Spring has sprung, and what better way to welcome the new season than by stepping out to some of the fantastic events lined up this month in Johannesburg. This September, see classic vehicles in action and on display, taste the finest wines, see a show-stopping play or comedy special, taste delightful cuisines, catch top local and international acts live, and so much more.
Comic Con Africa 2026
Comic Con Africa, the ultimate pop culture and gaming festival, returns to the Johannesburg Expo Centre (Nasrec) at the end of August. Whether you’re a die-hard geek, a casual fan, or looking for a fun family outing, Comic Con Africa promises something for everyone across its four-day extravaganza.
Expect celebrity appearances from Alison Sealy-Smith, best known for her roles as Storm in X-Men: The Animated Series, X-Men ’97, and What If…?. There are also cosplay competitions and international cosplay artists, opportunities to stock up on merch, gaming areas, and so much more.
Cost: From R250pp (day pass) | From R750pp (four-day pass) | Celebrity sessions must be booked separately | Book via Howler.
When: Running from 24 to 27 September 2026. Thursday to Sunday, from 9am to 6pm daily
Where: Johannesburg Expo Centre, Nasrec Rd, corner Rand Show Rd, Nasrec, Johannesburg
What to look forward to at Comic Con 2026
Immerse yourself in all things art at the FNB Art Joburg fair
Africa’s leading and longest-running contemporary art fair, FNB Art Joburg, returns. Stop by to see the best in contemporary African art from across the world, engage with master print and publishing houses and art-based organisations, and attend talks, screenings, public lectures and audio essays from industry leaders.
There is also a special VIP event hosted the night before the art fair’s weekend opening that art lovers can RSVP for.
Cost: R200pp (day pass) | R400pp (weekend pass) | R1500pp (VIP RSVP: 3 Sep) | Book via TixSA
When: Thursday, 3 September to Sunday, 6 September | Thursday, 6pm – 9pm (VIP RSVP) | Friday, 12pm to 8pm | Saturday, 12pm to 7pm | Sunday, 12m to 5pm
Where: Sandton Convention Centre,161 Maude St, Sandown, Sandton
Enjoy the classic at An Ode to Motown
An Ode to Motown celebrates the sonic legacy of the iconic Motown Records with an incredibly talented cast of local performing talents.
It is a vibrant theatrical experience that takes audiences on a journey through the songs, stories and cultural impact of one of the most influential music movements in history, responsible for introducing the world to icons such as Michael Jackson and The Jackson 5, Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder, Diana Ross & the Supremes and Gladys Knight & The Pips as well as current chart-toppers Cardi B, Lil Baby, Gunna, Smino and more.
Cost: R200pp to R450pp, book via Webtickets. A 20% discount applies for group bookings of 10 or more and a 15% discount applies for family and pensioner bookings.
When: Running from 1 to 13 September 2026. Thursday to Saturday at 7.30pm; Sunday at 3pm
Where: Mandela Theatre at Joburg Theatre, 163 Civic Blvd, Braamfontein, Johannesburg
Explore an Ode to Motown
Galaxy 947 Joburg Day
The Galaxy 947 Joburg Day is an annual music festival celebrating South Africa’s finest artists under a Spring sky.
This year, Galaxy 947 Joburg Day is back, proudly painting Joburg pink and bringing fresh energy and innovation to the celebration.
Pack a picnic, round up the whole crew, and get ready to dance, sing and soak up the Joburg sun with an incredible lineup featuring Lordkez, Locnville, Sun-El Musician, DJ Zinhle, Will Linley, Cassper Nyovest, Zee Nxumalo, Mi Casa, Kabza De Small, MÖRDA, Soweto Gospel Choir and more. For that extra touch, get Chill Zone tickets each and gain access to an exclusive, 18+ only area.
Cost: R550pp | R250pp (children aged 3 to 12) | R1000pp (Chill Zone). Book via Ticketmaster.
When: 5 September 2026 from 9am
Where: Crocodile Creek, Lanseria
Feel the jazz at Standard Bank Joy of Jazz
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 bill for international artists 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
Bafunny Bafunny
Bafunny Bafunny is Trevor Noah, stepping in as Lead Curator and Captain of the SA National Team of Comedy. He is joined by Vice Captain Eugene Khoza and Coach Ntosh Madlingozi, forming a leadership trio that blends experience, cultural insight and performance credibility. The tour officially kicks off in Pretoria at SunBet Arena on 5 September 2026, before heading to GrandWest in Cape Town on 26 September 2026.
What sets this comedy project apart is its extended build-up. Running from May through to September, the festival unfolds as a season rather than a single event. Expect press conference-style announcements, “call-ups”, behind-the-scenes content and moments that mirror the structure of major sporting campaigns.
South Africa’s Festival of Comedy intends to meet audiences where they are, across live spaces, digital platforms and social moments, rather than limiting the experience to the stage.
Cost: From R465pp, book via Quicket
When: Friday, 4 September and Saturday, 5 September 2026, from 6pm to 11pm
Where: SunBet Arena, 209 Aramist Ave, Waterkloof Glen, Pretoria
Check out more comedy in Joburg
The Luxurious Marble Circus
The Luxurious Marble Circus launched with an epic, sold-out show in 2024, and they’re bringing that same energy back in September. This two-day event promises a fine dining set against an elaborate outdoor experience with spectacular theatrics and gorgeous views.
Each area of The Luxurious Marble Circus offers guests a unique experience and a lively luncheon within the different offerings of the Marble Group restaurants. The stage will come to life after dark with live performances to surprise and delight, ranging from circus acts to intimate gigs from award-winning talent, including the Scorpion Kings, hit international electronic producer Lost Frequencies, top South African Afro-house and deep house DJ Shimza, DJ Zinhle, and Sxncello.
Cost: From R990pp, book via Howler
When: Saturday, 26 September and Sunday, 27 September from 12pm to 11pm
Where: Ground the Venue, Plot 19 Driefontein Rd, Muldersdrift
Take in a historical spectacle at the Great Train Race
The Great Train Race invites history lovers to fully immerse themselves in the customs and traditions of an antiquated era, showcasing and celebrating vintage vehicles and attire. In celebration of a race between a Bentley and Le Train Bleu in 1930 from Monte Carlo to Calais, everyone dresses up in clothes and trinkets from a bygone age to enjoy the spectacle. Attendees get to experience vintage vehicle cavalcades, vintage aircraft twirling in the sky, live music, and cuisines from countries all over the world.
Cost: TBC | Book online
When: Saturday, 26 September from 8am to 4pm
Where: Heidelberg Airport, Heidelberg NU, Heidelberg
St David’s Marist Inanda presents: SpringFest
The SpringFest hosted by St David’s Marist Inanda is a big highlight among music festivals in Johannesburg. This vibrant spring event takes place in a central, secure location with excellent facilities and plenty of parking.
The exciting annual family-friendly event features a slew of local musicians, including Goodluck, DJ Zinhle, Neil Hunter, Saxby Twins and St David’s Marist Inanda Musicians.
Enjoy the Gin, Beer, and Wine Bars, feast at diverse food stalls, and browse a curated market. Little ones will love the fun-packed kiddies’ area, while teens have their own dedicated zone to chill and connect.
It’s a feel-good day of music, food, and community spirit. Save the date and join us for one of the most exciting music festivals in Johannesburg.
Cost: From R170pp to R1450pp, book via Webtickets
When: Saturday, 19 September from 2pm
Where: St David’s Marist Inanda, 36 Rivonia Rd, Sandown, Sandton
Welcome Spring with globally celebrated artists at NIROX Spring Jazz
Globally celebrated jazz artists hit the stage for this year’s NIROX Spring Jazz event.
The Epicurean Emporium and Bernie’s Bar also provide a variety of market-style gourmet cuisines and a curated selection of beverages for the event. Feel free to also indulge in nature and art whilst there.
Cost: R550pp (early bird) | R650pp – R750pp | R80pp (U12) | U2 free, book via Howler.
When: Sunday, 6 September 2026 from 10am – 6.30pm
Where: NIROX Sculpture Park, R540 Kromdraai Rd, Kromdraai, Krugersdorp
See more upcoming Jazz events
Blue Diamond Classic
The Blue Diamond Classic is an exciting road cycling race that starts and ends at the tranquil Casa Mia Country Estate.
The 93km distance can be covered individually or in tandem. The 27km distance can be participated in individually, in tandem, or on an e-bike. The race features 5 well-stocked water points, metro and well-trained Marshals as well as motorbikes according to CSA rules.
At the start/finish venue, there are food stalls, a kiddies race for kids aged 2 to 5, enough space for club gazebos and picnic blankets, and a swimming pool.
Cost: R520pp (93km); R320pp (23km). Book online
When: Saturday, 12 September from 7am
Where: Casa Mia Country Estate, Pretoria
Check out more Joburg cycling races
