This Heritage Month, celebrate what it means to you to be South African with some special, heritage-themed events taking place in and around Johannesburg. Choose how to commemorate this special occasion from a selection of events that feature heritage-themed food and drink experiences, a folklore festival, heritage site tours, commemorative performances, and more.
Explore the Pretoria Vintage & Decor Show
Pretoria’s Vintage & Decor Show features over 120 stallholders selling handpicked collectables at good prices.
Visitors can browse vintage jewellery and fashion looks in great condition from a range of vendors, as stallholders are carefully handpicked by the team so that quality is ensured and prices are kept reasonably low.
Once the hunger pangs hit, head over to the selection of artisanal food trucks and stalls. Kids can run free in the outdoor space, and the market venue is wheelchair-friendly. Pets are also welcome to join, but they must be on a leash.
Cost: Free entry
When: Thursday, 24 September 2026 from 9am to 7pm
Where: Irene Village Mall, Cnr of Nellmapius Dr &, Van Ryneveld Ave, Irene, Centurion
Cheer on the Boks
The Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry tour is an historic eight-match series featuring four provincial matches and four Test matches.
The tour’s second clash features the four-time World Champion Springboks and the three-time World Champion All Blacks.
Park and Ride tickets are available.
Cost: From R1650pp – R4000pp, book online
When: Saturday, 5 September from 5.10pm
Where: FNB Stadium, Soccer City Ave, Nasrec, Johannesburg
The Parkview Heritage Festival
Hosted by the Parkview Residents’ Association, this annual festival brings everything that makes the suburb so special under a single event, from all things literature with ParkWords to kids’ fun with ParkKids, fabulous bites with ParkFood and something to sip and savour with ParkWine.
At its heart, the Parkview Heritage Festival is about bringing people together to celebrate the diversity, history and creativity of the Parkview community through books, food, wine and family entertainment.
Cost: General admission – R100 per adult; R50 per child | ParkWine tickets are R250pp and are already inclusive of entry | Lit Quiz tickets are an additional R100 | Book online
When: Saturday, 19 September 2026 from 9am to 6pm
Where: Tyrone Avenue, Parkview
Explore the Parkview Heritage Festival
Catch Anaïs Rosso at a Sankayi jazz show
Sankayi Jazz Series welcomes French artist Anaïs Rosso to Johannesburg on Heritage Day as part of its September programme and its new partnership with the Standard Bank Joy of Jazz Festival.
Rosso developed her love of performance and the unexpected through Parisian jam sessions before establishing her own studio in Belleville, Paris, where she created her first EP, Scandale au Paradis.
Her music draws on blues, singer-songwriter traditions and contemporary Afro rhythms, creating an intimate world that moves between modernity and memory, groove and incantation.
On stage, Rosso brings a deeply felt and profound musical experience, using her voice and music to tell a story. Her performance at Sankayi offers audiences the opportunity to experience her work in an intimate setting, with the music and artist at the centre of the evening.
Cost: From R400pp. It is recommended that you arrive early to have dinner (at an additional cost) before the concert. Book via Quicket
When: Thursday, 24 September 2026. Dinner and drinks open at 6pm and close at 7.30pm. Concert starts at 8pm
Where: Sankayi Restaurant & Lounge, Green Park Corner, Morningside, Johannesburg
Check out the Sankayi Jazz Series
Visit The John Kani Exhibition
Dr. John Kani is celebrated as one of South Africa’s most famous icons, and in addition to being an award-winning actor, writer and activist, he is also the chairman of the Board of Trustees at the Apartheid Museum, helping guide the institution for over 25 years.
Now, the Apartheid Museum will honour Kani’s contribution to the institution with an exhibition that revisits key moments in a stage and screen career that, over six decades, has taken him from Port Elizabeth rehearsal rooms to Hollywood studios.
Visitors can explore the drawing on images, text, artefacts, and film and other ideas that have occupied Kani on and off the stage, informing his vision as a mentor and visionary.
Cost: Entrance to the Apartheid Museum is R240pp as of 2026. Book via Webtickets
When: Running from Sunday, 30 August to Monday, 30 November. The museum is open Tuesdays to Sundays, 9am to 5pm
Where: Apartheid Museum, Northern Parkway, Gold Reef Rd, Ormonde
Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestra Symphonic Jazz Festival
In celebration of Heritage Month, the Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestra Symphonic Jazz Festival invites you to this year’s vibrant world of South African jazz. The festival takes place at the Linder Auditorium and serves a rich tapestry of jazz music that honours the country’s beautiful musical heritage.
Conducted by Daniel Boico, the programme features Duke Ellington’s Nutcracker Suite and South African jazz veteran Victor Masondo’s Quartet.
Cost: From R190pp, book via Quicket
When: Thursday, 24 September 2026, from 7pm to 9.15pm
Where: Linder Auditorium, 27 St Andrews Road, Parktown, Johannesburg
Mango Groove at the Sunset Music Series
Taking over Heritage Day weekend is Mango Groove, an 11-piece Afropop group formed in 1984 in Johannesburg by John Leyden, Andy Craggs, Bertrand Mouton, and kwela artist ‘Big Voice’ Jack Lerole.
The multi-racial group is fronted by singer Claire Johnston and famous for blending traditional township styles like kwela and marabi with pop, big brass, and penny whistle.
As they emerged during the Apartheid years, their music and multiracial lineup made them synonymous with the ‘Rainbow Nation’ idea, and their self-titled debut album, released in 1989, became a massive hit, breaking sales records in South Africa and launching the group into superstardom.
With hits like ‘Special Star’, ‘Dance Sum More’, and ‘Another Country’, the group has enjoyed over 10 number 1 hits, accumulated many awards, and continues to celebrate over 40 years of the unifying power of their music.
Cost: From R195pp, book via Webtickets
When: Thursday, 24 September from 1pm to 5pm
Where: Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden, Malcolm Road, Poortview, Roodepoort
Sunset Music Series guide
The Great Train Race
The Great Train Race, one of South Africa’s most unique heritage spectacles, returns to celebrate its monumental 11th anniversary this Heritage Month.
More than 100 vintage cars, motorcycles, aircraft, and a majestic steam locomotive will take centre stage at the 11th anniversary of the event. From the exhilarating sight of a steam train powering alongside a cavalcade of vintage cars and motorcycles, to breathtaking aerial displays and vintage aircraft, every moment is designed to captivate and inspire.
Cost: R130pp | R80pp (concessions) | R2000pp (VIP) | U12 Free | Book online
When: Saturday, 26 September from 8am to 4pm
Where: Heidelberg Airport, Heidelberg NU, Heidelberg
Explore the Great Train Race
Support the Proteas at Pink Day ODI
One of cricket’s fiercest rivalries returns to South African shores as the nation’s cricket team, the Proteas, take on Australia in the Dafabet Pink Day ODI as part of their Dafabet Test series.
The Pink Day ODI is a special annual cricket match where the Proteas wear pink kits instead of their traditional green and yellow to raise awareness and funds for breast cancer, with the proceeds and donations going directly to the Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital Breast Care Clinic, funding critical equipment, treatment, and research.
Australia last toured South Africa in 2023, delivering competitive cricket and great moments, so this tour is set to deliver another incredible contest.
Cost: From R150pp, book via Ticketpro
When: Sunday, 27 September from 10am
Where: DP World Wanderers Stadium, Corlett Dr, Illovo, Sandton
Qadasi & Maqhinga at Sankayi Saturday Sessions
Sankayi Saturday Sessions is a brand-new recurring live music series, showcasing some of South Africa’s finest contemporary musicians and bands.
The September iteration features a performance from Qadasi & Maqhinga. Hailing from the heart of Zululand, David “Qadasi” Jenkins and Maqhinga Radebe are a SAMA-winning duo who blend authentic Zulu music with Western folk influences.
Cost: R400pp. Book via Quicket
When: Saturday, 26 September from 6pm to 11pm
Where: Sankayi Restaurant & Lounge, Green Park Corner, Morningside, Johannesburg
Kasi Republic Heritage Fest
The Kasi Republic Heritage Fest is a vibrant celebration of South African heritage, music, and true kasi culture.
Catered to the Youth Endala who grew up with the soundtrack of iKasi, the festival brings together Kwaito legends Alaska, Mzambiya, Msawawa, and Zola for an unforgettable live experience.
Cost: R260pp | R800pp (VIP), book via Ticketpro
When: Thursday, 24 September from 12pm to 10pm
Where: Riversands Farm Village, Rose Rd, Knopjeslaagte, Midrand
Dine at Chiefs Boma at Indaba Hotel
The 300-seater Chief’s Boma African Dining Experience Restaurant caters for all tastes and brings the flavours of Africa straight to your table. The cuisine is truly African, from the North African Moroccan dishes to koeksisters and melktert from the Cape. With over 120 dishes available, everyone will find their favourite.
The Boma also does a Shisa Nyama grill where chefs prepare your preferred cut of meat, carefully selected by our on-premises butcher, to your specifications. Enjoy sundowners or craft beer on the deck overlooking the Boma Dam before sitting down to enjoy your meal to the sounds of the Resident African Marimba Band – and when all is done, enjoy a glass of red wine or roast a marshmallow over Boma Fire.
Cost: R395pp Monday to Friday. R415pp, Saturday to Sunday. Book online or via [email protected]
When: Lunch service from 12pm to 2:30pm weekly, and 12pm to 3pm on weekends. Dinner service from 6pm to 10pm
Where: Chiefs Boma Restaurant at Indaba Hotel, cnr. William Nicol & Pieter Wenning Road, Fourways, Johannesburg
Explore African restaurants to eat at
Explore the Wits Sterkfontein Caves
The world-renowned Wits Sterkfontein Caves reopened to the public on 15 April 2025, marking a new chapter for one of humanity’s most important palaeontological sites as it transitions to full management under Wits University.
Tourists and curious minds alike can book a tour of this important Heritage Site and explore ancient fossils, delve into the mysteries of human evolution, and more!
Cost: R150pp for adult. R100pp for pensioners (60+ years). R125pp for kids aged 6 to 18 years. Free entry for kids u/6 + on birthdays. R80pp for Museum and prep lab tour only | Book via Webtickets
When: Tuesday to Sunday (Closed Mondays). Tours depart hourly from 9am to 4pm (Last tour departs at 4pm)
Where: Wits Sterkfontein Caves, Kromdraai Rd, Johannesburg
Standard Bank Joy of Jazz
Standard Bank Joy of Jazz, Africa’s premier jazz festival, takes place at the end of Heritage Month, celebrating local and international jazz icons.
Over two fun-filled days, across multiple stages, jazz lovers are reintroduced to the music, while novices discover the magic of jazz.
This year’s programme features a mix of international and South African artists across four stages, with Grammy-winning Beninese musician Angélique Kidjo leading the international bill and joined by Kamasi Washington, who makes his Joy of Jazz debut.
The South African jazz artists performing at the festival include Thandiswa Mazwai, Judith Sephuma, McCoy Mrubata, Khaya Mahlangu, and Ndabo Zulu.
Cost: R1500 (day pass) | R2250 (weekend pass). Book online
When: Friday, 25 September 2026 from 6.30pm to 12.00am, Saturday, 26 September 2026 from 6.30pm -12.00am
Where: Sandton Convention Centre, 161 Maude Street, Sandton, Johannesburg
Dine at Dikeme Farms Fire Long Table Lunch
The Dikeme Fire Long Table Lunch series returns for another instalment, inviting guests to enjoy a unique long table group dining experience in the Cradle of Humankind.
Guests are seated at long tables, encouraging connection and conversation, whilst enjoying bubbly and canapés before taking in a beautiful first course, followed by a main course featuring fire-to-table cooking techniques.
All meals are paired with a selection of the finest South African wines to emphasise flavour further. A sommelier guides guests through premium wine pairings from the Cape Winelands, complemented by live musicians performing throughout the experience. This summer fire, long-table lunch experience is designed for intimacy, warmth, connection and unforgettable flavours.
Cost: R3000pp. Book online.
When: Sunday, 20 September from 12.30pm
Where: Dikeme Farms, Cnr R563 &, Hartbeeshoek road, Muldersdrift
Ethnikids African Storytelling Festival x Book Drive
Ethnikids is a women-owned online bookshop that specialises in inclusive and diverse children’s books in all official South African languages. The organisation also works to address South Africa’s literacy crisis by allowing children and families to engage with authors and storytelling.
Alongside the NIROX Foundation, the event invites families to enjoy a relaxed day outdoors with hourly book readings from the very best local authors, as well as author book signings, children’s books available for purchase and book donations.
Guests are also encouraged to share the love of literature by bringing pre-loved children’s books to donate and purchase for the support of Learn Project SA.
Cost: R150pp | R80pp (kids). Book via Howler
When: Saturday, 26 September from 10am to 5pm
Where: NIROX Sculpture Park, Nirox Sculpture Park. R540 Kromdraai Rd
Support the Proteas at Pink Day ODI
One of cricket’s fiercest rivalries returns to South African shores as the nation’s cricket team, the Proteas, take on Australia in the Dafabet Pink Day ODI as part of their Dafabet Test series.
The Pink Day ODI is a special annual cricket match where the Proteas wear pink kits instead of their traditional green and yellow to raise awareness and funds for breast cancer, with proceeds and donations going directly to the Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital Breast Care Clinic, funding critical equipment, treatment, and research.
The Pink Day ODI is a one-off one-day international, and fans, players, and survivors fill up the dressed in pink.
Cost: From R150pp, book via Ticketpro
When: Sunday, 27 September from 10am
Where: DP World Wanderers Stadium, Corlett Dr, Illovo, Sandton
Learn the Mandela family history and legacy at Mandela House
Built in 1945, Mandela House was commissioned as part of a Johannesburg City tender for new houses in Orlando.
Whilst tiny in structure, its testimony of the family’s struggles for a free South Africa is large. In 1999, the house was awarded the status of a public heritage site, with Nelson Mandela as the Founder Trustee.
Now, the house is fitted with a visitor centre and exhibition installations designed specifically for the preservation, presentation, and research of the historical heritage and Mandela family legacy. Stop by and travel back in time, becoming immersed in the memory of one of South Africa’s most important struggle journeys.
Cost: R40pp to R180pp | Free (children u/7)
When: Monday to Sunday, 9am to 4.45pm
Where: 8115 Vilakazi St, Orlando West, Johannesburg
Sunday Society Picnic – Heritage Edition
Make it a heritage weekend to remember and treat yourself and a loved one to a relaxing, dreamy Sunday picnic experience with bubbles in hand.
The experience includes a welcome glass of Graham Beck bubbly to toast the special people in your life, a gourmet picnic basket packed with indulgent treats, hot food selections for an elevated dining experience, and live entertainment.
With a dress code encouraging guests to come in their heritage best, this event is more than a picnic but rather a celebration of identity, unity, and unmistakable local flair in the heart of Sandton.
Cost: R875pp | R1750 per couple | R3690 (room and picnic combo per couple sharing). Book via Quicket
When: Sunday, 27 September 2026 from 1pm to 6pm
Where: The Maslow Hotel conference area, 146 Rivonia Rd, Sandown, Sandton
More on the Sunday Society Picnics
Italian Sporting Club Presents: Sagra
Bring the whole family and enjoy an unforgettable day filled with authentic Italian food, drink, culture, and entertainment. Expect delicious Italian food stalls featuring top Italian restaurants from Johannesburg and Pretoria and a variety of vendors offering Italian fashion, leather goods, shoes, toys, and artisanal gifts.
Cost: From R90pp | From R60pp for u/12s. Book via Quicket.
When: Sunday, 27 September from 9am to 6pm
Where: Italian Sporting Club, 7 Marais Rd, Bedfordview, Germiston
Spring/Summer Editon of KAMERS/Makers Market
This spring, the KAMERS/Makers market returns to Pretoria, allowing guests to shop bold fashion, inspired homeware, original gifting, and artisanal food, all in an open-air setting buzzing with energy, music and design, making this SA’s biggest, brightest and best array of proudly local artisan talent.
From fashion to footwear, skincare to ceramics, craft gin to jewellery, plus decor, accessories, deli delights and much more, you’ll be amazed by the variety and world-class quality being produced right here at home.
Cost: R110pp for a single-day pass. R150pp for a multi-day pass. Free for u/18s | Book online
When: Wednesday, 23 September to Sunday, 27 September from 9am to 5pm daily
Where: Menlyn Maine, 180 Amarand Ave, Waterkloof Glen, Pretoria
Find out more about the market
World’s Biggest Braai
3000 proud South Africans will spend Heritage Day around the fire to claim the Guinness World Record™ title for the most people grilling/barbecuing simultaneously.
Each braai ticket, which also includes vegetarian and halaal options, provides a portion of wors to braai, a fresh roll/pap, a branded apron to keep, a pair of tongs to keep, and access to a braai station, prelit and ready for cooking. From 10am, all 3,000 participants will braai together in what is the biggest public braai the world has ever seen.
After the braai, the day transforms into a full Heritage Day festival experience with live performances from award-winning South African artists like Mafikizolo, Shekinah, Matthew Mole, Lady Zamar and more. There’s also a beer garden and access to a wide variety of food trucks and drink vendors, family-friendly zones with chill areas and entertainment, and brand activations filled with games, prizes, and fun.
Cost: From R255pp (includes Halaal and Vegetarian) | From R205pp (U12), book via Howler
When: Thursday, 24 September from 9am to 8pm
Where: Loftus Versfeld Stadium, 416 Kirkness Street, Arcadia, Pretoria
Hindu Cultural Festival of South Africa
The Hindu Cultural Festival of South Africa brings a day of music, dance, culture, food, and family fun.
More than a festival, the day is a celebration of heritage, unity, and joy. From traditional performances to modern beats, food stalls indoors and outdoors to fashion shows, there’s something for everyone.
It’s a great event for family and friends, and it’s a celebration of community spirit, honouring the vibrant Hindu culture under one roof.
Cost: R90pp | R60pp (pensioners) | Free U12. Book via Howler
When: Saturday, 12 September from 10am to midnight.
Where: Heartfelt Events Arena, 1000 Voortrekker Rd, Thaba Tshwane, Pretoria
Explore the Majakaneng Heritage Hiking Trails
The Majakaneng Heritage Hiking Trails start at the edge of town, winding its way up to the mountain summit, where hikers can take in incredible views in all directions while walking along the ridge.
It follows a moderately challenging 10km circular hike, and other trail options include a 5km circular route that reaches the top of the first Northern ridge. There’s also an easy 3km walk through the shady forest and kloof that’s ideal for beginner hikers and kids.
Eventually, most of the route descends through a wooded kloof of magical forest trees alongside a mountain spring and stream. This kloof area is believed to hold tremendous spiritual significance to local tribes.
The trail base has basic facilities and a safe place to park your car. After your hike, catch your breath with a picnic or braai experience with friends and family.
Cost: R100pp for a ranger-guided or self-guided hike, and R40 conservation fee per car. Call Victor on 071 069 1044 or Hendrick on 067 392 1567 to book
When: Daily, from 6am to 5pm
Where: Majakaneng, near Brits, North West
The Original Oktoberfest
The Deutsche Internationale Schule Pretoria hosts their 48th annual Oktoberfest.
Inspired by the legendary Oktoberfest in München, Germany, this festival is the first and most authentic beer celebration in South Africa. Join the school, the German community, and over ten thousand guests in bringing German “Gemütlichkeit” to life under African skies.
The event also features an awesome lineup of live music to keep the atmosphere vibrant and entertaining, and Germany’s rich food culture with delicious options like Eisbein, Kassler, Bockwurst, Brezel, and more.
Cost: From R85pp | From R230pp (VIP opening night) | R385 – R981.25pp (Table) | R30pp (raffle ticket). Book via Howler
When: Thursday, 10 September from 6pm to 11.30pm. Friday, 11 September from 5pm to 11.30pm. Saturday, 12 September from 10am to 11.30pm.
Where: Deutsche Schule Internationale Pretoria, Simon Vermooten Rd, The Willows, Pretoria
