Nhlalala Mthembi

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, Parkalive 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.

A great meal doesn’t have to come with a hefty bill, and Johannesburg’s restaurant specials prove just that. Johannesburg’s restaurants are serving up weekly specials that make dining out more affordable, from two-for-one pizzas, half price pasta to cocktail happy hours.  So, whether you’re planning a quick lunch, after-work drinks or a date night, here’s where to find some of Johannesburg’s best food and drink deals. If you feel we’ve missed anything, please head over to our social pages and let us know - Facebook and Instagram. Let’s share the good deals with everyone. 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.

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

This month's fuel price changes are bringing good news for petrol motorists and bad news for diesel motorists. Petrol prices will decrease by 52 cents per litre. In contrast, diesel prices will increase by more than R1 a litre from Wednesday, 5 August, as per the new official fuel prices announced by the Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources.  As with every monthly fuel price adjustment, global oil prices and the strength of the rand play a key role in determining what motorists will pay at the pumps this month. Here’s how fuel prices will change from Wednesday, 5 August:  Petrol 93: Down 52c per litre Petrol 95: Down 52c per litre Diesel 0.05%: Up R1.38 per litre Diesel 0.005%: Up R1.23 per litre The petrol price cut means you’ll save around R26 on a typical 50 litre tank, just enough to make your next road trip or weekend adventure that little bit easier on the wallet. The outlook isn’t as positive for diesel motorists, who will be paying significantly more every time they fill up.  If you can, hold off on your next petrol stop until Wednesday, when the lower prices officially come into 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.

Women’s Month is the perfect opportunity to get together with friends and family to celebrate the women who inspire your life. While women's day takes place on 9 August (we hope you've banked your long-weekend leave, since it falls on a Sunday this year) the celebration of women has evolved into more than just a celebration of that iconic day back in 1956 when around 20,000 women marched to Pretoria’s Union Buildings to protest apartheid pass laws, declaring: “Wathint’ abafazi, wathint’ imbokodo” – you strike a woman, you strike a rock. From Women’s Day celebrations to month-long experiences - we're honouring their courage, while reminding ourselves how much work remains.  Whether you’re looking to get active, learn something new or enjoy great company, Johannesburg’s Women’s Month calendar features everything from fun runs and dance sessions to workshops and live music. From Women’s Day celebrations to month-long experiences, here’s your guide to what’s happening across Johannesburg this August. Johannesburg Women's Month Celebration  Saturday, 8 August, 10am Location: Rietvlei Zoo Farm, Alberton Cost: R150 - R300 via Webtickets  Celebrate Women’s Month with your favourite people at a picnic packed with music, dancing and feel-good vibes at Rietvlei Zoo Farm. Expect a full day of entertainment at the Johannesburg Women’s Month Celebration 2026, where you’re invited to bring your own picnic and spend the day enjoying live performances in a relaxed outdoor setting. Embrace t

Women’s Month takes centre stage this August, celebrating with a packed lineup of concerts, festivals, ballet, comedy and food-focused events. Whether you’re planning a Women’s Month outing or simply making the most of the last weeks of winter, there’s plenty of events worth adding to your calendar.  For a memorable day, head out to the Pick n Pay Wine & Food Festival at The Wanderers Club, while Cape Ballet Africa brings Swan Lake to life at the Teatro at Montecasino. Music lovers are spoiled for choice, with Liefde By Die Dam, live performances by Sjava and Lebo Sekgobela and the annual Tribute to Women celebration, August’s music lineup has every genre covered.  Families are in for a magical adventure with Worlds Away at The Cirk, comedy lovers can enjoy an evening with Riaad Moosa at Emperors Palace, and car enthusiasts can cap the month off at Festival of Motoring.  Johannesburg North Pick n Pay Wine & Food Festival  Saturday, 8 August to Sunday, 9 August, 1pm Location: The Wanderers Club, 21 North Street, Illovo Cost: R350 via Webtickets  If great food and fine wine are your idea of the perfect weekend, head over to Pick n Pay Wine & Food Festival as it returns for two days of wine tastings, delicious eats, live entertainment and watching live chef demonstrations. Explore wines from some of the country’s best producers, discover new favourites and enjoy a relaxed afternoon of tasty bites, live music and good company. Giuseppe LombardoGroup of friends toasting with wi

Looking for a special way to celebrate Women’s Month? Throughout August, every meal at Cyra is an opportunity to do just that. Every meal enjoyed at the award-winning restaurant at The Houghton Hotel this August will contribute to a meaningful cause, with 10% of the restaurant’s turnover being donated to Women For Change, a South African non-profit organisation that supports survivors of gender-based violence while campaigning for awareness and action.  ICYMI: Johannesburg restaurants win big at the 2025 Luxe Restaurant Awards Guests can also be among the first to experience Cyra’s new winter tasting menu, a six-course experience by award-winning executive chef Candice Philip showcasing the season’s finest ingredients. The menu celebrates seasonal flavours with dishes including beef fillet served with cauliflower and romesco, squid with leek, cannellini beans and chorizo, kudu served with beetroot, walnut and duck liver. Guests can also opt for a South African wine to complement each course.  SuppliedCyra's beef fillet lifted by cauliflower, romesco and the savoury depth of marmite "For me, care extends far beyond the walls of a restaurant," says Phillip. "Partnering with Women For Change gives us a special opportunity to highlight and celebrate Women’s Month in a way that truly matters — by honouring South African women while supporting an organisation that is doing the vital work of protecting, empowering and uplifting women every single day." This partnership demonstra

South Africans can now experience the internationally acclaimed Sony World Photography Awards exhibition on home soil for the first time. Opening on 15 August, the Roger Ballen Centre for Photography in Forest Town will host Decisive Moment: Sony World Photography Awards, showcasing a curated selection of award-winning images from the 2024, 2025 and 2026 editions of one of the world’s most prestigious photography competitions. Presented in partnership with Creo and the World Photography Organisation, the exhibition is the first of its kind to be shown in South Africa, showcasing powerful visual stories from photographers from across the world.  Entering its 20th edition, the Sony World Photography Awards has celebrated excellence in photography, establishing itself as one of the world’s leading photography competitions, recognising both established and emerging talent. With more than 430,000 submissions from over 200 countries and territories, the 2026 awards highlight the worldwide appeal and reach of the competition. Exploring the world through contemporary photography  On display is a diverse collection of award-winning photographs that capture moments from documentary, portraiture, wildlife, sport, landscape and creative photography. Together, the photographs capture a broad range of cultures, environments and perspectives, demonstrating the photographers' ability to document history, tell compelling stories and inspire conversation. "To bring these images to Johannesburg

Looking for things to do in Johannesburg this weekend? We’ve got you! August kicks off with a packed weekend of entertainment across Johannesburg. Whatever your plans, you’ll find no shortage of things to do this weekend, with live music, comedy, theatrical experiences, festivals and family-friendly activities happening across Johannesburg.  Weekend weather Don’t let the cold mornings keep you indoors. Johannesburg can look forward to another sunny winter weekend as temperatures will start at 4 °C before rising to a comfortable 18 °C later in the day. The clear skies provide the perfect excuse to get out and explore, but keep a jacket or jersey handy for the colder start and end to the day. There’s no need to stay indoors this weekend. Expect a weekend packed with live performances, talent shows, school battles, comedy and plenty of experiences worth adding to your plans.  Friday  Min: 4 °C  Max: 17 °C  Weather conditions: Sunny Saturday  Min: 5 °C  Max: 18 °C  Weather conditions: Sunny Sunday  Min: 8 °C  Max: 18 °C  Weather conditions: Sunny Johannesburg North Soke: Celebrate Africa  Saturday, 2 August, 1pm Location: Maracana, 58 Wierda Road East, Wierda Valley Cost: R199 - R249 via Quicket  Immerse yourself in sights, sounds and flavours of Africa at Soke: Celebrate Africa, a vibrant festival of live music, dance, fashion, food and art. Enjoy a packed programme of live performances, interactive activities and cultural experiences that invite visitors to celebrate th

Tyla is bringing the A*POP World Tour to Johannesburg. The two-time Grammy Award-winning singer and songwriter has added Johannesburg and Cape Town to her upcoming tour A*POP World Tour, giving South African fans the chance to see the global star live on home soil. The South African leg, presented by Showtime Management and Anything Goes, will see Tyla perform at Green Point Track in Cape Town on Monday, 4 January 2027, before arriving at Johannesburg’s Expo Centre, Nasrec on Saturday, 9 January 2027. The South African shows will bring Tyla’s 34-date global tour to a close, following a run of performances across Europe, North America and Africa. Fresh from the release of her sophomore album, APOP, which debuted on 24 July and features tracks such as HOT TUBS, CRAZY OF ME, IS IT LOVE and the remixed version of Liquideep’s FAIRYTALE. The tour launches in Paris in October and travels through major cities including London, Amsterdam, Berlin and other cities across Europe. From there, Tyla takes the tour to North America, performing in Chicago, Brooklyn, Toronto, San Francisco, Las Vegas, and Los Angeles, before it concludes in Africa with performances in Lagos, Cape Town, and Johannesburg. Tyla has continued to reach new career milestones in recent weeks. She celebrated the release of her album with a headline performance at NBC’s Today Citi Summer Concert series, became the first international artist to headline the halftime show at the 2026 WNBA All-Star Game, and performed in

Rocking the Daisies has been cancelled due to "unforeseen circumstances”! But fans can still look forward to seeing Isaiah Rashad perform live this October. The cancellation of the 2026 festival hasn’t affected Isaiah Rashad’s South African dates. Just hours after the announcement, IN THE CITY confirmed that Top Dawg Entertainment (TDE) rapper is set to headline two shows this October.   Rocking the Daisies issued a statement on social media confirming the cancellation of 2026 edition of the festival, stating it was beyond the organisers’ control. Ticket holders will receive automatic refunds, while organisers had announced plans to host a series of IN THE CITY events in Johannesburg and Cape Town featuring some of the artists originally scheduled for the festival. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Rocking the Daisies (@rockingthedaisies) Isaiah Rashad will be performing in South Africa for the first time!  Event details Cape Town Saturday, 3 October 2026, 12pm Venue: The Ostrich Cost: R599 via Quicket     Johannesburg  Sunday, 4 October 2026, 12pm Venue: Montecasino Cost: R599 via Quicket  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! TIME OUT CAPE TOWN RECOMMENDS: 📍 The best things to do in Cape Town🏨 The best hotels in Cape Town🍽 The best restaurants in Cape Town🛏️ Where

Rosebank Mall is set to be the new hub for gamers, skaters, creators and sports fans, as The Urban Playground makes its debut on Saturday, 1 August.  Located on level four, The Urban Playground is a multi-purpose venue that brings together gaming, sport and creativity all under one roof. The venue includes an indoor skate park, a 3v3 soccer court, an esports gaming arena, a street gallery and a dance studio, with creative studios dedicated to filmmakers, musicians, podcasters and photographers. Visitors will also find a coffee shop, co-working space, and private rooms available for meetings and events.  The official opening on 1 August will feature DJs, live entertainment and a skate competition, inviting visitors to be among the first to experience the venue.  Rosebank MallThe Urban Playground According to Rosebank Mall general manager Muhammad Varachia, The Urban Playground is intended to build on Rosebank’s reputation as a cultural and creative destination, where people can learn, create and connect with like-minded visitors. Media personality Robot Boii has joined the project as a strategic partner for the opening of The Urban Playground’s second location. Created by Adriano Franco, The Urban Playground creates a space where visitors are encouraged to discover and pursue different interests rather than focusing on just one. The Urban Playground is located on level four of Rosebank Mall and can be accessed via the rooftop entrance or via the level above Incredible Conne

Trevor Noah is once again inspiring travellers to discover South Africa with a new international tourism campaign that taps into his unique brand of award-winning humour.  The Tourism Business Council of South Africa (TBCSA) and Tourism Marketing South Africa (TOMSA) have launched Don’t Say We Didn’t Tell You, with comedian, broadcaster and Grammy winner Trevor Noah as the face of their second international tourism campaign. After the success of their first collaboration in 2023, this new campaign looks to inspire more international travellers to make South Africa their next holiday destination, with a witty walk-through of FAQs sent directly to Noah. Essentially, the campaign spotlights everything that sets South Africa apart from other countries vying for appeal, showcasing its diverse landscapes, wildlife, vibrant food scene, adventure experiences, and moving cultural heritage.   According to the TBCSA, the campaign is about more than attracting international visitors. Tourism remains one of South Africa’s most important economic sectors, supporting just under one million jobs, with one in every 18 jobs in South Africa linked to the tourism sector. Investing in tourism marketing should be seen as an investment in South Africa’s economy and it is far more than advertising, according to TBCSA chairperson Jerry Mabena. “When people think about tourism campaigns, they often think about beautiful scenery and memorable experiences. South Africa has all of that. But this campaig

Looking for things to do in Johannesburg this weekend? We’ve got you! The winter school holidays have come to an end, but there’s no shortage of things to do across Johannesburg this weekend. Whether you’re in the mood for a theatre production, a comedy show, music or a unique day out, Johannesburg’s weekend lineup has something for everyone. Forget hibernating – Johannesburg has plenty of reasons to step outside this weekend, from live music, markets, comedy and experiences that are well worth leaving the couch for.  Weekend weather It may be another beautiful winter weekend in Johannesburg, but winter is still making its presence felt. Early mornings will be 5 °C but temperatures will rise to a pleasant 19 °C in the afternoon. Take advantage of the mild winter sunshine by going out and exploring the city, but remember to layer up for crisp mornings and cool evenings. Friday Min: 5 °C  Max: 19 °C  Weather conditions: Sunny Saturday  Min: 6 °C  Max: 19 °C  Weather conditions: Sunny Sunday Min: 6 °C  Max: 18 °C  Weather conditions: Sunny Johannesburg North Wizards of AAH’s  Saturday, 25 July, 8pm Location: Hotel Sky Sandton, Infinity Auditorium, 6th Floor Cost: R250 show only, R600 Dinner & Show via Quicket Think you know The Wizard of Oz? Think again. Wizards of AAH’s gives the timeless story a mischievous, adults-only spin makeover. With its mix of camp comedy, colourful characters and plenty of cheeky humour, the show celebrates the beloved classic while turning it

One of Africa’s leading contemporary art fairs is returning to Johannesburg this spring. FNB Art Joburg will take place from 4 to 6 September 2026 at the Sandton Convention Centre, showcasing some of Africa’s most exciting artists, galleries and cultural voices. Returning for its 19th edition, the event will once again unite leading galleries, artists, collectors and cultural organisations from across Africa for a programme packed with exhibitions, installations, talks and performances. This year’s event introduces ARC, a new section highlighting artists and works that push the boundaries of contemporary African art. ARC joins the fair’s established programme, which already includes gallery HUB, gallery LAB, ORG, AUX, INK, GIF and MAX, each focusing on a different aspect of contemporary African art, offering a diverse mix of leading galleries, emerging art spaces, photography, art publications, thought-provoking talks and large-scale installations. The experience extends beyond the convention centre through Open City which returns from 20 August to 14 September, transforming Johannesburg into a citywide celebration of contemporary art across the city. The programme encourages visitors to experience Johannesburg through galleries, museums, design spaces and restaurants hosting exhibitions, performances, fashion and live music. “Johannesburg has always been a place where ambition meets possibility,” says fair director Mandla Sibeko. “We are excited to welcome audiences back thi