With warm and sunny weather predicted throughout the week, there’s no better time to step out on the town than this weekend. Experience comedy shows, a nature-inspired afternoon tea, an art and design fair, markets, music festivals, movie releases, running races and plenty more.

Sankayi Jazz Series presents Vusi Mahlasela

The October edition of the Sankayi Jazz Series welcomes legend after legend, with singer-songwriter and poet-activist Vusi Mahlasela taking to the stage for the second showcase of the month.

Simply known as “The Voice” in South Africa, Vusi Mahlasela is celebrated for his distinct, powerful voice and poetic, optimistic lyrics.

His career has taken him around the world, sharing stages with Dave Matthews Band, Sting, Paul Simon, Josh Groban, Ray LaMontagne, Natalie Merchant and Taj Mahal. In 2003, Dave Matthews signed Vusi to ATO Records, leading to the release of his music in North America.

Vusi continues to perform regularly in South Africa and internationally, presenting a special, intimate show at Sankayi to get the month into full swing.

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, 8 October. Dinner and drinks open at 6pm and close at 7.30pm. Concert starts at 8pm
Where: Sankayi Restaurant & Lounge, Green Park Corner, Morningside, Johannesburg

Design Week South Africa

Design Week South Africa returns to Johannesburg for its third year, hosting another city-wide celebration of South African creativity, design, culture and the people shaping the future of Johannesburg this weekend.

This time around, Design Week is presented in partnership with Pinterest for another showcase that brings designers, artists, architects, makers, brands, creatives and the public together across the city.

Continuing this year’s broader theme, The Shape of Us, the Johannesburg programme considers the many forms that South African design and creativity can take, and the diverse people, histories and perspectives that shape them.

Taking place across multiple venues and creative spaces, the 2026 Design Week programme explores the ideas, people and places shaping Johannesburg today – from design and craft to music, food, art, architecture, fashion and the city’s ever-evolving creative culture.

This year’s Johannesburg programme invites audiences to discover the city through a diverse collection of talks, exhibitions, installations, screenings, workshops, performances, studio visits and social experiences.

Most events are free, but an RSVP may be required to save your spot. See the full programme of events and details here.

When: Thursday to Sunday, 8 to 11 October 2026. Various times

Get a look at the Design Week programme highlights

Sankayi Jazz Series presents Afrika Mkhize

Week two of the October programme closes out with a performance by acclaimed South African pianist, composer, arranger, producer, musical director and educator Afrika Mkhize.

Mkhize boasts a career that has seen him collaborate with some of South Africa and Africa’s most celebrated artists, including Hugh Masekela, Sibongile Khumalo, Jonas Gwangwa, Oliver Mtukudzi, Vusi Mahlasela, Simphiwe Dana, Jimmy Dludlu and Judith Sephuma.

His work extends across jazz, film, hip hop and house, with Mkhize even having composed and arranged for the Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestra and Roma Philharmonic Orchestra, as well as contributing to projects including Jazz Meets Symphony, the Standard Bank Joy of Jazz and tributes to Bheki Mseleku and Letta Mbulu.

Cost: From R400pp. It is recommended that you arrive early to have dinner (at an additional cost) before the concert. Book via Quicket

When: Friday, 9 October. Dinner and drinks open at 6pm and close at 7.30pm. Concert starts at 8pm
Where: Sankayi Restaurant & Lounge, Green Park Corner, Morningside, Johannesburg

See the rest of the October jazz programme

SAADA Johannesburg Summer Fair

The SAADA Johannesburg Summer Fair returns this weekend, featuring eight of the country’s leading antique dealers. This annual fair, highly anticipated by collectors and art enthusiasts alike, showcases the exceptional talents of South Africa’s finest antique, art and design specialists.

Visitors can expect an eclectic selection, including fine Cape furniture, iconic modern designs, antique silver, mid-century furnishings, and stunning vintage jewellery. The SAADA Summer Fair will also feature a diverse range of rare coins and banknotes, bringing fascinating pieces of history to life.

For those keen on adding to their collections, the event offers a unique chance to bid on extraordinary items. 

Cost: Free entry

When: Saturday, 10 October and Sunday, 11 October. From 10am to 5pm daily
Where: 10 Bompas Hotel, 10 Bompas Rd, Dunkeld West, Randburg

Art in the Garden

The second annual edition of this charming backyard exhibition event returns this weekend.

Enter for free and explore a relaxed garden exhibition featuring a curated collection of original local and international art available to purchase. Whether you’re starting a collection, adding to one, or just looking for something you love, come and spend the morning in this intimate space dedicated to all things art.

Cost: Free entry

When: Sunday, 11 October from 8.30am to 12pm
Where: 55 6th Avenue, Parktown North

A Secret Third Thing at the Goethe-Institut

Reflective of the history of its locale, A Secret Third Thing is an excavation and a tenuous mining undergone with no clear endpoint in sight.

The secrecy the exhibition brings to question is not some retrievable piece of information, but the reckoning with a fidgety, sometimes exciting, sometimes scary and always dynamic undercurrent. This undercurrent is the haunting of a city that refuses to be continuously taken from with no recourse or consequence. 

The city refuses a position of docility. The apartment guests find themselves in is stripped of any of those homely identifying marks but holds echoes of the city, with music from the street below making its way to the fifth floor and the sound of people going about their lives.

Adopting this space in limbo, A Secret Third Thing refutes the derogatory assumptions of inner-city Johannesburg. In turn, the artists presented become active specters that talk back at the city, insinuating the idea of how we can be both the haunted and the ones who haunt in return.

Featured artists include Senzeni Marasela, Ntsako Nkuna, Simon Gush, Smiso Cele, Siyababa, Oratile Papi Konopi, Masindi Mbolekwa.

Cost: Free entry

When: Running until 10 October
Where: Goethe-Institut Johannesburg, 119 Jan Smuts Ave, Parkwood, Johannesburg

Find out what else is happening at the Goethe-Institut this month

Miriam Altman presents The Butterfly Project 

Step into the world of The Butterfly Project with jazz vocalist, songwriter and producer Miriam Altman live in concert.

Blending contemporary vocal jazz with soul, poetry, African rhythmic influences and a classical vocal foundation, The Butterfly Project traces a deeply personal journey through darkness, resilience and renewal. 

Co-produced with award-winning pianist and producer Luyanda Madope, the album features an exceptional ensemble of South African jazz musicians, including Tlale Makhene, Tendai Shoko, Dalisu Ndlazi, Sunnyboy Mthimune, Lungile Kunene and Kuki Mokubetsi.

Miriam and her ensemble are set to deliver an intimate and uplifting evening of contemporary jazz, powerful storytelling and musical transformation – celebrating both the arrival of The Butterfly Project album and an exciting new voice on the South African jazz stage.

Cost: From R350pp; from R200pp (students). Book via Quicket

When: Saturday, 10 October from 7pm to 9pm. Doors open at 6pm
Where: Wits Theatre Complex, 24 Station St, Braamfontein, Johannesburg

Dance Club presents the Dance Pawty Silent disco

Dance Club is proud to be a part of a women-only Kitty and Puppy Haven charity event: Dance Pawty happening at The Birmingham in Parkhurst.

Different from the normal Dance Club get-togethers, Dance Pawty is a Silent Disco event. Bring your friends or enjoy silently grooving on your own with a choice from three different channels offering a different vibe for every dancing queen!

Cost: From R200pp, book via Quicket

When: Sunday, 11 October from 12pm to 3pm
Where: The Birmingham, 13 4th Ave, Parkhurst, Randburg

Absa L’Atelier Art and Lifestyle Fair

The Absa L’Atelier Art & Lifestyle Fair returns for its third consecutive year this weekend in Joburg, featuring artworks by the Top 12 Finalists of the Absa L’Atelier Art 2026 Competition and live entertainment from local favourites.

Beyond the art, visitors also get to experience live entertainment throughout the afternoon. South African singer-songwriter Msaki has been announced as the headliner of the 2026 Absa L’Atelier Art and Lifestyle Fair, bringing her distinctive voice to Waterfall City Park.

She is joined by the three-time Grammy Award-winning Soweto Gospel Choir and R&B artist Elaine, adding a powerful live music line-up to a fair celebrating 40 years of Absa L’Atelier Art. 

Cost: From R350pp; R175pp (buy one, get one free); kids enter free. Book via Howler

When: Saturday, 10 October from 10am to 5pm
Where: Waterfall City Park, Entrance 26, Mall of Africa, Cnr Karkloof Cres &, Lisbon Ln, Waterval 5-Ir, Midrand

Meet the artist finalists

Unmasking the Artist at Native Rebels Soweto with Labdi

Labdi is a trailblazing Kenyan musician, cultural operator and brand innovator dedicated to elevating contemporary African identity. Operating at the intersection of culture, business, and community, she builds high-impact platforms that challenge traditional boundaries.

As one of East Africa’s pioneering Orutu players, her sound fuses Ohangla, Taarab, and Benga with experimental folk and soul textures. A speaker, thought leader, and composer, Labdi champions sustainable cultural ecosystems and uncompromising creative narratives.

In this concert, Labdi is accompanied by bassist Blessing (@bleee.t); jazz composer, guitarist, touring musician and scholar Vuma Levin; and singer, percussionist, teacher, creator and theatre-maker Mpumi Nhlapo (aka Mamadruma).

Curating the vibes on the decks are Iamsiwas, Nativ Selct and DJ Zu.

Cost: From R100pp, book via Quicket

When: Saturday, 10 October from 6pm to 11pm
Where: Native Rebels, 1345 Kadebe St, Jabavu, Soweto

The Social Reckoning releases in cinemas

Expanding on the world David Fincher built in his award-winning The Social Network is The Social Reckoning starring Mikey Madison (Anora), Jeremy Strong (Succession), Jeremy Allen White (Shameless, The Bear), Wunmi Mosaku (Sinners) and more.

The film follows Frances Haugen (Madison), a young Facebook engineer, who enlisted the help of Jeff Horwitz (White), a Wall Street Journal reporter, to blow the whistle on the social network’s most guarded secrets.

When: The film opens in cinemas on 9 October 2026
Where: The Social Reckoning will be available to watch in Ster Kinekor, Nu Metro and CineCentre cinemas nationwide

The Town Square Night Market

The Town Square Night Market promises a night of fun-filled family entertainment, delicious food, tasty drinks, and a combination of live music and DJs.

Under shimmering fairy‑light installations and amidst cobbled‑style paving, visitors can explore over 100 stalls featuring gourmet food trucks, craft vendors, drink bars, live music and DJ sets, creating a festive atmosphere designed to delight all ages.

Cost: Free entry

When: Friday, 9 October from 4pm to 9pm
Where: The Town Square at Newmarket, Ext. 15, Internal Roads, Cnr Elevation Street and Sea Cottage Street, Newmarket Park, Alberton

The Jacaranda Afternoon Tea at Four Seasons Hotel The Westcliff 

Each spring, Johannesburg’s streets take on a soft purple haze almost overnight. Elevated on the Westcliff ridge, the hotel offers one of the city’s most enviable vantage points from which to witness the transformation.

Served in the Lobby Lounge & Bar overlooking Johannesburg’s urban forest, the Jacaranda Afternoon Tea invites guests to pause and take in the season while enjoying a menu inspired by its colours and character.

Chef Jacobs has built the 2026 menu around the fruits that share the blossom’s palette. Blueberry, blackberry, blackcurrant and cherry feature throughout the sweet selection, while savoury offerings include beetroot-cured salmon, warm butter chicken pies and classic afternoon tea favourites.

Throughout the season, Flames introduces a limited-edition cocktail menu celebrating Johannesburg’s most colourful time of year. Two seasonal cocktails sit alongside the tiers, offering a spirited alternative to the traditional bubbles pour.

Cost: R650pp, including a glass of South African Méthode Cap Classique. There is also a Champagne Jacaranda Afternoon Tea at R950pp, including a glass of Moët & Chandon Champagne. Book via email [email protected] or call 011 481 6190

When: Running from 1 October to 30 November. Every Friday to Sunday, with seatings at 12pm and 3pm
Where: Four Seasons Hotel The Westcliff, 67 Jan Smuts Ave, Westcliff, Johannesburg

Tony releases in cinemas

Tony is a biographical drama about the early life of world-renowned chef and beloved travel documentarian, Anthony Bourdain.

Dominic Sessa, the breakout star of The Holdovers, plays a 19-year-old Anthony Bourdain who travels to Provincetown and stumbles into the chaotic world of a restaurant kitchen, setting off a summer that will shape the course of his life.

When: The film opens in cinemas on 9 October 2026
Where: Tony will be available to watch in Ster Kinekor, Nu Metro and CineCentre cinemas nationwide

More movies to catch in Joburg cinemas

Carnival of Kindness

Unity in Action presents the second annual Carnival of Kindness, a carnival-themed fundraiser event hosted at the Johannesburg Zoo, where all net profits and proceeds raised are donated to Charity Week for orphans and children in need.

Expect carnival games for various ages, exciting prizes to be won, halaal food and drinks, an exclusive scavenger hunt (limited tickets available) and a beautiful outdoor space to chill and enjoy the day. And the best part? Each ticket includes entrance to the Zoo!

So, you can explore the Zoo, check out the animals, then pop over to the carnival lawn to play some games, grab some food, win some prizes and have a whole lot of fun.

Cost: R100pp (adult) | R70pp (kids and seniors) | R350 (for a family of 4) | R450 per team of 4 (Scavenger hunt) | Book via email at [email protected] or call 081 420 2071

When: Sunday, 11 October from 10am to 5pm
Where: Johannesburg Zoo, Shop U 30 Keyes and Jan Smuts, Park Ave, Rosebank, Johannesburg

Back to the City Festival

The annual Hennessy Back To The City Festival returns for its 20th edition, featuring local and international artists, including iconic Detroit hip-hop group Slum Village and hip-hop icon Ab-Soul.

Also on the lineup are international acts Blu and Exile, as well as local acts Cassper Nyovest, Blxckie, Stogie T, Reason, Tuks, Loatinover Pounds, Mfana Touchline, Trompies, DJ Speedsta, Kyotic, Nutty Nys, Kitchen Mess and so many more.

Back to the City is a unique annual youth event that has grown into the largest public display of both commercial and underground hip hop in Africa, presenting a day of live music, street art, break-dancing, art installation, skateboarding, film, street fashion, gaming, speakers and panel discussions.

The festival features 80 stalls, 100 artists, and more.

Cost: R200pp to R1000pp (general access); R1500pp to R2500 (VIP); R10000 to R30000 (VIP Tables). Book via Webtickets.

When: Saturday, 10 October from 12pm
Where: Mary FitzGerald Square, 120 Lilian Ngoyi St, Newtown, Johannesburg

Check out more wine events in Joburg

An Idiot’s Guide To Wine

An Idiot’s Guide to Wine is an Australian 70-minute sensation that blends comedy with wine tasting.

The event features a professional stand-up comedy show paired with a curated tasting of six completely different wines from around the globe. The show is written by Merrick Watts, who holds a WSET (Wine & Spirit Education Trust) Level 3 qualification, which means that guests receive real knowledge about wine while enjoying the comedy show.

The ticket provides access to the stand-up show and to all six distinct wine samples. There are non-alcoholic alternatives available for an additional fee.

Cost: R610pp to R810pp, book online

When: Friday, 9 October from 6pm and 8.30pm
Where: Hard Rock Cafe, 10 & 10A, Mandela Square, 8 Maude St, Sandown, Sandton

The TINMAN Tri-Series

The TinMan Tri-Series is South Africa’s premier family-friendly triathlon, back at Prime View Adventure & Leisure in Olifantsfontein.

With five thrilling events scheduled throughout 2026, this series offers an unparalleled opportunity for families, friends, and corporate teams to engage in health, camaraderie, and community spirit.​ The series features a variety of events tailored to different skill levels, which include:​

• Mini Triathlon: 200m Swim / 6km Cycle / 2.5km Run (suitable for ages 8+)
• Super Sprint Triathlon: 400m Swim / 10km Cycle / 2.5km Run (suitable for ages 12+)
• Sprint Triathlon: 750m Swim / 20km Cycle / 5km Run (suitable for ages 15+)
• Sprint Duathlon: 5km Run / 20km Cycle / 2.5km Run (suitable for ages 16+)
• Challenge Triathlon: 1.2km Swim / 40km Cycle / 10km Run (suitable for ages 16+)​

Cost: From R285pp | Enter online before Thursday, 8 )ctober

When: Sunday, 11 October. Registration opens from 5.45am to 7am on race day
Where: Prime View Adventure & Leisure, Southward Dr, Olifantsfontein 410-JR, Olifantsfontein

Alfred Adriaan presents Positive Strokes

Alfred Adriaan returns to Joburg’s comedy scene with Positive Strokes, a brand-new stand-up show diving into the chaos, humour and everyday realities of modern fatherhood. Known for his storytelling style and sold-out performances across South Africa and abroad, Alfred once again turns ordinary life moments into sharp, laugh-out-loud comedy that resonates with audiences of all ages.

In Positive Strokes, he reflects on parenting, marriage, family dynamics and the often hilarious contrast between different generations and approaches to raising children. Alfred finds comedy in the small frustrations and absurdities of everyday life, making audiences feel like they’re laughing through familiar conversations with friends and family.

Cost: From R150pp to R225pp, book via Webtickets

When: Running from 7 to 11 October, various times
Where: Pieter Toerien Theatre at Montecasino, Montecasino Blvd, Fourways, Johannesburg

Field Market

This monthly, child-friendly market takes place outdoors and features curated stalls selling local and handmade products.

The market is perfect for the whole family, with live music, gourmet food and beverage stalls, and a large kids’ play area featuring a free nature scavenger hunt and paid activities like horse rides and ceramic painting.

Cost: Free entry

When: Saturday, 10 October from 9am to 3pm
Where: Field & Study Park, 11 Louise Avenue, Parkmore, Johannesburg

See more markets happening this weekend

Last shows! Prima Facie at The Market Theatre

Following a successful run in London where it was nominated for (and won) multiple prestigious awards, Suzie Miller’s Prima Facie made a South African debut this spring, and this weekend marks the final shows of the season.

Prima Facie follows Tessa, an ambitious barrister who has worked her way to the very top of her profession, becoming a champion of the judicial system in the process.

But, following a brutal attack against her, Tessa’s ideas about justice and the integrity of the law are entirely challenged. As she herself is put on trial, retraumatised by her attack, questioned and cross-examined in the same ways that she has questioned others, she is forced to reevaluate her beliefs.

Prima Facie is a hard-hitting look at the “patriarchal power of the law” where the burden of proof and existing rules of evidence often work against victims of sexual violence.

Cost: R140pp to R220pp (half-price Wednesdays); R50pp (50th Year – code required). Book via Quicket

When: Running from 17 September to 11 October (extended for a week) | Wednesday to Friday at 7pm; Saturday at 3pm and/or 7pm; Sunday at 3pm
Where: Barney Simon at The Market Theatre, 138 Lilian Ngoyi St, Newtown, Johannesburg

You Must Be Kidding Me??

RADA proudly presents “You Must Be Kidding Me??”, a two-night comedy spectacular this weekend.

Following a series of sold-out shows, and last years success at the Teatro, this year’s event features another stellar lineup ‘bringing you the funny’, including SA comedy legends Alan Committie, Bongani Dube, Dave Levinsohn, Mark Banks, Ndumiso Lindi, Kurt Schoonraad and Celeste Ntuli.

While the show promises an evening of laughter and entertainment, the heart of this event lies in its mission. Proceeds from “You Must Be Kidding Me??” will go towards the RADA MiPad Project, an initiative that provides sustainable, reusable sanitary wear to young girls who can’t afford these monthly necessities.

The ultimate aim is to empower, educate, restore dignity and boost self-esteem by providing them with a small item that makes a big difference.

Cost: R250pp, book via Webtickets

When: Friday and Saturday, 9 and 10 October. From 7.30pm both evenings
Where: Teatro at Montecasino, Teatro Road, 1 Montecasino Blvd, Fourways, Johannesburg

Book for more Laugh Out Loud moments

The Zoo Trot monthly run at Johannesburg Zoo

The monthly Zoo Trot at Johannesburg Zoo is a monthly social running event that blends the beauty of wildlife with wellness. This 5km or 10km fun run or walk winds through peaceful zoo paths and is open to all ages.

It’s an early start on a weekend morning, perfect for getting active before the day begins. At just R78 per person, it’s affordable enough for the kids, friends, and family to join.

Cost: From R78pp, book via Webtickets

When: Every Second Sunday of the month, from 7am
Where: Johannesburg Zoo, and Shop U 30 Keyes, Jellicoe Ave, Rosebank, Johannesburg

Men In Heels Walk-a-thon for Cancer

The Men In Heels Walk-a-thon for Cancer is an opportunity for men to raise awareness for breast and prostate cancer by strutting their stuff in heels.

According to the Breast Health Foundation (South Africa) it is estimated that South Africa has the highest incidence of male breast cancer in the world with 1-3% of all breast cancer cases occurring in men. This is an opportunity for men to, quite literally, put themselves in women’s shoes in the name of a good cause.

The Walk-a-thon also features professionals who provide tips on how to self-examine at home and what symptoms to look for in order to detect potential cancers early.

Cost: Free (in heels); from R200pp (not in heels). Book via Quicket

When: Saturday, 10 October from 9.30am to 2pm
Where: Cedar Square, Cedar Rd, Fourways, Johannesburg

Pretoria Pride

Pretoria Pride returns for its 14th annual celebration.

Celebrate queer identity with other members and allies of the LGBTQIA+ community. Walk with pride and march for love as artists and DJs keep the vibes alive throughout the day.

Expect a full day of live entertainment, DJs, Pride celebrations, food, local vendors, community organisations, giveaways and the Pretoria Pride Parade, all surrounded by thousands of people coming together for one big Pride Day in Centurion.

Cost: R65pp; R160pp (VIP). Book online

When: Saturday, 10 October from 9am. March starts at 12pm
Where: Centurion Rugby Club, West Ave, Die Hoewes, Centurion

Kloof Night Market

The Kloof Night Market has local creators and artisans showcasing their absolute best handcrafted street food and unique crafts.

Beyond delicious, authentic, locally made dishes, the market is also a great way to unwind and catch up with friends while the kids enjoy a full evening of entertainment, featuring jumping castles and more.

Cost: R30pp; R10pp (U18 and pensioners)

When: Friday, 9 October from 5pm to 10pm
Where: CBC Old Boys, Groenkloof, 75 Totius Rd, Pretoria