the woof… TIME OUT RECOMMENDS: 📍 The best things to do in Durban😋 The best restaurants in Durban🏨 The best hotels in Durban🛏️ Where to stay in Durban

Some might argue that a truly well-balanced meal should include protein, vegetables, carbs, and healthy fats. If that’s the case… surely pizza qualifies as the ultimate balanced meal? Even if the dieticians don’t quite agree with our logic (please don’t come for us), we’re standing our ground on this one. Luckily, Pretoria offers no shortage of spots serving up this versatile, simple, and undeniably delicious dish. Whether you’re loyal to the classics like a Margherita, prefer a thick or thin crust, feel like indulging in a seafood medley or butter chicken topping, or stick to vegetarian favourites, pizza rarely disappoints in our eyes. Well… almost never. Not enough cheese? Now that is a serious offense. To make things easier for fellow pizza lovers, we’ve eaten our way across Pretoria and rounded up some of the very best pizzas the city has to offer. TIME OUT RECOMMENDS: 🥐 The best cafés and coffee shops in Pretoria🛍️ The best shops in Pretoria🍴 The best restaurants in Pretoria🛏️ Where to stay in Pretoria

When it comes to taking a break from, well, life and its responsibilities, we often dream of booking a flight, hopping on a plane, and heading to a well-known destination. For locals, taking a break or going on vacation usually means leaving South Africa or, at the very least, your province. For tourists, it often means ticking off all the famous attractions. Don’t get me wrong, there’s nothing wrong with that. But more often than not, the best destinations are the lesser-known and lesser-visited ones that deserve more attention. Whether you’re planning a solo getaway or a family escape, we’ve rounded up some of the best small-town experiences near warm and sunny Durban. From shark cage diving to water slides, there’s something for everyone. TIME OUT RECOMMENDS: 📍 The best things to do in Durban😋 The best restaurants in Durban🏨 The best hotels in Durban🛏️ Where to stay in Durban Time Out makes a small commission from the affiliate links included in this article. These links have no influence on our editorial content, but they do help us to bring you more recommendations every week. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.

Every once in a while, it’s good to step away from the hustle and bustle of city life and the responsibilities that come with it. To get in the car, head somewhere quiet, and let your brain switch off – returning home with the kind of weekend you’d describe to friends as "good for the soul". It doesn’t always have to be a full weekend away. Sometimes, all you need is a day trip: a change of scenery, a chance to learn, wander, and explore.  I truly believe that to understand the place you live in – or are visiting – you need to step back into its history. Visit museums and art galleries, learn about the people who came before you and those who shape it now, and discover the story of a town or city through paintings, memorabilia, and artifacts. With that in mind, we’ve rounded up some of the best small artistic towns around Durban, some just 40 minutes away, others worth a two-hour drive. Time Out makes a small commission from the affiliate links included in this article. These links have no influence on our editorial content, but they do help us to bring you more recommendations every week. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines. TIME OUT RECOMMENDS: 📍 The best things to do in Durban😋 The best restaurants in Durban🏨 The best hotels in Durban🛏️ Where to stay in Durban

If you grew up in KZN, you’ve likely spent at least one childhood holiday riding horses, hiking, and swimming in streams found within the dramatic Drakensberg mountains. If not, then this is your sign to pack your bags and head for the hills, because the Drakensberg is unmatched in scenic beauty and outdoor fun! Speaking of packing, here’s a checklist to help you prepare for a one-day hike in the Drakensberg. Must-pack items: Water bottle Hiking boots or sturdy walking shoes A warm jacket and waterproof clothing (mountain weather changes fast) Sunglasses First-aid kit Torch or headlamp, with extra batteries Nutritious snacks and meals to keep your energy up Navigation tools: a mobile GPS or compass, plus a map Power bank – better safe than sorry SPF Trekking pole(s) If you're camping overnight, add: Sleeping bag Toiletries Extra clothes and underwear – don’t forget thermals Tent and sleeping mat Plenty of food to last the duration of your trip Gas stove and necessary cooking accessories When is the best time to visit? It depends on what you’re looking for, but autumn (March–May) is generally the ideal time. During these months, temperatures are comfortably mild, skies are clear, rainfall is minimal, and the views are truly breathtaking. To make planning even easier, we’ve found a few Airbnbs near the Drakensberg that might be worth checking out. Click here to view. But without further ado, here are our top 10 reasons to visit the Berg (as we call it in KZN!): Time Out ma

When it comes to live concerts and music festivals, I feel like there are two types of people: those who love it and feel truly alive in those moments, and those who would much rather be at home or in a nice jazz bar. Both groups are valid, but if we’re being honest, I fall into the latter. A cosy cocktail bar, tapas, and live music? I’m there. A music festival or large concert? Forget about it. I promise my feelings won’t be hurt if you don’t invite me. Luckily, Durban offers both: large venues where you have that moment of scanning the crowd, trying to grasp how many people share a love for the same artist or band, and smaller, more intimate spaces where you can get up close with the artist or DJ. So whichever group you fall into, we’ve rounded up the best live music venues in Durban.  Oh, and while we're at it, we've also rounded up the best pubs and bars and clubs in Durban! TIME OUT RECOMMENDS: 📍 The best things to do in Durban😋 The best restaurants in Durban🏨 The best hotels in Durban🛏️ Where to stay in Durban

When you think of Durban, what comes to mind? Golden beaches, warm weather, bold flavours? You wouldn’t be alone, and you wouldn’t be wrong. But this friendly coastal city has far more to offer than first meets the eye. From historic markets woven into the fabric of the city to Africa’s oldest surviving botanic garden, and local artists celebrating Durban’s rich biodiversity and ecosystems that make KwaZulu-Natal truly one-of-a-kind, there’s a deeper story just waiting to be discovered. And quite frankly, if Durban isn’t on your 'must-visit' list, seriously, what is wrong with you? And before you say it, no, we’re not being biased… well, maybe just a tiny bit. After all, we’ve got the official title to back us up: Durban was named one of Time Out’s Best Places to Travel in 2026. Whether you’re a curious local, a first-time visitor, or looking to impress at your next quiz night, here are 10 fun facts about Durban you might not know. TIME OUT RECOMMENDS: 📍 The best things to do in Durban😋 The best restaurants in Durban🏨 The best hotels in Durban🛏️ Where to stay in Durban

One of the great beauties of South Africa is just how much there is to see, and, even more importantly, how many different ways there are to see it. Want a bird’s-eye view and a heart-pounding bungee jump? We’ve got you covered with the world’s largest commercial bungee bridge. Prefer to slow things down and experience the country on foot, side by side with locals? We’ve got that too. Whether you’re keen to eat your way through Cape Town’s colourful and historic Bo-Kaap or tuck into local favourites like a true Joburg local, there’s something for everyone. Want to skip traffic altogether and explore our beautiful country from the water? You can bet we’ve got that covered as well – and we’ve compiled a list to help make your decision a little easier. Before we begin, though, there’s a bit of admin to cover: the do's and don’ts, what to pack, planning tips, and basic etiquette. On most of these river cruises, you’ll have the opportunity to see some of South Africa’s incredible wildlife, flora, and fauna up close. Remember, you’re a visitor in their home – act respectfully and always follow the safety guidelines laid out by your tour guide. And if you’re on a cruise where you’re being wined and dined, it goes without saying: don’t litter. You and your weather app should become best friends. Be sure to check the forecast and pack accordingly. While many operators run 365 days a year, strong weather conditions can disrupt plans. Don’t forget essentials like SPF or a rain jacket, d

The Lowveld, located in South Africa’s Mpumalanga province, is a renowned destination for wildlife enthusiasts, thanks to Kruger National Park and the many private game reserves nearby. But beyond the safaris, there is a wealth of hidden gems and experiences that often go unnoticed, surprising considering the region’s breathtaking beauty, all just a short distance from the park. This is a place where landscapes, abundant wildlife, and a rich cultural heritage offer dramatic sunsets and encounters that belong on every 'must-see in Africa' bucket list. To help you make the most of your visit and maybe even inspire a road trip, I have put together a list of things to do in the Lowveld. Whether you are an adrenaline junkie seeking adventure or someone who enjoys a slower pace while exploring the history and culture of this stunning region, there is something here for everyone. Time Out South Africa Recommends: 🦁 Where the wild ones are in Johannesburg🐧 Where the wild ones are in Cape Town🐒 Where the wild ones are in Durban

Whether you’re a first-time mom or a mom-to-be who’s done this before, or know someone who’s expecting, this three-day expo at Gallagher Convention Centre from 3 to 5 July is your one-stop shop for all things pregnancy, baby, and early childhood. From their first-ever Bluey Live Interactive Experience to live demos, expert advice, doula consultations, and more, it’s the perfect opportunity to tick a few things off your to-do list.

Presented by Cape Ballet Africa, Swan Lake arrives at the Teatro at Montecasino this August, running from 7 to 23 August. Set to Tchaikovsky’s powerful score, this timeless tale of love, magic, and sacrifice explores themes of passion, betrayal, and eternal devotion.

If your idea of a great weekend includes next-level food, wellness trends, free samples, and chef demos, this is a must-see event at the Sandton Convention Centre from Friday 18 to Sunday 20 September. Now in its sixth edition, the event offers access to 90+ expert talks, interactive experiences, chef demos, and wellness sessions, along with 250+ exhibitors showcasing a wide range of products from across Africa.

Celebrate National Women’s Day on 9 August at the Durban Botanic Garden, where Lira, Nomfundo Moh, and DJ Sbu will take the stage as part of the Old Mutual Music at the Lake series. Guests are encouraged to bring picnic baskets, blankets, and camping chairs. All proceeds from the performances will support the Garden Window Project, an innovative initiative focusing on people and plant development within the Durban Botanic Garden.

For those without Father’s Day plans or simply seeking a day immersed in nature, the Old Mutual Music at the Lake series returns to the Durban Botanic Gardens, with Mi Casa and Lordkez hitting the stage on 21 June. All proceeds from the performances will support the Garden Window Project, an innovative initiative focused on people and plant development within the Durban Botanic Gardens.

With an all-star local cast, directed by Bryan Hiles and featuring choreography by Evashnee Pillay, everyone’s favourite fairytale, Cinderella, comes to life on the stage of the Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre. Running from this December to 10 January 2027, this enchanting production stars Roshanda Lewis as Cinderella and William Young as the Prince, as they embark on a magical journey in search of true love.  

Bafunny Bafunny, South Africa’s national team of comedy, takes to the stage at the Grand Arena at GrandWest on 26 September, led by none other than Captain Trevor Noah. Joining him are Vice Captain Eugene Khoza and Coach Ntosh Madlingozi, alongside an all-star lineup of local and international comedians, guaranteed to deliver an unforgettable evening of stand-up comedy packed with laughter – the South African way.

If there’s one thing about South Africans, it’s our ability to turn even the most serious situations into something to laugh about. And if you’re in the mood for a good laugh, the country’s oldest and largest comedy festival is back, funnier than ever, as it celebrates its 27th year at the Baxter Theatre from 28 May to 21 June. This year’s lineup, hosted by Alan Committie, brings together a mix of local and international talent. Audiences can look forward to performances by homegrown favourite Jason Goliath, Italy’s shadow artist and illusionist Matteo Fraziano, and singing impersonator Mike Woodhams, a finalist on Britain’s Got Talent.

Rock legends Live are returning to Cape Town this December at Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden on 8 December, with an additional date added for 9 December. Led by frontman Ed Kowalczyk, the iconic rock band will deliver a banging set featuring favourites like Lightning Crashes, alongside classics such as I Alone, Selling the Drama, and Overcome. While the 8 December show is already sold out, a limited number of tickets remain for the 9 December show.

Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again is bringing Greece to the Artscape from 3 September to 11 October. The production features a star-studded cast, including Amra-Faye Wright as Donna Sheridan and Leah Mari as Sophie Sheridan. Audiences can look forward to some of ABBA’s greatest hits – from Dancing Queen and Mamma Mia to Super Trouper and Take a Chance on Me. At its heart, the musical is a joyful celebration of young love, sisterhood, motherhood… and dot, dot, dot (see what we did there).

The six-time Grammy Award–nominated singer, songwriter, and multi-platinum international R&B star Tamia is set to perform on 6 August at the Grand Arena at GrandWest, headlining The Biggest Women’s Month Celebration Tour Experience. Known for timeless hits like Stranger in My House, Still, and Officially Missing You, her performance promises all the feels, so you might want to bring a few tissues along.

Running at the Pieter Toerien Main Stage from 13 May to 7 June, Heal the World is a powerful exploration of resilience, healing, and self-discovery. Through reimagined interpretations of Michael Jackson’s greatest hits, this ballet, choreographed by award-winning Angela Revie, showcases dance as a universal language that transcends our differences.  

On Sunday, 21 June, South Africa celebrates Father’s Day, traditionally observed on the third Sunday of June. The Father's Day we know today originated in the United States in the early 1900s. It was inspired by Sonora Smart Dodd, whose father, a Civil War veteran, raised her and her siblings after their mother died in childbirth. The first Father’s Day was held on 19 June 1910, the birth month of Dodd’s father. Whether you’re celebrating a dad, husband, grandfather, or fatherly figure in your life, we’ve rounded up some events happening in and around Cape Town to help with the celebrations. Weekend weather Friday Min: 12°C Max: 21°C Weather condition: Clear skies Saturday Min: 12°C Max: 24°C Weather condition: Clear skies Sunday Min: 13°C Max: 21°C Weather condition: Partly cloudy  CBD Father’s Day lunch at East Grill City Sunday, 21 June | 12pm – 4pm Location: East Grill City, 84 Harrington St, District Six Cost: R695 via Dineplan Treat dad to a five-course meal, starting with roosterkoek, followed by a choice of tuna or lamb, sorbet palate cleanser, a choice of salmon or duck liver, and ending with something sweet.  CHECK OUT   The 32 best ways to discover Cape Town’s ‘East City’ Photograph: East City GrillEast City Grill Broadway Baby! Sunday, 21 June | 3:30pm, 6pm Location: Homecoming Centre, 15 Buitenkant St, District Six Cost: R180 – R250 via Webtickets For one night only, enjoy an evening of classical ballet, jazz, lyrical, and contemporary dance, featuri

Acclaimed R&B singer Kehlani is heading to South Africa this festive season as part of the KEHLANI WORLD TOUR. The two-time Grammy Award-winner will be performing in Pretoria on 15 December before bringing the tour to the Mother City on 17 December. Known for hits such as Honey, Distraction, Folded, and After Hours, this will be Kehlani’s second visit to South Africa following their headline performance at Rocking the Daisies in 2022. Taking to social media, Kehlani shared their excitement about returning, saying: "It’s been too long, South Africa!! I’ve missed you!" View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kehlani (@kehlani) Joining Kehlani on the South African leg of the tour will be American singer- songwriter Destin Conrad. What you need to know: Date and time: Thursday, 17 December | 8 pm Venue: Grand Arena, GrandWest Tickets via Ticketmaster: Mastercard Presale: 9am, 17 June Big Concerts Fan Club Presale: 9 am, 18 June General: 9am, 19 June  Get familiar Listen to Kehlani's Folded below: Listen to Destin Conrad's Same Mistakes below: Sign up to Time Out Cape Town's free newsletter for expert recommendations on new things to do, see, eat and drink in the Mother City. You can also follow Time Out Cape Town on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok! 

I believe they call this time of year cuffing season – when it’s cold outside, and you need someone to cuddle with. Luckily, if you’re taking part, there are plenty of events happening in and around the city this weekend to help you make the most of it. This weekend is a pretty good snapshot of Cape Town at its best, from theatre and jazz to wine festivals to Padel match-making, there’s no shortage of ways to spend your time. We're also all in for Bafana Fridays guys, bring that gees please. It's time to BELIEVE! It’s also the final week of the Encounters South African International Documentary Festival, so if you haven’t had a chance to catch a screening, I’d recommend booking your tickets before they sell out. We're also all in for Bafana Fridays guys, bring that gees please. It's time to BELIEVE!  ICYMI: Bafana Bafana’s 2026 World Cup Journey: What South Africans need to know Weekend weather It’s a chilly one this weekend, with high temperatures expected to reach 16°C, according to the South African Weather Service. Friday Min: 12°C Max: 16°C Weather condition: Slight rain Saturday Min: 10°C Max: 16°C Weather conditions: Clear skies Sunday: Min: 10°C Max: 16°C Weather condition: Cloudy CBD  Artscape Youth Jazz Series Friday, 12 – Saturday, 13 June | 7:30pm, 6pm Location: Artscape Theatre, D.F. Malan St, Foreshore Cost: R50 – R90 via Webtickets In the lead-up to Youth Day on June 16, this programme nurtures young jazz musicians through mentorship and masterclasses

Happy long weekend to those who celebrate, aka you were smart enough to take Monday off with Youth Day on Tuesday. For the rest of us, we need to get better at planning. This weekend in Jozi has a good mix of music, theatre, fitness, arts and crafts, and it’s also the final weekend of Encounters. AND don't forget to bring your gees for Bafana Fridays!  If you’re in the mood for a road trip instead, we’ve rounded up the best long weekend trips from Johannesburg. Weekend weather The sun may be shining this weekend, but don’t be fooled, it’s still going to be chilly with a high of 21°C expected for the whole weekend. Friday Min: 9°C Max: 21°C Weather conditions: Clear skies Saturday: Min: 10°C Max: 21°C Weather conditions: Partly cloudy Sunday: Min: 11°C Max: 21°C Weather conditions: Partly cloudy Johannesburg North Zoo Trot Sunday, 14 June | 7am Location: Johannesburg Zoo, Cnr Jan Smuts Ave and UpperPark Dr, Parkview Cost: R78 via Webtickets This scenic 5k route through the Joburg Zoo offers the perfect chance to reconnect with nature and enjoy the fresh air in a safe, relaxed environment. Be prepared to hear some sounds of the wild and the occasional roar of a lion. Facebook: The Johannesburg ZooThe Johannesburg Zoo The Rocky Horror Show Friday, 12 June – Sunday, 16 August | Various times Location: Pieter Toerien Theatre, 1 Montecasino Blvd, Magaliessig Cost: R200 – R495 via Webtickets The Rocky Horror Show is coming to Jozi, featuring a great cast, dazzling per

With just 48 hours to go until the World Cup kicks off, all eyes may be on North America, but Melrose Arch is bringing the action right here in Jozi. Known as one of Johannesburg’s premier destinations for major sporting moments, the precinct will transform into the ultimate fan park experience for the opening ceremony and first match of the tournament, where Bafana Bafana takes on Mexico on 11 June. With seating for approximately 500 people in the Main Piazza and a further 250 seats available at The Square, you’ll feel practically inside the stadium. For the kids, there will also be a surprise appearance from the Minions characters James and Henry. I don’t want to start any rumours, but let’s just say, they’re yellow…and so is Bafana Bafana’s kit. Coincidence? I’ll let you decide.  Best of all, entry is completely free. Must-know details: Date: 11 June 2026 Location: Melrose Arch, 60 Melrose Blvd, Melrose North Time: Opening ceremony will be screened live from 7:30pm, followed by kick-off at 9pm. Cost: Free Instagram: bafanabafanaofficialMama Joy at the Fan Send Off event at the DP World Wanderers Stadium When to catch Bafana Bafana 11 June: Bafana Bafana vs Mexico 18 June: Bafana Bafana vs Czechia 25 June: Bafana Bafana vs South Korea How to show your support If you can’t make it to Melrose Arch, you can still back the boys by taking part in Bafana Friday and wearing your green and gold with pride. Check out collections from Mr Price Sport, adidas, and Old School to

  Johannesburg North First Sundays: Mi Casa Sunday, 7 June | 1:30pm Location: Maracanà, 58 Wierda Rd E, Wierda Valley, Sandton Cost: From R200 via Howler If you’ve ever been to a Mi Casa show, you know the drill: less sitting, more standing, singing, dancing, and pure vibes.   Instagram: maracana_sandton_First Sundays: Mi Casa Deuce Experience: The Grand Parisian Clay Weekend Saturday, 6 June | 1:30pm Location: LUXX Venue, 70 Rivonia Rd, Sandhurst, Sandton Cost: From R5,500 via Howler A premium live viewing experience inspired by the charm of Paris during the clay-court season, where world-class sport, culture, and luxury come together. Expect gourmet cuisine, a complimentary premium bar, curated music, and a live screening of the Roland Garros Women's Final. Dress code is Parisian Chic / Smart Elegant. Instagram: luxx_venueInteriors of LUXX Venue Le Vin x Wine Not : Harvest Reverie Saturday, 6 June | 2:30pm Location: Le Vin, 9 Walters street, Rosebank Cost: From R950 via Quicket  This thoughtfully designed daytime-to-sunset experience presents a curated five-course menu, with each course paired with wine to enhance the flavours. Accompanied by live music, it invites guests to unwind, savour exquisite food, and engage in meaningful conversations.  Facebook: Le Vin RosebankLe Vin x Wine Not: Harvest Reverie ONE DAY x SANBS hosted by J’Something Saturday, 6 June | 9am – 3pm Location: Artistry Listening Bar, 22 Fredman Drive, Sandown, Sandton Cost: Free entry, h

Goodbye spring, hello June. This weekend is a big one for Cape Town’s arts scene. First Thursdays offers the perfect excuse to reconnect with the Mother City after dark, and we’ve rounded up the best places to visit. It’s also the opening week of the Encounters South African International Documentary Festival, running from 4 to 14 June at venues across the city. Beyond that, there’s plenty more on the agenda: theatre, a must-visit event for vinyl lovers, Pilates sessions, and, naturally, a few party opportunities. Weekend weather Although the South African Weather Service has issued a Level 8 warning for parts of the Western Cape due to a high risk of flooding, Cape Town is expected to escape the worst of the weather. However, the Mother City is in for a chilly weekend, with temperatures forecast to peak at just 17°C. CBD Please, don’t call me moffie  Thursday, 4 – Saturday, 6 June | Various times Location: Artscape Theatre, D.F. Malan St, Foreshore Cost: R150 via Webtickets Written and directed by Zubayr Charles, the production follows five Cape Coloured men in their late 20s as they navigate questions of identity, masculinity, and belonging in Cape Town. When a viral video depicting a brutal homophobic attack in an unnamed country shocks their community, they are forced to confront the tensions between their past and present, and the realities shaping their sense of self. ArtscapeWritten and directed by Zubayr Charles and performed by Anzio September. Encounters: Mama-D

As we close out May and winter creeps in, don’t be fooled – this city is still buzzing with excitement! The final weekend of the month brings a variety of events to heat things, from live jazz and silent discos to coffee festivals and cocktail masterclasses. The good news? The forecast looks promising, with the South African Weather Service predicting a dry weekend and temperatures reaching a pleasant 23 degrees Celsius. For the food enthusiasts, there are plenty of events lined up to satisfy your culinary cravings. And just in case you missed the news, a Johannesburg burger has just been crowned the 8th best burger in the world; definitely a must-try this weekend!  Johannesburg North Lovers & Friends Saturday, 30 May | 6pm Location: The Beach Rivonia, 19 Wessel Rd, Edenburg Cost: From R200 via Howler Lovers & Friends returns to Jozi with DWSON, Teddy Tumi, K Breezy, and DJ E, among others, for an evening of music and connection. Expect the very best in R&B, throwbacks, and timeless hits. Instagram: loversandfriends.saLovers & Friends JHB Edition The Jo’burg Coffee Festival Friday, 29 – Sunday, 31 May | 9am Location: Fourways Mall rooftop, 11 Ruby Cl, Witkoppen, Sandton Cost: From R160 via iTickets With temperatures beginning to drop across Johannesburg, the timing could not be better. Festivalgoers can look forward to speciality coffee roasters, premium coffee equipment, live brewing demonstrations, and a range of brew tools that will give deeper insight into coffee-m

If you didn’t know it already, Johannesburg’s food scene has serious global appeal, and this recent accolade only solidifies it further. We already know we have some of the best pizza in the world, but now our burgers are getting the recognition they deserve, too. Time Out recently released its prestigious list of the Best Burgers in the World, and Jozi’s Mafia Bite in Constantia Kloof landed at number eight with its Frank Lucas Burger – sandwiched between Sydney and Buenos Aires on the global ranking. With its nine-hour slow-smoked beef brisket that pulls apart effortlessly and is finished with a rich, glossy honey BBQ sauce, it’s not hard to understand why. Is your mouth watering yet? Because ours certainly is. Between the caramelised onion rings and sweet-and-sour gherkins, Johannesburg City Editor Liesl Bartlett praised the burger, saying: "The contrast between the tender, smoky brisket and the sharp crunch of the onion rings makes it one of the most indulgent bites in the city." This recognition couldn’t have come at a better time, as we celebrate International Burger Day today, 28 May. If you’re looking to join in on the celebrations, consider your lunch and dinner plans sorted – although we’d strongly suggest avoiding white clothing. A burger this juicy and saucy is bound to drip down your hands. Need to know: Address: 54 Constantia Drive, Constantia Kloof, Roodepoort Operating hours: Monday to Thursday and Sunday: 10am – 9pm Friday: 10am – 12:30pm and 1:30pm – 10pm

Goodbye May, hello winter! As we wrap up the final weekend of the month, it doesn’t mean the Mother City is slowing down one bit. This weekend is a big one for Cape Town’s food, beverage, and wellness scene, with the Good Life Show taking place at the CTICC from Friday to Sunday. The Time Out team will be there too, so be sure to pop by and say hello – we’ve got all the details you need right here. The CBD is also offering the perfect excuse to take some time out (wink, wink), step away from the screens, and enjoy some food, live music, and fresh air. And with sunny 20°C weather on the forecast, conditions are looking ideal. There’s also something in store for makeup lovers, music fans, and fashion enthusiasts, making it a fittingly high-energy end to May. We’ve rounded up some of the best winter activities in and around Cape Town, as well as budget-friendly getaway ideas if you’re planning a weekend road trip. CBD Inner City Street Feast Friday, 29 May | 11:30am – 2:30pm Location: Thibault Square, Cape Town City Centre Cost: Free Arguably, it doesn’t get more Cape Town than this! Step away from the hustle and bustle of corporate life and enjoy a laid-back lunch with great food, live music, fresh air, and a moment of intentional connection. Expect burgers, wings, and pizzas, with vegan and vegetarian options available too. Instagram: missionforinnercityctInner City Street Feast Social Link-Up: DayTime Groove Sunday, 31 May | 1pm Location: Rooftop On Bree, 170 Bree St,

Johannesburg North Childhood Beatz 3.0  Friday, 22 May | 7 pm Location: Maracanà, 58 Wierda Rd E, Wierda Valley, Sandton Cost: From R150 via Howler Calling all Disney lovers, it’s time to reminisce! From Hannah Montana and High School Musical to That’s So Raven and Camp Rock, this is a night guaranteed to have you on your feet all night long, reliving the days when your biggest worry was whether Troy and Gabriella could survive Sharpay. DeagreezCrowd at a party Johannesburg Zoo Friday, 22 May Location: Johannesburg Zoo, Cnr Jan Smuts Ave and UpperPark Dr, Parkview Cost: R22 via Webtickets On the 22nd of every month, entry to the Johannesburg Zoo is R22 in celebration of its 122nd birthday. This deal is valid until 28 February 2027. Facebook: The Johannesburg ZooGiraffe at the Johannesburg Zoo Drake Tribute Party Friday, 22 May | 9 pm Location: London Rosebank, 160 Jan Smuts Ave, Rosebank Cost: From R150 via Howler After a public feud with Kendrick Lamar, Drake is back with a surprise triple solo album drop. The three albums, Iceman, Habibti, and Maid of Honour, were unexpectedly released on 15 May. So it’s only fitting that a Drake tribute party follows close behind. Don’t Drake & Drive! Instagram: thelondonjhbDrake Tribute Party at the London Once Upon A Time In Johannesburg  Saturday, 23 May | 12 pm - 10 pm Location: Rosediled Equestrian Club, Centurion Cost: From R850 via Howler If you're prepared to drive just a little further north, step into a soulful d

For most Capetonians, the weekend - and the days leading up to it - will revolve around the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon, with many runners squeezing in final training sessions and race-day prep. If you’re not taking part in the race but still planning to get around the city, be mindful of the road closures and plan your travel routes ahead of time to avoid delays. There’s also plenty happening beyond the marathon. Expect a mix of theatre, fitness, health, and wellness events, along with some comedy across the city. If you’re more in the mood to unwind with a drink, you’re also covered: BeerEx Africa is taking place in the southern suburbs, while Unfiltered Thursdaze at Durbanville Hills offers a relaxed vineyard setting. Book lovers who may have missed the Franschhoek Literary Festival can head to the Constantia Literary Festival this weekend for another dose of literary conversations and local talent. According to the South African Weather Service, it’s expected to be a mostly dry weekend. Still, as we’ve recently learned from a surprise thunderstorm, Cape Town weather can be unpredictable, so it’s still a good idea to pack a jacket, just in case. CBD WOLF XIV: DRAG-aversay - A Night of A Thousand Wolves Saturday, 23 May | Doors open at 7pm, show starts at 8pm Location: The Outlore Base, 80 Hout St, Cape Town City Centre Cost: From R190 via Quicket "A ritual. A gathering. A call to the pack." This event promises to be an evening of immersive drag experience where performance