Nhlalala Mthembi

You’ve scrolled Netflix long enough. There’s a lot happening in theatres this September and the line-up is far more interesting than a quick glance at a listings page might suggest.  This month’s theatre programme moves between courtroom drama, jazz, ballet and contemporary storytelling, with stories that touch on family, identity, faith and relationships. Some are big, polished productions, others are smaller shows that promise the kind of close-up theatre experience you simply can’t get from your sofa. Follow Time Out Johannesburg on Facebook, TikTok and Instagram! While you're at it, sign up for our newsletter to receive even more of the best of your city. TIME OUT JOHANNESBURG RECOMMENDS: 📍 The best things to do in Johannesburg🏨 The best hotels in Johannesburg🍽 The best restaurants in Johannesburg🛏️ Where to stay in Johannesburg📢 Latest news from Johannesburg

  If there’s one thing South Africa’s many cultures have in common, it’s knowing how to put a great meal on the table. Heritage Month feels like the perfect time to dig in. From local classics and Portuguese grills to sushi, seafood and comforting family favourites, there’s plenty to eat in and around Johannesburg this Heritage Month. These restaurant specials cover everything from affordable midweek meals and lazy Sunday lunches to date nights and big family gatherings. From Johannesburg and beyond, these are the restaurant specials worth sinking your teeth into this September. NB: Please note that these specials can change from time to time, and we have no control over if/when they do. We will do our best to keep the list as up to date as possible. Nhlalala Mthembi is a Johannesburg-based freelance journalist. He writes about culture, entertainment, and lifestyle, with a particular interest in storytelling that highlights South African experiences. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines and check out our latest travel guides written by local experts.

Few things beat spending a Sunday outdoors with live music, delicious food and Johannesburg’s crisp winter sunshine setting the scene for a laid-back day with friends and fellow festivalgoers. Year after year, Parklive has drawn music lovers to Marks Park in Emmarentia, solidifying its reputation as one of Johannesburg’s favourite outdoor music festivals. A fixture on Johannesburg’s live music calendar for more than a decade, Parklive Jozi has built a loyal following with its carefully curated mix of international artists, South African favourites and an easy-going outdoor festival experience. Back for its 13th edition on Sunday, 30 August, Parklive Jozi is promising to be another full day of live entertainment, delicious eats and a lively festival atmosphere.  Nhlalala Mthembi is a Johannesburg-based freelance journalist. He writes about culture, entertainment, and lifestyle, with a particular interest in storytelling that highlights South African experiences. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines and check out our latest travel guides written by local experts. RECOMMENDED: 📍 The best things to do in Johannesburg🛏️ Where to stay in Johannesburg🏨 The best hotels in Johannesburg🍽 The best restaurants in Johannesburg🍺 The best pubs and bars in Johannesburg

Few cities celebrate live music quite like Johannesburg. From massive festivals headlined by global superstars to celebrations of jazz, amapiano, rock, electronic music and everything in between, Johannesburg’s festival calendar caters to every kind of music lover. More than just a chance to see your favourites live, Johannesburg’s music festivals bring people through unforgettable performances, electric atmospheres and a shared love of music. Here’s your guide to the best music festivals happening in Johannesburg. Nhlalala Mthembi is a Johannesburg-based freelance journalist. He writes about culture, entertainment, and lifestyle, with a particular interest in storytelling that highlights South African experiences. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines and check out our latest travel guides written by local experts.

Women’s Month is an opportunity to celebrate the women in your life while making time for a little self-care. Across Johannesburg, restaurants, hotels and spas are celebrating Women’s Month throughout August with everything from special dining experiences and cocktail specials to luxury spa experiences.  However you choose to celebrate Johannesburg’s Women’s Month specials make it easy to enjoy everything from lunch dates, spa getaways, cocktails and afternoon tea. To help you make the most of Women’s Month, here’s our pick of Johannesburg’s top Women’s Month dining, spa and cocktail specials. Nhlalala Mthembi is a Johannesburg-based freelance journalist. He writes about culture, entertainment, and lifestyle, with a particular interest in storytelling that highlights South African experiences. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines and check out our latest travel guides written by local experts. Follow Time Out Johannesburg on Facebook, TikTok and Instagram! While you're at it, sign up for our newsletter to receive even more of the best of your city.

Norwood, tucked between Houghton, Orange Grove and Linksfield, is one of Johannesburg’s oldest suburbs, known for its rich character and vibrant atmosphere. Unlike many Joburg neighbourhoods which are celebrated for shopping or nightlife, Norwood is best known for its food scene, cultural heritage and welcoming community. Grant Avenue is the beating heart of Norwood, where cafes, bakeries, restaurants and independent businesses line the pedestrian-friendly high street, reflecting Norwood’s multicultural identity.  Whether it’s brunch, a long lunch or dinner with friends. Norwood delivers all the atmosphere of its neighbouring suburbs, but at a slower, more relaxed pace. Here’s everything you need to know before visiting Norwood. What is Norwood known for? Food is at the heart of Norwood’s appeal, making it one of Johannesburg’s best dining destinations. Norwood may have earned the nickname “Little Italy” thanks to the Italian community that settled here in the 1950s, but these days its dining scene reflects flavours from around the world.  Grant Avenue’s restaurant scene encompasses Norwood’s multicultural character, with everything from Middle Eastern eateries and Jewish delis to Ethiopian restaurants, Turkish cafes and beloved Italian favourites. Few streets in Johannesburg offer such a diverse mix of cuisines, all within easy walking distance. While food may draw visitors to Norwood, its tree-lined streets, heritage homes and welcoming community are just as much a part of

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.

With its infectious energy, memorable songs and plenty of laughs, The Big Bad Musical is guaranteed to leave audiences smiling. Performed at Roodepoort Theatre, this clever production brings together well-known fairy-tale characters for a courtroom trial where the Big Bad Wolf takes the stand to share his side of the story in a musical packed with humour, catchy songs and unexpected twists. The production keeps its momentum throughout, making the most of its clever concept. Its brisk pacing, witty dialogue and irresistibly catchy songs make it impossible not to enjoy. The songs are one of the show’s biggest strengths, leaving me wishing there was a rewind button so I could hear them all over again. They're the kind of tunes that stay with you long after the final bow. Comedy that steals the show Comedy is where The Big Bad Musical truly shines. Its humour has broad appeal, delivering jokes that resonate with audiences of all ages without ever feeling forced. One of the show’s biggest laughs comes from one of the witnesses called to testify. She refuses to sit on an ordinary chair, insisting that she needs a tuffet (a small, low foot stool) instead, sending the courtroom into a frenzy as everyone tries to find a suitable seat. But was it the seat that mattered or the testimony!?  It’s a small but memorable moment that perfectly captures the show’s infectious sense of fun. The courtroom news reports are another inspired touch, hilariously summarising the day’s proceedings while

Pantry by Marble is adding Fourways to its Gauteng footprint, with a new store coming to The View.  If you’ve been following Johannesburg’s growing premium grocery scene, you’ll likely already know Pantry for its mix of quality groceries, fresh food and places to stop for something to eat.  The new Fourways store will be part of The View, a lifestyle destination bringing a mix of restaurants, cafés and lifestyle spots to the area. Pantry will be joining Tashas, Fournos Bakery, Nonna’s Italian Grill and Clay Cafe.  This won’t be your typical grocery stop either. There’s more than just groceries on the menu, with the store set to feature an in-house butchery, bespoke bakery, speciality wines, hot meals, gourmet products and an ice cream parlour.    View this post on Instagram A post shared by Pantry, fancy but easy (@pantry_jhb) The Pantry Glow-up  The idea behind Pantry is to make a food stop feel easy, whether you’re after a ready-made meal, something fresh from the bakery or a few gourmet groceries. What started in Rosebank in 2022 as a rather fancy take on the garage shop has since grown into a familiar food and grocery name across Gauteng.  Pantry has since grown beyond Rosebank, with stores in Hazelwood and Bassonia and a pop-up currently at The MARC in Sandton. For Fourways locals, Pantry will be the kind of place where you can pick up dinner, grab fresh bread or find something a little special for the weekend. And when you’re not browsing the shops o

WhiskyBrother & Co. and The Firs in Rosebank are teaming up for an evening of tastings, rare pours and whisky discoveries. There are two kinds of people who hear that dozens of whiskies are going to be in one place. The first immediately wants to know which bottles are worth trying. The second is probably wondering what they’re supposed to do with a whisky menu that long. The Whisky Experience at The Firs is taking a more relaxed approach. WhiskyBrother & Co. and The Firs are teaming up for the event on Friday 18 September, bringing more than 30 whisky brands to Rosebank. Tasting stations will be set up across the venue, with premium and rare expressions alongside bottles from independent producers.  Here’s what you can expect You can wander between the tasting stations and decide what catches your tastebuds. If you’re new to whisky, it’s an opportunity to ask questions and try different expressions without ordering a full pour at a bar, secretly hoping you’ve made the right choice. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Pete’s Whisky, Whiskey, Bourbon and Rye (@whisky.van) If you’re already a whisky fan, there’s enough variety to keep things interesting. Stick to your usual or be adventurous and try something new. Is VIP worth it? General admission costs R390. VIP tickets cost R1500 and include access to The Atrium next to The Grillhouse, where rare whiskies will be available to taste away from the main event. For first-timers, the R390 tick

Looking for things to do in Johannesburg this weekend? We’ve got you! Last weekend may have been one for staying under the covers, but this weekend is shaping up rather differently. Johannesburg has a busy weekend ahead, with Bollywood parties, live music, food festivals, comedy and outdoor events all on the calendar. Here’s your guide to what's going on around Johannesburg this weekend.   Weekend weather After last weekend’s disappointing weather, the forecast is looking far more promising. Daytime temperatures should reach 23°C, while mornings and evenings will remain cooler at around 11°C. If last weekend’s weather put a dampener on your plans, this weekend should be a much better one for getting out and about.   Friday   Min: 12 °C  Max: 23 °C Weather conditions: Sunny Saturday   Min: 12 °C Max: 21 °C Weather conditions: Sunny Sunday  Min: 11 °C Max: 21 °C Weather conditions: Sunny Johannesburg North BollyRave Festival – Fake Sangeet  Friday 11 September, 5pm Location: Maracanà, 58 Wierda Rd, Wierda Valley, Sandton Cost: R200 - R250 via Howler  Who needs a wedding invitation when there’s a sangeet to get to this Friday? BollyRave brings the feel of a Bollywood wedding to Maracanà, with live dhol, DJs, mehndi and a soundtrack made for dancing. Bollywood favourites will keep the dance floor moving, with plenty of dramatic moves and a few improvised routines along the way. Give your Friday night a little more sparkle.   Facebook: Lee WhoBollyRave Festival Kurt Scho

Looking for things to do in Johannesburg this weekend? We’ve got you!   September’s first weekend is packed with reasons to get out and explore Johannesburg. You could spend the weekend eating and drinking, catching a show, exploring somewhere new or doing very little at all. From the city centre to the suburbs and township, here’s our guide to the weekend in and around Johannesburg.    Weekend weather   The weather isn’t exactly playing along this weekend, with an 80% chance of showers across Johannesburg from Friday through Sunday. Rain aside, it’s looking pretty cool out there, with temperatures ranging from 8 °C overnight to around 20 °C during the day. You’ll want an umbrella and a warm layer, and perhaps a Plan B for when the rain inevitably makes an appearance.     Friday    Min: 11 °C   Max: 20 °C   Weather conditions: Rainy   Saturday   Min: 8 °C   Max: 20 °C   Weather conditions: Rainy   Sunday   Min: 10 °C   Max: 18 °C   Weather conditions: Rainy Johannesburg North We Love RnB   Friday 4 September, 6pm Location: Maracanã, 48 Wierda Rd, Wierda Valley, Sandton Cost: R300 via Howler   Friday night needs a soundtrack and this is where to find it. We Love RnB’s Spring Edition brings a heavy dose of nostalgia, with classic R&B favourites and a long playlist guaranteed to have the whole room singing along. It’s ideal if you want a chilled evening out and reasons to hit the dance floor. One throwback turns into another and before long the whole room is singing

A cut-off low is expected to bring unsettled, wet and windy conditions to parts of the country from Friday, with the risk of severe thunderstorms developing over parts of Gauteng, Free State and North West from Friday afternoon into Saturday evening. According to the South African Weather Service (SAWS), the risk is expected to shift further eastwards from Sunday morning, affecting parts of Mpumalanga and KwaZulu-Natal, with the possibility of extending into southern Limpopo. What to expect this weekend? SAWS says heavy rain, strong winds, lightning and hail could accompany the storms. Downpours could leave some roads and low-lying areas waterlogged. Strong winds could bring down trees and damage property, particularly in exposed areas. The forecast could still change, with exact areas affected and the severity of the storms yet to be determined. The situation is still developing so the forecast may change as the week progresses. Residents are advised to follow the latest SAWS forecasts and warnings. Be cautious, Joburg If you’ve got weekend plans, keep an eye on the latest forecast, especially if you’ll be outdoors. Drivers should take care when the rain gets heavy, as visibility can worsen and water can accumulate on the road. Don’t risk crossing floods; turn around rather than trying to drive or walk through them. If you’re caught in a thunderstorm, get inside where you can and avoid open areas, trees and metal structures. Keep an eye on SAWS for the latest forecasts and w

Make this Heritage Day one to remember with the award-winning musical VINCENT - HIS QUEST TO LOVE AND BE LOVED, coming to Pretoria for the first time for a one-night-only performance at the Fairtree Atterbury Theatre on Thursday, 24 September. Well Kapela Productions brings Vincent van Gogh’s turbulent story to life in a captivating multimedia musical cabaret. The production looks beyond the familiar image of Van Gogh as a tortured painter, portraying instead a complex man with a deep need for creativity, connection, love and acceptance. Daniel Anderson takes centre stage, with Paul Ferreira providing live piano and Amanda Bothma writing and directing the production. Anderson guides the audience through Van Gogh’s emotional and artistic journey, weaving together reimagined musical-theatre classics with pop, rock, and jazz. It’s an intimate, genre-blending look at Van Gogh, mixing music and theatre to reveal the man behind the familiar image of the tortured artist. Supplied/Alan EasonAward-winning musical 'VINCENT - HIS QUEST TO LOVE AND BE LOVED' Since its 2022 debut, the show has been making waves on the local theatre scene. There’s plenty of buzz around the show, which has sold out seasons across South Africa, wowed London audiences with a sold-out West End debut in 2025 and earned five stars at the Edinburgh Fringe in 2023. It’s picked up plenty of recognition along the way, including six Naledi Theatre Award nominations and three wins, a Bronze Standard Bank Ovation Awa

Both grades of petrol will increase by R1.34 per litre from Wednesday, 2 September, according to the latest fuel price announcement from the Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources.  Diesel motorists are in for an even bigger shock, with prices jumping by almost R3 a litre. Here’s how fuel prices will change from Wednesday, 2 September:  Petrol 93: Up R1.34 per litre  Petrol 95: Up R1.34 per litre Diesel 0.05%: Up R2.94 per litre Diesel 0.005%: Up R3,15 per litre That puts the price of 95 petrol at R26.92 per litre, while 93 petrol will rise to R26.76 per litre. For motorists with a 50 litre tank, that’s around R67 more at the pumps than in August.  The increase largely comes as international oil prices have risen, with ongoing geopolitical tensions putting further pressure on fuel markets. The stronger rand has offered some relief but it hasn’t been enough to counter higher oil prices.  The slate levy is also going up, while a small adjustment will help cover higher wages for petrol attendants.  If you’re due for a refuel, consider doing it before  Wednesday, when the new prices take effect. Follow Time Out Johannesburg on Facebook, TikTok and Instagram! While you're at it, sign up for our newsletter to receive even more of the best of your city. TIME OUT JOHANNESBURG RECOMMENDS: 📍 The best things to do in Johannesburg🏨 The best hotels in Johannesburg🍽 The best restaurants in Johannesburg🛏️ Where to stay in Johannesburg📢 Latest news from Johannesburg

Spring has sprung in Johannesburg and September brings along plenty of reasons to get out and explore the city. From major sporting fixtures and live music to contemporary dance experiences, theatre, food and pop culture, there’s something happening across the city throughout the month. Whether you’re planning a big day out, looking for something new to try or making plans for the Heritage Day long weekend, there are some events worth adding to your calendar.  The Springboks face the All Blacks at FNB Stadium, while 947 Joburg Day, Scorpion Kings Live and GRXXVY Escape bring plenty of music to the city. FNB Art Joburg, JOMBA! and the Shakespeare Schools Festival have culture covered, while Comic Con Africa, the Soweto Kota and The Luxurious Marble Circus offer plenty of reasons to get out and explore. Whatever your idea of a good Johannesburg day out, September has something worth getting out of the house for. Check the calendar FNB Art Joburg Friday, 4 September to Sunday, 6 September, 12pm Location: Sandton Convention Centre, 161 Maude Street, Sandown, Sandton Cost: R200 Day Pass, R400 Weekend Pass via Tixsa  FNB Art Joburg returns for its 19th edition with more than 100 artists and exhibitors from 19 African countries. You’ll find established galleries alongside bold installations, emerging artists and experimental work, offering a snapshot of what’s happening across the continent’s contemporary art scene. And you don’t have to know your art to enjoy it. Discover new art

Looking for things to do in Johannesburg this weekend? We’ve got you! We’re heading into the final stretch of August, and Johannesburg is showing no signs of slowing down. The weekend is here, so why not get out and do something? Whether that means catching some live entertainment, settling in for a long afternoon with friends or trying something new, there’s plenty to keep you occupied around the city. All that’s left to do is pick a plan and make the most of it. Weekend weather Johannesburg is feeling a little cooler this week, with crisp 8 °C mornings giving way to daytime highs of around 21 °C.  Wrap up for the morning, but don’t worry about staying bundled up all day, things should warm up once the sun comes out. Keep a jacket handy, check the forecast and you’ll be set for whatever the weekend brings. There’s no shortage of plans around Johannesburg. Friday  Min: 9 °C  Max: 21 °C Weather conditions: Sunny Saturday  Min: 8 °C Max: 20 °C Weather conditions: Sunny Sunday Min: 8 °C Max: 20 °C Weather conditions: Cloudy Johannesburg North The Lion King Friday, 28 August to Saturday, 29 August, 6:30pm Location: Reddford House Northcliff, Johannesburg Cost: R130 via Quicket  The Pride Lands are coming to Northcliff, with Reddford House putting its own spin on The Lion King. It's the same Lion King you know and love, complete with Simba, Mufasa, Scar, Timon, Pumbaa and plenty of sing along songs. There’s a little extra reason to celebrate too, the production marks Reddf

There’s no mistaking a Mango Groove song. The pennywhistle gives it all away, then comes the bright brass, the rhythm and Claire Johnston’s voice. You might have grown up with Special Star or discovered Dance Sum More years later; either way there’s probably a “groove” you know by heart. That’s the thing about Mango Groove, their songs have a habit of staying in your life. This Heritage Day, the band is back at the Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden for the Sunset Music Series. Expect an afternoon of live music, dancing and the kind of nostalgia that gets people singing along. It’s hard to think of a better setting for it. How it all started in Johannesburg Back in 1984, Johannesburg was where it all began for Mango Groove. John Leyden, Andy Craggs and Bertrand Mouton were experimenting with a sound that would soon become the band’s trademark. They didn’t exactly follow the usual route, mixing pop and orchestral influences with traditional South African sounds such as marabi and kwela [a township style built around the sound of pennywhistles]. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kaaivin (@kaaivin) Meeting Kwela legend Jack Lerole by chance at Gallo Records in Johannesburg helped steer the band toward a new direction. Lerole, or “Big Voice Jack”, had already made his mark with Elias and his Zig-Zag Flutes. His influence would soon be heard in Mango Groove’s early sound. Claire joined the band at age 17, after being recommended by her singing t

You can usually spot a boardroom collaboration a mile away. K Keed and Orish’s isn’t one of them. They’re connected by more than music. Both artists grew up in the same part of Gugulethu and their friendship naturally evolved into a creative partnership. Their first collaborative project landed in 2023, and judging by the response, a second was less a decision than a matter of time. They only had to post a snippet of the lead single to learn how much people were still interested in their sound. The audience made their feelings known, and the two took the energy straight back into the studio, which resulted in uMgaranto II. The project is a reflection of where they’ve come and what shaped them along the way without making their upbringing sound bigger than it was. Instead, they look at the details; what they watched after school, how they dressed, the friends they hung out with, the mischief they got up to and the moments they still laugh about years later. Growing up in Gugulethu means there’s already plenty they don’t have to explain to each other. They share the same references and the same understanding that growing up could be messy, chaotic and completely normal. To an outsider, some of their stories sound extreme. To them, it was nothing out of the ordinary. Gallo MusicK Keed is now based in Johannesburg and Orish is still in Cape Town but the creative partnership hasn't stopped thriving. That shared understanding carries over into the music. They’ve spent enough time

There’s no shortage of inspiring women to celebrate this Women’s Month. This year, I found myself wanting to look beyond the familiar names. I cast my lens on the women closer to home – the ones who seldom get the spotlight despite building businesses, creating opportunities and making a living from their skills, ideas and passions. One name that stood out was Sphelele Nozipho Chikowi, better known as Lele, the founder of Soweto-born fashion and lifestyle brand Ntozinhle Lifestyle.   Based in Orlando West, Ntozinhle spans fashion, accessories, beadwork and homeware with South African culture and tradition woven into its design. Translating to “beautiful things” in isiZulu, Ntozinhle is a fitting name for the handmade brand, which has been creating intricate designs since 2012. What stood out to me wasn’t simply what Ntozinhle sells but how the business was conceived, and the women whose work has shaped its story along the way.    The hands behind the beads  The pieces may be what catches your eye, but for Women’s Month, it’s the people behind them who make the brand worth a closer look.   Ntozinhle’s beadwork is made by around 50 women from KwaNdebele, while young leather artisans from Vosloorus also contribute to the brand’s work. The intricate designs don’t come together overnight; a feature on the website details how some pieces take days to complete. Instagram: ntozinhle_lifestyleNtozinhle Lifestyle's handcrafted pieces ALSO READ: The story behind Sweet Savannah: Mpha-C