Amy Fraser

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

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

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

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

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

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

From 28 to 30 August, South Africa’s largest industry-supported auto show returns to Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit. Across three days of high-energy motoring action and family-friendly entertainment, the Festival of Motoring will host more than 100 exhibitors showcasing automotive products, custom vehicles, and the latest innovations in the industry, alongside food stalls and entertainment.

On 29 and 30 May, Mandisi Dyantyis, in collaboration with Real Wired Music, will present the Mandisi Dyantyis Symphonic Celebration at the Playhouse Company, with support from the KwaZulu-Natal Philharmonic Orchestra. Across the two nights, audiences will experience powerful symphonic renditions of music from Cwaka, Somandla, and Intlambululu, promising a rich musical journey.

If you’re craving bold flavours, vibrant energy, and a true celebration of local culture, the eThekwini Kota Festival is an experience you won’t want to miss. On 6 June, Moses Mabhida Stadium will transform into the ultimate hotspot for food lovers and culture seekers alike. Expect the very best of KwaZulu-Natal’s beloved kota, paired with live music, entertainment, and a festive atmosphere that brings the community together.

Are you ready to be boo’d up, Cape Town? Award-winning R&B Singer-Songwriter, Ella Mai, will be performing at the Grand Arena at GrandWest on 26 April.  This tour follows the release of her latest album, Do You Still Love Me?, meaning fans can look forward to brand-new music, and of course, her older hits, including Boo’d Up and Trip. 

J. Cole is set to light up Jozi on 12 December 2026, taking to the stage at FNB Stadium for his first performance in the region in over a decade. The show marks the grand finale of the American rapper’s highly anticipated The Fall-Off Tour, making Johannesburg the final stop of the tour.

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.

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.

The East Coast Radio House + Garden Show returns to the Durban Exhibition Centre from 27 June to 5 July, bringing nine days of inspired living under one roof. Explore beautifully curated décor rooms, innovative garden and outdoor living displays, cutting-edge kitchen and bathroom trends, and a wide range of lifestyle and wellness products – all brought to life with live music and entertainment from East Coast Radio. Whether you’re a gardener, renovator, décor enthusiast, or simply looking for fresh ideas, this family-friendly lifestyle expo promises inspiration, creativity, and entertainment for everyone.

From 25 to 28 June, the CTICC will once again play host to Cape Town’s premier design expo, Decorex. More than 230 of the continent’s most creative brands and designers will showcase their offerings under this year's theme, "The Soft Life." Whether you’re a collector, admirer, or simply searching for inspiration, this four-day event offers the opportunity to connect with visionary local talent – all under one roof.

It would be a crime to talk about R&B without mentioning the group that had us all On Bended Knee. The iconic, four-time Grammy Award-winning Boyz II Men are heading to the Mother City. On 27 May, the Grand Arena at GrandWest will transform into a lover’s paradise – or the perfect setting for anyone hoping to win back their love. Fans can look forward to timeless hits like End of the Road and One Sweet Day, alongside the smooth harmonies that made them the soundtrack for romance.

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. 

If you’ve ever wanted to get your hands on Le Creuset, now’s your chance without completely breaking the bank (depending on how much you shop). Their much-loved Factory to Table sale is coming to Durban. From 26 to 30 March, the Durban ICC will be transformed into a colourful showcase of cookware, bakeware and everything in between, all at discounted prices. The sale runs on a first-come, first-served basis, so getting there early is key. Keep an eye on their socials for updates and extra details.

April is officially showing us flames - and honestly, I ain't mad about it. With public holidays stacking up like nobody's business (Good Friday on the 3rd, Easter Monday on the 6th, Freedom Day on the 27th), the month is essentially one long invitation to be somewhere excellent. Easter Weekend kicks off with Handel's Messiah at City Hall, the Two Oceans Marathon winding through the Cape Peninsula, and The Lawns catering especially for the little ones on Easter Sunday. Then the month builds: three nights of Bryan Adams at GrandWest, a daytime festival headlined by Basement Jaxx, the world's most beautiful race, and enough wine, food, and ballroom dancing to see you through to Freedom Day. AfrikaBurn rises from the Karoo on the 27th. Ella Mai and Ultra CPT are on the same Sunday. The disrespect from event organisers! I'd like to speak with the manager. But ending the month off strong is Comic Con Cape Town, where everyone gets to come as you are, as you were, as a friend - as Nirvana famously sang.  TIME OUT TIP:  Plan your Freedom Day long weekend! Freedom Day falls on a Monday, 27 April this year, creating a long weekend that the city has already fully committed to filling. The final stretch of April is stacked: Ultra CPT and Ella Mai on Sunday the 26th, the Bubbly Festival and Wine & Food Festival wrapping up on Saturday 25th, Comic Con running through to 3 May, AfrikaBurn kicking off in the Karoo, and the LEGACY Pageant Ball providing the ideal Freedom Day Eve celebration.

It feels like just yesterday we were ringing in the new year and bravely surviving Day 704 of January… and somehow it’s already March. How did that happen? A quick recap of the past three months: We survived Dezemba, and we all know what that did to our bank accounts. Then came Januworry, the month dedicated to financially, and emotionally recovering from Dezemba. February? That was Januworry’s afterparty, short, sweet, and still slightly broke. And now here we are in March, the month where we can finally exhale and pretend we have our lives together again, and if the events happening this month are anything to go by, we’re in for a very colourful one!  DON'T MISS: Your weekend ahead sorted! Best Things to do: 13 to 15 March CBD Kingdom of Ubuntu – The Musical in Concert Friday, 6 March – Saturday, 7 March | 7:30pm Location: Artscape Theatre Centre Cost: From R150 via Webtickets The Kingdom of Ubuntu – The Musical In Concert is a moving celebration of African unity, heritage, and shared spirit, bringing together original compositions, rich orchestral arrangements, and contemporary African dance. WebticketsKingdom of Ubuntu – The Musical in Concert on at the Artscape Cape Town Cycle Tour: 42km & 109km Sunday, 8 March | 10am, 6:15am Location: Grand Parade, CBD Cost: Entry is R500 per person for the 42km race, while participation in the 109km race ranges between R600 and R1,700, depending on the ticket option selected. The Grand Parade Start Area will once again welcome th

Choosing where to raise a family comes with many considerations: schools, hospitals, family-friendly activities, safety, proximity to family and friends, and the overall quality of life a city offers. Naturally, some sacrifices are often made along the way. Luckily, if you’ve chosen or are considering making Durban your home, findings from a Compare the Market AU study may put some of those concerns at ease. The research looked at nine different factors to rank the best cities in the world to raise a family in 2026. These factors included: Safety score World happiness score Things to do with kids Monthly cost of living National family benefits spending National statutory parental leave (combined) Green spaces per capita National child vaccination rates National education spending The study ranked 50 cities worldwide. While Durban placed 49th globally, which we don’t think is too shabby, it ranked third in South Africa, with Johannesburg (41) and Cape Town (46) coming out ahead. The findings also revealed that Durban recorded a happiness score of 5.213/10, tying with Johannesburg and Cape Town, while still surpassing cities such as Mumbai and New Delhi. Between our great weather, beaches, cuisine, nightlife, five-star hotels, art scene, and every other hidden gem in between, we can’t say we’re surprised. These are the top 10 cities to raise a family in 2026: Brisbane London Auckland Helsinki Sydney Perth Melbourne Stockholm Berlin Seoul This recognition further cements Du

Update: Thursday, 5 March: uShaka Marine World’s Wet ’n Wild will reopen today after being closed since the end of February due to a burst pipe that caused flooding and damaged critical equipment. uShaka Marine World confirmed the reopening on social media, adding that "combo tickets and access to uShaka Kids World's Splish Splash Sprinkler Island are also available." Friday, 27 February: If you were planning to cool off at Durban’s most iconic water park this weekend, you may need to rethink your plans. Since opening in 2004, uShaka Marine World has been a firm favourite among locals and tourists alike. From the adrenaline rush of its towering waterslides to dolphin shows and hands-on experiences like feeding stingrays, the park has long been a go-to destination for family fun. However, the park recently announced that its Wet ’n Wild facilities will be closed until further notice following a burst pipe that caused flooding and damaged critical equipment. In a statement, the park confirmed that Combo Tickets and access to uShaka Kids World Splish Splash Sprinkler Island will also be unavailable during this period. "Keeping you safe and ensuring the quality of our water is our top priority," the statement read. "We expect Wet ’n Wild to reopen in about four days, depending on the repair progress." While the temporary closure may disappoint many visitors, there’s still plenty to enjoy in Durban. With temperatures expected to reach 29°C over the weekend, the city’s beautiful be

Today, 17 February, a rare celestial event, a partial solar eclipse, will be visible across large parts of South Africa, including right here in Durban. During this astronomical phenomenon, the Moon will pass between the Earth and the Sun, partially obscuring the Sun and creating the striking illusion that a "bite" has been taken out of it. According to reports, Durban could experience up to 16% obscuration, one of the highest levels in the country. By comparison, Johannesburg is expected to see around 8% solar coverage, while Cape Town is expected to see around 5% solar coverage. Eclipse stages and timeline According to Time and Date, the partial eclipse in Durban will: Begin at 14:10 Reach maximum eclipse at 15:05 Conclude at 15:57 For those unable to view the eclipse in person, the South African National Space Agency (SANSA) will livestream the event on its YouTube channel, using its new solar telescope. Safety and protection Most importantly, never look directly at the Sun during the eclipse, even if it appears partially covered. Looking at the Sun without proper, certified eclipse glasses can seriously damage your eyes – even if you only glance at it for a few seconds. And nope, regular sunglasses won’t protect you. Better safe than sorry: grab approved solar viewing glasses and keep your eyes safe. 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

There are a few things that undeniably bring South Africans together, regardless of race, class or gender: music, biltong, a chop en ’n dop, the ability to make a joke out of just about anything, good food, and of course, sport. And rugby fans are in for a serious treat, as one of the game’s most intense rivalries heads to South Africa later this year. Dubbed Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry, New Zealand will tour South Africa for the first time in 30 years in an eight-match tour between August and September. It’s an occasion Springbok captain Siya Kolisi describes as "something huge and something this generation will never forget." In addition to the Tests against the Springboks, the All Blacks will also face four local franchise teams: the Hollywoodbets Sharks, the DHL Stormers, the Vodacom Bulls and the Lions. To help you plan, here’s everything we know so far and what you need to know. Tickets Pre-sale tickets open on 29 January at 10 am. To register, click here. General ticket sales open on 2 February at 10 am. Time Out Tip: Demand is expected to be massive, so make sure your bank card is ready, and your details are on hand to secure your tickets as quickly as possible. Tour Schedule The Hollywoodbets Sharks will face the All Blacks at Hollywoodbets Kings Park on Tuesday, 11 August. Full tour schedule: DHL Stormers vs All Blacks: 7 August Hollywoodbets Sharks vs All Blacks: 11 August Vodacom Bulls vs All Blacks: 15 August Springboks vs All Blacks: 22 August Lions vs All Black

Earlier in September, Ye (formerly Kanye West) teased a Johannesburg concert with a single tweet, and, in true Ye fashion, deleted it shortly after. But then, it became a reality... Ye's appearance was officially announced and he was set to perform at Ellis Park Stadium on 13 December. The concert, presented by Monyake Group, Jay Carson & Co., and Ticketpro, promised a full-scale production celebrating Ye’s 29-year music legacy – an immersive blend of art, sound, and spectacle. But the hype came with hesitation, and public trust was shaky from the start. On social media, many questioned whether Ye even knew he was booked for Johannesburg; the lack of concrete information, organisers with only 1.6k followers, and prolonged silence didn’t exactly inspire confidence. This uncertainty pushed people to dig into the legitimacy of the company and individuals claiming to be bringing Ye to South Africa – scrutiny that ultimately led the Monyake Group to issue a statement on 26 October in an effort to clear its name: View this post on Instagram A post shared by Monyake Group (@monyakegroup) In the end, the rumours became the new reality and Kanye's show was cancelled. The organisers have now released an official statement announcing that the concert will no longer go ahead. According to them, the project has been handed over to Yeezy Productions, "who will take over all future planning, communication, and execution of the event".

Update: Walmart is a solid new contender Walmart has officially opened its first South African store at Clearwater Mall in Roodepoort, marking the retail giant’s debut on the continent. We braved the traffic jam and eager crowds to stop by and found wide aisles, a broad mix of groceries, household goods, electronics, apparel and everyday essentials.   While many South Africans (us included) expected shelves lined with American goods, the store’s offerings are largely similar to what you’d find at major local retailers (many shoppers have compared it to Game of Makro who are also part of the Massmart Group), with only a small section dedicated to imported items, mainly cereals, sweets, and a few novelty treats. What does stand out is the fresh food section, which includes halaal-certified meat options, as well as a hot kitchen for ready-made meals, making it a practical stop for everyday shopping. The new store is also rolling out a 60-minute delivery service around the area via the brand’s dedicated Africa app, adding a new layer of convenience for local shoppers (YAY!)  In a landscape dominated by familiar names, Walmart’s arrival adds welcome competition to Joburg’s retail scene. For shoppers, another strong contender on the floor can only be a good thing.   After months of speculation following Massmart’s announcement that international retail giant Walmart would be opening its first store in South Africa, it’s finally official – the very first Walmart store will open at 

(Time Out Tip: Listen to 'The Final Countdown' by Europe while you read this. Don't be boring, just do it. You’ll get it.) Attention all fitness fanatics, your time to shine has arrived. HYROX, the global sport of fitness racing, is making its return to Jozi for the second time this year, because, let's be honest, who could stay away? On 29 and 30 November, the Johannesburg Expo Centre will welcome thousands of athletes, ready to put their grit, strength and sheer determination to the test, in one of the fastest-growing fitness competitions in the world. And registration is officially open! Instagram: HYROX South Africa What is HYROX? HYROX is a high-intensity fitness race that combines functional movement with endurance. Competitors face eight workout stations, each followed by a 1 km run. These stations include: SkiErg Sled push Sled pull Burpee broad jump Row erg Farmers carry Lunges Wall balls Feeling out of breath just reading that? I’m with you. And if you need some R&R after all of that (and let's be real, who wouldn’t?), here’s a list of the Best Spas in Joburg. You're welcome! Race schedule: Saturday, 29 November Open Men / Adaptive Men: 7:30 am–12:20 pm Doubles Women Pro: 12:40pm–1 pm Pro Women: 1:10 pm–1:30 pm Doubles Women: 2 pm–6:20 pm Doubles Men Pro: 7pm–7:50 pm Pro Men: 8 pm–8:40 pm Sunday, 30 November Doubles Men: 7:30 am–11 am Open Women / Adaptive Women: 11:30 am–2 pm Doubles Mixed: 2:40 pm–6:20 pm Women’s Relay: 6:50 pm–7 pm Mixed Relay: 7:20 pm–7:

It’s been 24 years since Bafana Bafana last qualified for the FIFA World Cup through the group stages. Needless to say we're pensive, but still hopeful with this World Cup 2026 Planning Guide. Optimism aside, we wanted to get the pragmatic take on Bafana Bafana's actual chances in the tournament. Sports journalist Cato Louw shares her take on what this moment means for South African football - and what comes next.  Bafana Bafana’s qualification is a historic moment. What kind of impact do you think it will have on soccer and sport as a whole in South Africa and Africa? “It truly is an amazing, memorable, historic and almost unbelievable moment given the route we have taken to get here. It’s historic because it's the first time in 24 years that we have qualified via the qualification route, meaning we took the route all the teams take. “Every four years, the host nation gets an automatic qualification, which we got in 2010. So, it’ll be the first time in 16 years that we will feature in a World Cup, but the first time in 24 years that we’ve actually qualified for one. “It’s a significant moment and one that is going to impact soccer in South Africa as well as Africa. SAFA are one of the biggest federations on the continent, so if we do well, it only bodes well for the rest of Africa. The better we do, the more eyeballs, more sponsors, and more people get on board with the team and the programmes. “As we’ve learned from the Springboks, when a team wins, people start believing

Spooky season has crept in, and Jozi is ready to lift your spirits (not literally… we hope). Whether you’re brewing up a night in with scary movies, dressing to kill in your best creepy-cute costume, or hitting the streets for some fang-tastic fun, the city is serving treats without the tricks. Here’s where to get your boogie(man) on this Halloween! The Halloween Experience at Johannesburg Zoo Date: Friday, 31 October 2025 Time: 5 pm Location: Johannesburg Zoo, Cnr Jan Smuts Ave and UpperPark Dr, Parkview Tickets: R132 (Adults) | R74 (Pensioners and Children aged 3-12). Click here to purchase. This Halloween, the Johannesburg Zoo is transforming into a spine-chilling wonderland of fright, fun, and family-friendly thrills. Prepare for an unforgettable night filled with eerie enchantment, featuring a haunted house, trick-or-treat trails, dazzling costume contests, and live entertainment. Facebook: The Johannesburg Zoo  The Bioscope's Knit-in-Cinema: Practical Magic Date: Sunday, 26 October  Time: 2 pm Location: The Bioscope, 44 Stanley Ave, Milpark Tickets: R84.50 (including service fee). Click here to purchase. Who says Halloween has to be all chills and gore? Sometimes, the best way to celebrate is by getting cosy with a comforting, nostalgic film. The Bioscope’s Knit-In Cinema offers just that: an inviting, well-lit screening where you can knit, crochet, or sew while watching the beloved Halloween classic, Practical Magic. This film follows two witch sisters, raised b

You’re probably thinking it’s post-Heritage Day; time to chill. Who has time to relax when Focalistic and Young Stunna are in the Mother City for one night only? Ease into Saturday at the Khayelitsha Book Festival, where you’ll meet local authors and poets. Then bring the house down at Cabo Beach as we wave goodbye to the weekend.  Time Out Asks: What’s it really like living in Cape Town right now? CBD Jägermeister presents Haus of Kühl Spring Edition! Friday, 26 September, 7pm Venue: The District, 8 Constitution Road, District Six, Cape Town Cost: Free, bookings essential via Web Tickets Now’s your chance to groove to the beats of Focalistic and Young Stunna for free. Yes, for mahala! Jägermeister Orange is bringing the music; you just bring the vibes to the silent disco. No under-18s allowed. Photograph: Web Tickets Youth Classical Concert Saturday, 27 September, 7pm Venue: Artscape Theatre, Cape Town Cost: R50 - R100, bookings via Web Tickets Hosted by Artscape and the Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra, the 54th Youth Classical Concert will showcase young classically trained performers. Bring the whole family, young and old, to experience emerging talent taking to the Artscape stage for the first time. Photograph: Tomasz Śmigla Unofficial Pink Party Saturday, 27 September, 9pm to 3am Venue: Botanik Social House, 54 Queen Victoria St, Cape Town Cost: From R50, bookings via Quicket One of the most anticipated events on the LGBTQI+ community calendar, the Unofficia