Nhlalala Mthembi

Diepkloof is one of Soweto’s oldest and most established suburbs. It’s where history is blended with a strong sense of community. It's also home to some of the township's best places to eat, alongside a lively nightlife that keeps the neighbourhood buzzing throughout the weekend. There’s certainly plenty to discover here. What is Diepkloof known for? Established in the late 1950s during the expansion of Soweto under apartheid, Diepkloof has grown far beyond its origins, emerging as a lively neighbourhood known for its local flavour, beloved eateries and vibrant nightlife. Today, generations of families still call Diepkloof home, while its popular restaurants and social scene continue to attract visitors from right across Johannesburg. Unlike some of Soweto’s better-known tourists hotspots, Diepkloof has an unmistakably local feel. Residential streets sit alongside busy shopping centres, neighbourhood cafes and family-run businesses that have served the community for years. Whether it’s grabbing breakfast on the go, enjoying a relaxed afternoon catching up with friends or spending the evening at the neighbourhood lounges and bars, there’s always something happening. Thanks to its central location, Diepkloof also offers easy access to the township’s best-known attractions and neighbouring suburbs. History remains woven into the fabric of Diepkloof, but the neighbourhood continues to evolve through its restaurants, cafes, nightlife and creative energy. Food is one of Diepkloof’s

Bafana Bafana’s World Cup hopes have come crashing down in the extra time minutes of their match against co-hosts Canada.  After earning a crucial draw against Czechia, Bafana Bafana headed into the final group-stage match knowing that a win would secure a place in the knockout stages. The stakes couldn’t have been higher. But it was not meant to be. Hardlines Bafana, you did us proud!  Still, the tournament showcasing the beautiful game continues. Here's where you can continue to catch all the World Cup action.

Looking for things to do in Johannesburg this coming weekend? We’ve got you!  This Mandela Day weekend, Johannesburg has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to give back to your community, catch a live show or explore a new neighbourhood, there’s plenty of ways to spend your time. From charity fun runs and family-friendly theatre productions to live music and World Cup Final fan experiences, there’s no shortage of things to do across Johannesburg and in the weeks ahead. Before the winter school holidays wrap up, there’s still time to squeeze in one last family outing. For even more family-friendly ideas before school holidays end, be sure to check out our winter school holiday guide. Now read on to make the most of your weekend in your city! Also read: How to spend your 67 minutes this Mandela Day in Johannesburg Weekend Weather Expect another sunny weekend but don’t be fooled as winter is still firmly in charge. Mornings will be crisp, with temperatures hovering around 7°C before climbing to a pleasant daytime high of 22°C. The mornings and evenings may call for a warm coat, but the sunny afternoons make the perfect time to get out and explore Johannesburg. Friday Min: 7°C  Max: 20°C Weather conditions: Sunny Saturday Min: 8°C Max: 22°C Weather conditions: Sunny Sunday Min: 9°C Max: 21°C Weather conditions: Sunny Johannesburg North South London ft ReaDaSoul Friday, 17 July, 8pm Location: London, Rosebank Cost: R150 via Howler For a night of Afro-House, he

Travellers departing from Johannesburg have access to one of the region’s best airport lounges. Bidvest Premier Lounge at OR Tambo International Airport’s Domestic Terminal B has been crowned Regional Lounge of the Year for the Middle East and Africa in the 2026 Priority Pass Excellence Awards.  The annual awards celebrate outstanding airport lounges, with winners chosen from hundreds of thousands of verified ratings and reviews submitted by Priority Pass members. More than 700 000 member reviews were used to compile this year’s rankings, recognising lounges that consistently deliver exceptional service and a high-quality travel experience.  After passing through security in Domestic Terminal B, travellers can unwind at the Bidvest Premier Lounge away from the busy departure hall. With complimentary food and drinks, Wi-Fi, charging stations, comfortable seating, business facilities and flight information screens, the lounge has become a favourite among both business and leisure travellers.  Airport lounges may seem like an exclusive perk for business-class passengers, but they aren’t exclusively reserved for premium cabin passengers. Access is available to Priority Pass members, while some bank cards and travel loyalty programmes also include complimentary visits. Travellers without a lounge membership can also pay for access directly, subject to availability. Walk-in prices for domestic travellers starting from R300.  The award is another reason for travellers to arrive at O

Nelson Mandela Day, celebrated annually on 18 July, calls on South Africans to spend 67 minutes making a difference in the lives of others. The 67 minutes symbolise the 67 years Nelson Mandela spent devoted to the fight for social justice, starting with his political activism in 1942. Launched by the Nelson Mandela Foundation in 2009, Mandela Day has evolved into a global movement that encourages people to give back, reinforcing the belief that meaningful change often begins with a simple act of kindness. You don’t have to organise a major fundraiser to make a difference. Volunteering your time, donating essential items or supporting your local community are all meaningful ways to spend your 67 minutes. Not sure where to start? Here are six ways to make a difference this Mandela Day.  Also read: 9 places to discover Mandela's legacy in Johannesburg  Help pack food parcels with FoodForward SA  Food insecurity continues to affect communities across South Africa, and spending your 67 minutes helping to pack food parcels is a simple but a meaningful way to make a difference. Join hundreds of volunteers at FoodForward SA’s annual Mandela Day Packing Event, where your 67 minutes will help pack nutritious food parcels for vulnerable communities across South Africa.  No special skills are needed, just a willingness to give an hour of your time to a cause that brings people together for a common purpose. When: Friday, 17 July 2026 Where: Gallagher Convention Centre, 19 Richards Driv

Johannesburg’s design community has something big to look forward to this spring, with the city’s third edition of Design Week South Africa taking place from 8 to 11 October 2026. Designers, galleries, studios, hospitality venues and creative businesses keen to be part of the four-day celebration of South African design can now apply, with applications closing on 2 August. Building on the success of previous editions, the citywide event will see galleries, studios, hotels and other participating venues host installations, talks, exhibitions, product launches, workshops and creative collaborations across Johannesburg. Under the theme The Shape of Us, this year’s programme will celebrate how culture, identity and innovation continue to shape South African design today. According to the organisers, the theme invites participants to explore “how cultural identity, historical roots and future-thinking continue to shape South African design” through their own creative expression.  Rather than taking place at a single venue, Design Week South Africa unfolds across Johannesburg, with restaurants, galleries, retail spaces, hotels and design studios all hosting events. Across four days, the programme will celebrate the breadth of South Africa’s creative industries by showcasing the best of architecture, furniture, interiors, fashion, graphic design and product design. Also read: The 7 best art districts in Johannesburg The festival is another sign of Johannesburg’s growing status as on

The building at 81 De Korte Street in Braamfontein, best known as the former home of the acclaimed Orbit Jazz Club, is once again welcoming jazz audiences with the launch of Jazz at Jozi Gold, a weekly Saturday night series hosted by Jozi Gold Brewing Company. The programme honours the venue’s jazz legacy by bringing some of South Africa’s leading jazz musicians back to the stage that helped shape Johannesburg’s live music scene for many years.  Acclaimed trumpeter Sydney Mavundla headlines this Saturday’s edition of the series 11 July. Born in Johannesburg and raised in Barberton, Mpumalanga, Sydney Mavundla is recognised as one of the country’s leading contemporary jazz musicians. After studying under Professor Darius Brubeck at the University of KwaZulu-Natal before receiving a scholarship to Florida International University in Miami, where he was mentored by renowned Cuban trumpeter Arturo Sandoval.  Mavundla’s 2017 debut album, LUHAMBO was nominated for a South African Music Award, while his second album Dirge For Our Fathers further established him as one of the country's most respected jazz performers.  “Johannesburg has one of the richest jazz traditions in the world, and we want this series to celebrate that legacy while giving people a place to enjoy live jazz every week,” says Jozi Gold spokesperson Glynis Jardine. SuppliedCelebrated jazz trumpeter Sydney Mavundla The weekly programme aims to reconnect the venue with its jazz roots following the closure of The Or

Looking for things to do in Johannesburg this coming weekend? We’ve got you! This weekend, Johannesburg has something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for captivating live theatre, stand-up comedy, an impressive car stance show, joining fellow fans for a Love Island watch party or a relaxed afternoon of wine tasting, the city is packed with events worth adding to your weekend plans. Parents, don’t forget to check out our winter school holiday guide for even more family-friendly activities. Now read on to make the most of your weekend in your city! Weekend Weather The sunshine continues this weekend, but winter isn’t going anywhere just yet. It’s set to be a cool start to the day, with temperatures starting at around 6 °C before rising to a comfortable 17 °C during the day. A warm coat is a must, whether you’re catching a show or exploring the city. Friday  Min: 6°C Max: 17°C Weather conditions: Sunny Saturday   Min: 6°C Max: 16°C Weather conditions: Sunny Sunday  Min: 6°C Max: 16°C Weather conditions: Sunny Johannesburg North Fourways Comedy Club Birthday Special Friday, 10 July to Saturday, 11 July, 8pm Location: 60 Turaco Street, Sandton Cost: R100 via computicket Whether you’re a regular at the club or visiting for the first time, the Fourways Comedy Club Birthday Special offers the perfect opportunity to enjoy an evening of top-tier stand-up as the venue celebrates another year of entertaining Joburg audiences. Expect a lineup of talented loca

There’s a fashionable new reason to grab a coffee at Sandton City. Clothing brand Fabiani has unveiled a stylish pop-up cafe at the popular mall, offering shoppers specialty coffees and sweet treats to enjoy while taking a break from all that rigorous retail therapy... but only for a limited time. Located in the iStore Court, the Fabiani Cafe blends the brand’s signature green, gold and cream aesthetic with a welcoming space made for conversation, community and great coffee. With a shopping break or chill session with friends in mind, the pop-up cafe offers a fashionable setting to unwind. The cafe isn’t just about beautifully designed interiors and expertly brewed coffees, though. According to Fabiani, the money made from the cafe will go towards supporting FoodForward SA, an organisation dedicated to helping address the food security issues many local communities face. Every coffee sold contributes towards supporting the organisation’s work, while the cafe is run by graduates of the Sozo Foundation’s Barista Training Programme, an entity dedicated to empowering young people through education, community programmes and skills development. The Halaal-friendly pop-up officially opened on 30 June and will only be at Sandton City until 13 July, giving visitors a limited window to experience it... so don't miss out! All the details Where: Sandton City, iStore CourtWhen: Until 13 July 2026What to expect: Specialty coffee, pastries and a stylish pop-up experience supporting the Sozo

If this World Cup has taught us anything, it’s that no team is guaranteed victory. The Round of 16 has arrived with plenty of familiar giants still standing, but it’s the tournament’s underdogs that have stolen the show. From Norway’s shock victory over five-time champions Brazil to Morocco proudly carrying Africa’s hopes, the knockout stage has reminded us that the World Cup is where underdogs become household names. Some have already earned their place in the quarter-finals, while others are one result away. Together, they are reminding us why this tournament remains football’s greatest stage for unlikely heroes. Norway Wikimedia CommonsNorway flag Every World Cup produces a team that nobody sees coming. This year, it’s Norway. Norway have gone from dark horses to genuine contenders after pulling off one of the tournament’s biggest upsets, sending five-time champions Brazil crashing out of the competition. With Erling Haaland leading the line and Martin Odegaard pulling the strings in midfield, Norway have shown that they have the quality, composure and belief to trouble any team. For years, Norway watched the World Cup from afar. Now they’re back with a point to prove - and they are proving it. Read: Where to watch the 2026 World Cup in Johannesburg Morocco Calling Morocco underdogs is becoming increasingly difficult with every passing match. Their historic run to the 2022 World Cup semi-finals was meant to be a one-off. Four years later, Morocco have returned with the s

After captivating audiences at the National Arts Festival, The Cry of Winnie Mandela heads to the Market Theatre’s John Kani Theatre from 8 to 12 July 2026 for a strictly limited run of just six performances. Bringing Njabulo Ndebele’s celebrated novel to the stage, the production is directed by Standard Bank Young Artist for Theatre winner MoMo Matsunyane and adapted by Alex Burger. The return forms part of the Market Theatre’s 50th anniversary programme, which celebrates South African theatre by revisiting landmark productions and showcasing some of the country’s leading theatre-makers. The story centres on four women whose lives are bound together by the long wait for the men they love to return home. As each woman shares her story, the themes of love, absence, sacrifice, and resilience emerge, gradually intertwining with the legacy of Winnie Mandela. At its heart, the play explores the emotional cost of waiting and the quiet resilience it demands, using personal stories to connect with South African histories and experiences. Rather than telling a traditional biographical story, The Cry of Winnie Mandela uses her as a powerful symbol to illuminate the unseen sacrifices of women left waiting. Through evocative storytelling, music, and compelling performances, the production invites audiences to reflect on memory, identity, and the lasting effects of those whose lives were shaped by political struggle and personal loss. Director MoMo Matsunyane described Winnie Mandela as “

Looking for things to do in Johannesburg this coming weekend? We’ve got you! July is kicking off in style, with a weekend filled with live music, laugh-out-loud comedy, family-friendly theatre, can’t-miss entertainment, and a must-see car show. Whether you’re planning a date night, a day out with the kids or a catch-up session with friends, Johannesburg is packed with things to see and do this weekend. Parents, don't forget to check out our winter school holiday guide for even more family-friendly activities. Now read on to make the most of your weekend in the city! Johannesburg Weekend Weather Blue skies are forecast all weekend, but don’t let the sunshine fool you. Expect bitterly cold mornings, with a maximum of around 17°C. Layer up before you head out, a warm coat is a must for the city’s chilly winter temperatures.  Friday Min: -1°C Max: 15 °C Weather conditions: Sunny Saturday Min: 3 °C Max: 16 °C Weather conditions: Sunny  Sunday Min: 4 °C Max: 17 °C Weather conditions: Sunny Johannesburg North Strictly Soul presents Masego  Sunday, 5 July, 12pm Location: 4 Ways Farmers Market, Stone House Gardens Cost: R850 via Quicket QuicketMasego Grammy-nominated singer, songwriter and saxophonist Masego returns to Johannesburg with his Fix Your Face Tour for one afternoon only. Expect a genre-blending performance from Masego, whose signature “TrapHouseJazz” style combines R&B jazz, soul and Afro-inspired sounds. Expect to hear favourites such as Mystery Lady, Tadow and

After months of fuel price hikes, South African motorists are set to receive some much-needed relief. From today (1 July), South Africans will pay less for petrol and diesel, as fuel prices have been cut significantly, making trips to the petrol station a little less expensive,  The decrease comes after a stronger rand and lower international oil prices helped reduce the cost of importing fuel. Although the government’s temporary fuel levy relief has ended, favourable market conditions have led to a significant drop in fuel prices this July.  Here’s how fuel prices have changed from 1 July:  Petrol 93: down R2.01 per litre Petrol 95: down R1.96 per litre Diesel (0.05% sulphur): down R3.14 per litre Diesel (0.005% sulphur): down R3.59 per litre  Motorists in Gauteng will now pay R25.94 per litre for 93 unleaded and R26.11 per litre for 95 unleaded. A typical full 50 litre-tank of 95 unleaded will now cost nearly R100 less than it did in June, making it the first major fuel price decrease after several months of increases.    The price decrease follows weeks of uncertainty in global oil markets, as easing tensions in the Middle East helped stabilise oil prices during the fuel price review period. A slightly stronger rand also contributed to bringing down the basic fuel price in South Africa.   While fuel prices may continue to rise and fall with changes in global markets and the rand, motorists can at least enjoy some much-needed savings every time they fill up this month.   

Much of Johannesburg has continued to operate as normal, with many businesses remaining open on Tuesday, despite warnings of significant traffic disruptions as police maintained a strong presence around demonstrations calling for stricter action against undocumented migrants in South Africa.  JMPD confirmed three approved marches took place across Johannesburg, resulting in temporary road closures and traffic delays in the CBD, Hillbrow and Glen Austin in Midrand.    Around 100 protesters gathered outside Constitution Hill on Monday afternoon, where organisers handed over a memorandum calling for stricter action on undocumented immigration before the demonstration concluded peacefully with a prayer, according to Daily Maverick live updates.     SAPSJohannesburg has remained largely business as usual during anti-immigration demonstrations.     A handful of isolated incidents were also reported by the SABC across Gauteng, including a looting attempt in Hillbrow that protesters reportedly helped de-escalate, police action against a crowd in Benoni, and reports of unrest in parts of Thembisa and Soweto.   For now, the large-scale disruption many feared failed to materialise, leaving the concerns around immigration policy in the hands of government, lawmakers and the courts, rather than on the streets. Police and metro law enforcement remained on high alert across Gauteng, and motorists are urged to monitor official traffic updates in affected areas.  Follow Time Out Johannesbur